3 Ways the Casting Industry Has Changed

Dundas_Town_hall_film_set casting — Photo Source:
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The film industry has been around for pretty much forever. Well, that may be pushing it, but the first movie ever filmed was done sometime in 1896. This means that all the way back then, someone was already in charge of casting for a production.

Filming casting — Photo Source:
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For sure, things were a lot different back then. However, if you will look at how casting has been done lately, then you will notice that there has been a surge of changes in the industry starting from 2000 alone.

Film-Industry casting — Photo Source:
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Although what constitutes as talent and what it takes to have a great audition have not changed, the difference lies in the technology and the role it plays when it comes to casting for film and TV productions in the present. Here are three of the major changes that have happened in the casting industry you must be aware of:

Here is a list of how the casting industry has changed starting with

1. Video Cameras

Video-Camera casting — Photo Source:
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Whether it’s handheld or in a phone, majority of Americans have a camera or video camera at their disposal every single day. If you are an aspiring actor, then it’s important that you have your own digital camera. You even get extra points if you own a tripod as well.

iPhone-Camera casting — Photo Source:
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And, if you do own a camera, it is necessary if you brush up on your basic knowledge of editing and uploading videos. Nowadays, it’s required that you have a reel or a “self-tape”, which is basically a video of yourself speaking directly into the camera. Not only is this required for auditions, but it’s a great way to help get you comfortable with talking in front of a camera.

Auditioning-In-Front-of-Cameras casting — Photo Source:
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When you go on acting auditions, you might not have to read in front of a camera, as they might usually just be before a panel of judges. However, sometimes when you walk into an audition room, you will come face to face with a camera and a crew.

Auditions-Before-a-Judging-Panel — Photo Source:
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Do not let this intimidate you though. While it might be a bit harder to create an emotional connection with the casting directors when you’re performing in front of camera, things will work out better if you pretend that it isn’t even in the room. If you are not conscious about the camera catching your each and every movement, then you will feel more comfortable with your body language and tone of voice.

2. Electronic Submissions

At present, you can be scheduled for an interview and not even have to leave the comfort of your own home. Technology is making it easier for actors and actresses to book acting gigs all across the country without paying for airline tickets, hotel rooms and all of that other junk that comes with traveling.

Film-Reels — Photo Source:
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These things are made possible through electronic submissions. Unlike a video submission or a reel, this is more of a digital conversation between you and the casting directors. You can sit at home in front of your laptop or computer, as long as it has a webcam, and read your lines right into the camera.

However, this could make it easier or harder for you as an actor. It can be easier because you don’t have to leave, drive or wait for your turn. However, it could also be hard because when you are submitting yourself electronically, you are removing the personal connection out of the equation.

The casting directors won’t be able to feel you on an emotional level and it could be harder to get a sense of your talents as a performer. However, these types of auditions are becoming more and more popular as time goes by. So, is it possible that we will be seeing an end to headshots, manila folders and long lines at casting calls?

3. Social Media

Networking is something that you as an actor should be doing regardless of you have already landed acting jobs or not. Getting on Facebook and Twitter to help promote yourself and your brand is both beneficial and educational.

Facebook-Twitter — Photo Source:
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In this day and age, you can’t go anywhere without someone asking you to “Like” them or “Friend” them on some sort of social network. When logging on, instead of looking at your profiles as a user, look at it as a business. Everyone on your social networks can be turned into a fan and that fan can be turned into a cheerleader and eventually can become a coworker.

Open-Auditions — Photo Source:
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Make connections with other artists, who share the same talents as you in your city and all over the country. You never know who will need an actor or actress like you for their next production and maintaining a friendship through a whole lot of people, especially casting directors, via social media can help them keep you in mind.

Auditions — Photo Source:
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At the end of the day, an audition is an audition, whether it’s in person, on a computer screen or through a video. Any time you land an audition, make sure you put 100% commitment and dedication into it. This is the only way you can make sure of getting the best chance at landing the role.