If you want to pursue a career in acting, you need to master the use of the latest technology that supports your craft. One of the most essential skills is self-taping, which allows you to showcase your talent and professionalism in auditions. To create a high-quality self-tape, you need the right equipment and software. Here are some of the items that we recommend for your self-tape setup:
- Tripod/Phone Mount for your phone: You don't need an expensive camera to record your self-tapes. Your smartphone can do the job, as long as you have a good tripod and a phone mount to hold it securely. A tripod will help you adjust the height and angle of your phone, so you can capture your best performance. A phone mount will make it easy to attach and detach your phone from the tripod, so you can start and stop recording without any hassle.
- Pop-Up Background: A simple way to make your self-tape look more professional is to use a blue backdrop that eliminates any distractions from your surroundings. We suggest getting a pop-up background that is lightweight and portable, so you can set it up and take it down in minutes. You can store it in a closet or under your bed when not in use, and bring it out whenever you need to film.
- Editing Software: Sometimes, you may need to edit your self-tape before sending it to casting directors. For example, you may need to add a slate or combine different takes into one file. To do this, you need a reliable editing software that is easy to use and compatible with your device. There are many options available, some of them are even free. One of the most popular ones among Actors Connection members is IMOVIE, which you can find for free on most Apple devices.
- Lights: Lighting is crucial for creating a good impression with your self-tape. You want to avoid any shadows or glare on your face that might affect your expression or mood. You can start by using regular lamps from your house, but eventually, you may want to invest in some professional lighting equipment that can enhance your appearance and make you stand out. Here is a great kit that can help you achieve that.
- Lapel Microphone: Another important aspect of self-taping is sound quality. You want to make sure that your voice is clear and audible, without any background noise or distortion. A lapel microphone can help you improve your sound quality by picking up your voice directly from your chest, while filtering out any unwanted sounds. Make sure that the microphone you choose is compatible with the device you record on. Here is an option that syncs with an iphone.
These are some of the equipment suggestions that we have for you to create amazing self-tapes. We hope this helps you prepare for your auditions and land your dream roles!
- Tripod/Phone Mount for your phone: You don't need an expensive camera to record your self-tapes. Your smartphone can do the job, as long as you have a good tripod and a phone mount to hold it securely. A tripod will help you adjust the height and angle of your phone, so you can capture your best performance. A phone mount will make it easy to attach and detach your phone from the tripod, so you can start and stop recording without any hassle.
- Pop-Up Background: A simple way to make your self-tape look more professional is to use a blue backdrop that eliminates any distractions from your surroundings. We suggest getting a pop-up background that is lightweight and portable, so you can set it up and take it down in minutes. You can store it in a closet or under your bed when not in use, and bring it out whenever you need to film.
- Editing Software: Sometimes, you may need to edit your self-tape before sending it to casting directors. For example, you may need to add a slate or combine different takes into one file. To do this, you need a reliable editing software that is easy to use and compatible with your device. There are many options available, some of them are even free. One of the most popular ones among Actors Connection members is IMOVIE, which you can find for free on most Apple devices.
- Lights: Lighting is crucial for creating a good impression with your self-tape. You want to avoid any shadows or glare on your face that might affect your expression or mood. You can start by using regular lamps from your house, but eventually, you may want to invest in some professional lighting equipment that can enhance your appearance and make you stand out. Here is a great kit that can help you achieve that.
- Lapel Microphone: Another important aspect of self-taping is sound quality. You want to make sure that your voice is clear and audible, without any background noise or distortion. A lapel microphone can help you improve your sound quality by picking up your voice directly from your chest, while filtering out any unwanted sounds. Make sure that the microphone you choose is compatible with the device you record on. Here is an option that syncs with an iphone.
These are some of the equipment suggestions that we have for you to create amazing self-tapes. We hope this helps you prepare for your auditions and land your dream roles!