Are most acting auditions online now?

The acting world has always been dynamic, but never has it shifted so rapidly as it did in the last decade. While self-taped auditions were slowly gaining traction before the 2020 pandemic, the global shutdown catapulted this method of casting into the mainstream. Today, actors all over the world are increasingly being cast from the comfort of their living rooms — and for many, it’s a welcome change.

“Before 2020, I still went into a casting office a few times a month,” recalls actor Sarah Kim, known for her work on network TV dramas. “Now? Ninety percent of my auditions are via self-tape or Zoom.”

According to a 2023 report from Casting Society of America (CSA), more than 75% of casting directors now prefer digital submissions for initial auditions. It’s efficient, cost-effective, and casts a wider net across time zones.

For those new to the industry, a virtual audition typically takes one of two forms: a self-tape or a live online audition.

A self-tape is a pre-recorded video audition that an actor submits according to specific instructions provided by casting.

A live virtual audition involves meeting a casting director or producer in real-time over platforms like Zoom or Skype.

The self-tape allows actors to control their environment, lighting, performance, and often, their number of takes. “The control over the process is empowering,” says David Rojas, a New York-based stage actor. “But it can also feel like you’re sending your performance into a void.”

The initial pivot to online auditions was born out of necessity. COVID-19 shut down most in-person activities in 2020, and casting offices had no choice but to adapt. What started as a workaround quickly revealed surprising benefits.

Casting directors loved it: They could view tapes at their convenience, rather than sitting through endless back-to-back sessions. “It allows us to focus more intently on each performance without time constraints,” said Michelle Wade Byrd, a casting director for both film and television.

Producers loved it: They could cut down travel and studio space costs. Talent could be considered from anywhere, opening doors to international actors and newcomers.

Actors… had mixed feelings: While many appreciated the flexibility, others missed the energy of the room.

“It’s a different kind of performance,” admits Lamar Jones, who starred in a recent indie film. “I feed off a casting director’s vibe. Without that, it’s like acting in a vacuum.”

As auditions moved online, several platforms emerged — or re-emerged — as essential tools for actors:

Actors Access: Arguably the most widely used platform in North America, Actors Access lets performers submit to projects directly and upload self-tapes.

Casting Networks: Popular with commercial and industrial auditions, especially in Los Angeles and New York.

Backstage: A longstanding favorite for aspiring actors, offering a mix of indie, student, and professional gigs.

Casting Frontier: Frequently used for commercial work, especially in the U.S. West Coast.

Eco Cast Live: Part of Breakdown Services, this tool is used for real-time virtual auditions.

“Eco Cast Live is a game-changer,” said casting director Deborah Barylski, who has cast shows like Everybody Loves Raymond. “It allows for immediate feedback and direction while maintaining distance.”

While the convenience of online auditions is hard to beat, the shift hasn’t been without challenges.

Pros:

Accessibility: More actors, from different regions, can audition for bigger roles.

Time-saving: No commuting to a casting office.

Creative control: Actors can choose their best take.

Cons:

Technical issues: Lighting, sound, internet quality — all fall on the actor’s shoulders.

Lack of feedback: Casting directors rarely offer notes.

Isolation: The camaraderie and energy of a live audition room is missing.

“There’s something magical about walking into a room and having that electric moment,” said actress Carla Mendes, who’s worked in both formats. “A tape can’t always capture that spark.”

Actors must now be part performer, part filmmaker. Here’s how to stand out:

Invest in your setup: A decent camera, microphone, and lighting setup can dramatically improve the quality of your self-tape.

Keep backgrounds simple: Use neutral backdrops to avoid distractions.

Stick to instructions: Follow file naming, length, and framing guidelines exactly.

Be professional on Zoom: Dress the part, check your tech ahead of time, and make eye contact through the lens.

“I book more now than I ever did before,” says Luis Hernandez, a commercial actor. “I just learned how to make my tapes pop.”

Most casting directors believe that online auditions — at least for first-round submissions — are here for the long haul.

Risa Bramon Garcia, who cast films like Speed and JFK, commented in a 2024 industry panel:

“Self-tapes let us see more actors in less time. It’s simply more efficient. That said, chemistry reads and final callbacks still often happen in person.”

Casting veteran Jessica Daniels agrees:

“Online is the new normal. If you’re not comfortable with it, you’re going to be left behind.”

While the shift online has made auditioning more accessible, it has also increased competition. With a few clicks, a casting director can now view hundreds of submissions from around the globe.

So, what’s the key to surviving this digital age?

Adaptability. Actors who embrace the virtual audition — and polish their technical skills — will be ahead of the curve.

Networking is still key, too. “Virtual auditions are part of the game now, but relationships still get you in the door,” said talent manager Dana Michaels.

In-person auditions will never disappear entirely. There’s still tremendous value in live chemistry reads, callbacks, and the human connection that only real-time interactions offer. However, for the foreseeable future, online auditions are the default for the first step in the casting process.

“Being a great actor is no longer enough,” says acting coach Terrence Lucas. “You need to know how to film, edit, and present your work, too.”

So, are most acting auditions online now?

Yes — and they’re likely to stay that way.

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