Let’s be actual: Zoom auditions aren’t going anyplace. What began as a pandemic workaround has now turn out to be a everlasting fixture within the casting course of. And whereas the considered auditioning out of your lounge may look like a blessing (no extra dashing by way of site visitors to get to the studio!), it comes with its personal set of challenges. However don’t fear—I’ve received you lined. Right here’s how you can nail your Zoom auditions and be sure to stand out in that tiny little field on the display.
1. Your Setup Issues—Massive Time
First issues first, your Zoom setup must be on level. This isn’t the time to wing it with dangerous lighting and a cluttered background. Deal with your private home setup such as you’re entering into an expert studio.
• Lighting: Put money into a hoop mild or softbox lighting to verify your face is well-lit. Pure mild is nice, however it may be unpredictable, so have a dependable setup prepared.
• Background: Hold it easy—a strong, impartial backdrop is finest. Nobody must see your laundry pile or that gallery wall behind you.
• Sound: Use a great microphone or a lavalier mic to make sure your voice is obvious. The very last thing you need is to be competing with background noise.
2. Know Your Angles
Your digicam angle could make or break your audition. Place your digicam at eye stage, so that you’re not trying down or up—this creates a direct reference to the viewer, which is what you need. Body your self from the chest up, except the script requires extra motion or motion. And for the love of all issues holy, don’t sit too near the digicam. Give your self some area to breathe.
3. Preparation Is Nonetheless Key
Simply since you’re at house doesn’t imply you possibly can slack off. Prep in your Zoom audition similar to you’ll for an in-person one. Memorize your strains, perceive your character, and make robust selections. Have your script close by, however don’t depend on it—particularly not as a crutch. And bear in mind, the digicam picks up all the things, so subtlety is your buddy.
4. Have interaction with the Reader
That is essential. The individual studying with you may not be in the identical room—and even the identical state—however you continue to want to attach with them. Hear actively, react authentically, and ensure the power flows, even by way of a display. The digicam ought to catch the delicate shifts in your reactions, so keep engaged.
5. Tech Test
Check your tools earlier than the audition. And I imply, check all the things—your web connection, audio, video, and lighting. There’s nothing worse than moving into your scene solely to have your connection freeze or your mic minimize out. Have a backup plan, whether or not it’s a hotspot for web points or a spare mic readily available.
6. Convey the Vitality
Zoom can flatten performances, making all the things appear rather less vibrant. Compensate by bringing only a bit extra power than you may in a stay audition. I’m not saying to overact, however remember that the display can boring your depth. Hold your power up, keep current, and ensure your efficiency doesn’t get misplaced within the digital translation.
7. Observe-Up
After the audition, ship a short thank-you e mail to the casting director. It’s a small gesture, however it exhibits professionalism and may maintain you prime of thoughts. Hold it quick and candy—only a fast be aware of thanks for the chance.
8. Embrace the Course of
Zoom auditions are right here to remain, so embrace them as a part of the method. The extra you observe, the extra snug you’ll turn out to be. It’s all about adapting and exhibiting which you can ship, regardless of the format.
Zoom auditions may really feel totally different, however they’re simply one other alternative to point out what you’ve received. With the suitable preparation and mindset, you possibly can flip that tiny field on the display right into a stage that’s all yours. So, get your setup proper, convey your A-game, and let the casting administrators see the star you might be—even by way of a display.
—Matt Newton
