Key takeaways
- A smartphone, tripod, plain background, soft front light, and a quiet room are all you need.
- Frame from about the chest up in landscape unless casting asks otherwise.
- Choose a reader who reads clearly and more quietly than you.
- Follow casting instructions for slates, file names, and deadlines exactly.
Self tapes are now a standard part of casting. Many first round auditions for film, television, and commercials are recorded at home and submitted online. The good news is that you do not need expensive gear. You need a clean frame, clear sound, good light, and a performance that shows your choices. Here is how to set up and deliver a self tape that gets noticed.
The basic self tape setup
- Camera: a recent smartphone is enough. Film in landscape (horizontal) unless casting asks otherwise.
- Tripod: keep the camera steady and at eye level.
- Background: a plain wall or backdrop in a solid neutral color such as gray, light blue, or off white.
- Lighting: soft light from in front of you. A window facing you or a ring light or softbox works well. Avoid light coming from behind you.
- Sound: record in a quiet room with soft furnishings. A simple clip on or shotgun mic can make a big difference.
Framing
For most scenes, a medium close up from roughly the chest up works well. Leave a little space above your head. Keep your eyeline just to the side of the lens, toward your reader, unless casting asks you to look into the camera.
Your reader
A reader delivers the other character’s lines off camera. Choose someone who will read clearly and at a lower volume than you so your performance stays the focus. If no one is available, some actors use a video call reader.
Performance tips
- Read the full sides and any character notes carefully.
- Make clear, specific choices about what your character wants in the scene.
- Know your lines well enough to stay present and listen.
- Keep movement natural and within the frame.
- Record a few takes, then choose the one that feels most honest, not the most dramatic.
Slates and labeling
A slate is a short introduction, usually your name, and sometimes your height, location, or agency. Only include what casting requests. Label your file exactly as instructed, for example with your name and the role name, and double check the submission deadline.
Common self tape mistakes
- Filming vertically when casting asked for horizontal.
- Busy backgrounds, dim lighting, or echo.
- A reader who is louder than you.
- Submitting more takes than requested.
- Missing the deadline.
Frequently asked questions
What is the best background for a self tape?
A plain wall or backdrop in a solid neutral color such as gray, light blue, or off white.
Should a self tape be horizontal or vertical?
Horizontal (landscape) is the standard unless casting specifically asks for vertical.
Where should I look during a self tape?
Usually just to the side of the camera toward your reader, unless casting asks you to look directly into the lens.
How many takes should I send?
Send only what casting requests. If they do not specify, one strong take is usually best.
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Written by the Actors Models Wanted editorial team. Last updated September 2026.