How to Make a Great Self-Taped Audition

In today's casting world, self-taped auditions are more common than in-person ones. This is especially true here at DC Brandon Films where I always rely on self-taped auditions. They are just super efficient and allow for more people to submit from the comfort of their own home. Whether you're submitting for a short film, commercial, or fashion campaign, your self-tape is your first—and sometimes only—shot at landing the role. That means your tape needs to be clear, confident, and professional.

Here’s your no-nonsense guide to nailing your next self-tape audition, with 8 tips that directors like myself actually care about.

1. Use What You Have - Cell Phone is Fine

You don't need to worry about the quality of your video that much. Most people film their auditions on a cell phone. And don't worry about editing the video or adding any effects. Just hit record. 2. Dress for the Role

You don't need complete hair and wardrobe to match, but if you have anything in your closet that remotely resembles what your character might be wearing in the film, it can help give off the impression that you are a good fit for the character. If all else fails, a white t-shirt is fine. 3. Film in a Well Lit Area

You don't need pro video lighting, but try and make sure your face has light on it. Too many self-tapes are submitted where it's hard to see the actor's face. 4. Include a Slate at the Beginning It's always a good idea to do a little self introduction before you jump into your audition. Name, age, union or non union, city, role applying for etc. It's not an absolute must have though. 5. Rehearse Before You Record

I think it is a smart idea to try and memorize your scene before submitting. Some people read off the script, which isn't a deal breaker but it does seem more impressive when an actor can showcase a bit more depth in their audition. Most of my auditions are only a few lines long, no stress to it. 6. Get Emotional

This is honestly huge to me. It's important to get into the emotional headspace of the character in the scene you are doing for the audition. Directors like to see emotion, always. It doesn't need to be over the top, but the director should feel something when they watch your performance. 7. Understand The Role The biggest tip of all. Try and understand the role before you do anything else. Who is this character? What do they believe? What do they want? What are they scared of? Even if your assumptions are slightly off, it's okay for an audition. Just as long as you feel like you are inhabiting an actual character when you perform. 8. Submit on Time Pretty self explanatory. Take note of the deadlines. Nothing sadder than doing all the work of creating a self-tape and finding out the auditions have closed.

This is Indie Film, Not Hollywood

Your self-tape doesn’t need to be Hollywood-level—it just needs to feel honest, watchable, and authentic. Practice a few takes, get comfortable in front of the camera, and most importantly—be okay with being imperfect. We ALL are. The more you relax and own it, the more likely you are to get that callback.

📥 Ready to Submit?

Casting calls for actors 👉 dcbrandonfilms.com/actorswanted

Casting calls for models 👉 dcbrandonfilms.com/modelswanted

Good luck, and break a leg!