Tips for Acting in TV & Film

Film and Television are demanding and unpredictable aspects of show business, where the "Nobody's" of today can become the "Stars" of tomorrow as fast as the "Somebody's" of today can become the "Unemployed" of tomorrow. In order to get the job, and keep it, you must be able to:

1. Play to the Camera-Unlike stage actors, Film/TV actors cannot experience the audience's reaction based on their performance until the film is released at a much later date. Instead, they will have to solely rely on their fellow actors and the camera while projecting their true emotions. For example, if a film actor is required to confess his love to his lover, while directing his lines into the camera, he must "see" his lover, and not a reflective camera lens staring back! It is important to be conscious of your surroundings and where the camera is at all times.  Be sure to know where people and things of importance are around you, so you do not block anyone! Once you know what the camera needs to capture, then you can act accordingly for that moment. The camera relies on your body language, facial expressions, movements, etc. to portray every necessary emotion and highlight every action. 
2. Act with Consistency on every Take-In film, you perform scenes over and over until the camera gets every necessary angle and the director has you make every desirable re-attempt. Therefore, a film actor must be able to perform repetitive takes without lacking energy, emotion, or his character's objective. Do not take offense at the number of times you will have to repeat filming scenes. Continuity is vital, which means your movements and appearance must be identical on every take. Stay on your toes and perform to your highest level, every time! 
3. Act with Scenes out of Order- Shooting scenes out of order is common and a challenge for the actor, to say the least. A film actor must be able to successfully act in scenes which are out of order or the movie will not flow correctly. An actor's first day of work may consist of shooting the final scene of a film, and if not performed truthfully, he can destroy the character and the story. A good tip for the actor is to list the kind of emotions each scene will require so he may reflect on it before filming scenes out of order. 
4. Hit your Mark-Blocking is the choreography and movement given to actors who are performing on set. It is crucial for actors to "hit their mark" while acting in front of the camera, or issues may occur, such as poor lighting on an individual or body parts cut out of the screen, etc. Some actors make their marks visible by putting a mark of chalk on the floor so you can find your spot, counting how many steps to your place, or looking for your mark during your acting. These are the many challenges an actor faces behind the camera. 
5. Know the different Types of Shots-  A long shot is when the camera focuses on an actor from a distance to the point where he or she is barely recognizable. With this technique, the audience can better determine the setting, time, or place. A medium shot is when the camera focuses on the actor's entire body in the midst of a setting. A close-up focuses on a specific part of the actor, whether it is a body part, or a possession. A two shot focuses on two actors in a scene accomplishing a task, such as eating together at a diner.  Understanding the different types of camera directions will help you perform with confidence, knowing which important parts to be conscious of during filming. 
6. Master the Close-up- The Close-up may be intimidating, but it is necessary for a main film or TV actor to succeed. Ultimately, the actor must be comfortable acting out intense emotions, often by himself in front of a camera. This can be your best or worst moment. However, in the end, remember criticism is a part of the gig! An excellent way to practice the close-up is to tape yourself and another actor performing a specific scene that requires a strong emotional response from you. Then, tape it again with the camera solely focused on you and look for the difference in your performance. Close-ups are not always comfortable, but if you can become comfortable and get past them, imagine what you can accomplish!
7. Act on a Set-A set can be extremely hectic and far from realistic when there is a film crew and others hustling, bustling, and making noise right before you hear, "Action!" The set is not guaranteed to be any more real then is required for the camera. Your job is to make the set look believable by believing in everything it is supposed to be. 

In order to practice for Film or TV, record yourself acting with another actor, or by yourself, get comfortable in front of the camera and with closeups! If you can learn to have confidence in yourself,  your craft, and master the above skills, you can own your auditions, the set, and the camera! Imagine the feeling you will get from acting with confidence and performing to your highest ability! -Actors Nook Team