QUESTION: Should I Film My Self-Tape Vertically or Horizontally?

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  • QUESTION:

    Should I Film My Self-Tape Vertically or Horizontally?

    (By AM Staff)

    (Photo: George Milton | Pexels)

    QUESTION:

    Should I film my self-tape vertically or horizontally?

    ANSWER:

    Always shoot your self-tape horizontally. Always, always, always!

    The only exception to this rule is when you have received a specific instruction. If you are specifically instructed by the casting director to film all or part of your self-tape vertically, you should do so.


    RELATED: What is a Self-Tape Audition?


    There are rare times when CDs request that actors film vertically. For instance, they may ask you to film vertically so they can get a better view of your whole body as you perform. But these kinds of exceptions are rare and specific.

    (Photo: George Milton | Pexels)

    When in doubt, or when instructions are not clear, always go horizontal. Shooting horizontally is what is expected within the industry.

    The same goes for your slate. Film your slate horizontally. Do not do otherwise, unless the casting director makes a specific request for you to do so.

    The reason for this is simple. When was the last time you saw a movie that was filmed vertically? It almost never happens. So why should you shoot your self-tape horizontally? Because that’s how movies are made.


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