How to succeed at commercial castings

10th March 2010

2010 has got off to a great start at Spotlight Studios with numerous film and television projects using our facilities.

Just recently feature film directors Roland Emmerich (2012, The Day After Tomorrow) and Taylor Hackford (Ray, Proof of Life) were in casting for their latest projects. It’s pilot season too which means plenty of actors have been in to tape their auditions for American casting directors.

Commercial castings include Orange, John Lewis, McDonalds, Shell and Nintendo.

To help you with landing that commercial, here are some top tips:

1. Check that you’ve received any relevant script or information in advance.
2. Always know the product and the casting director when you arrive at the casting.
3. Always read the script first, fill in the casting forms later.
4. Be prepared to wait (and pleasantly surprised if you don’t have to). Commercial sessions invariably run late, so don’t let it affect your audition.
5. Expect to be asked to improvise: approach this with a positive attitude and try not to look nervous even if you are.
6. Remember you’re in front of a camera, not on stage – less is more when it comes to your performance.
7. Listen carefully to the instructions the casting director gives you and don’t be afraid to ask questions.
8. Be aware of where the camera is and make sure your face is clearly visible – don’t look straight at the camera though.
9. Don’t try and be wacky or different to stand out.

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For more tips and advice from Spotlight and our guest experts, click here.