Self-tapes have become a standard part of the casting process for Irish actors. Whether you’re auditioning for Irish productions, UK work or international projects, you’ll be expected to film professional-quality self-tape auditions from home.
This guide covers how to set up a simple self-tape space, film strong auditions, submit files professionally, and protect yourself from exploitative or unsafe casting requests.
Why self-tapes matter for Irish actors
Self-tapes allow casting directors to review performances at their convenience, without requiring actors to travel for in-person auditions. This is especially valuable in Ireland, where:
- Actors outside Dublin can audition for city-based projects without travelling
- Irish actors can audition for UK or international work remotely
- Casting directors can see more actors in less time
Self-tapes have become the norm, particularly for initial auditions. Callbacks and final auditions may still be in person, but first-round self-tapes are now standard across theatre, film, TV and commercials.
This means every actor needs:
- A basic home setup for filming
- Technical skills to shoot and send files
- The ability to deliver strong performances on camera without a casting director present
Setting up a simple self-tape space at home
You don’t need an expensive studio setup. A clean, simple space with good lighting and sound is enough.
Location
Choose a quiet room with:
- Plain background: A neutral wall (white, grey, light colour) is ideal
- Minimal distractions: Avoid busy patterns, personal items, clutter or anything that draws attention away from you
- Enough space: Room to frame yourself appropriately and move if required
Lighting
Good lighting is crucial. Natural light from a window works well, but can be inconsistent. For reliability:
- Use affordable LED lights or ring lights: Many actors use inexpensive ring lights or LED panels
- Position lights in front of you: Avoid overhead lighting that casts harsh shadows
- Aim for even, flattering light: Your face should be clearly visible without harsh shadows or overexposure
Test your lighting before you need it. Film a short clip and check that you’re well-lit, clearly visible, and that the image is neither too dark nor washed out.
Camera and positioning
You can use:
- A smartphone (most modern phones have excellent cameras)
- A webcam (if the quality is good)
- A dedicated camera if you have one
Position the camera:
- At eye level: Don’t film from above or below unless specifically requested
- Framed from mid-chest up (typically): This is standard framing, though some auditions request different shots
- Stable: Use a tripod or stable surface — avoid shaky, handheld footage
Sound
Clear audio is as important as good visuals.
- Film in a quiet space with minimal background noise
- Avoid echo-heavy rooms (large, empty spaces with hard surfaces)
- Test your audio by filming a short clip and listening back
Most smartphone microphones are adequate for self-tapes, but if you’re in a noisy environment or have poor acoustics, consider an affordable external microphone.
Filming your self-tape: framing, sound and performance
Read the brief carefully
Every casting director has specific requirements. Common instructions include:
- Specific framing (close-up, mid-shot, full body)
- Whether to slate (introduce yourself on camera)
- How many takes to include
- Which scenes or sides to perform
- Whether to have someone read opposite lines or perform to camera
Follow instructions exactly. Ignoring casting requirements is one of the fastest ways to be dismissed.
Slating
If asked to slate, keep it simple:
- State your name clearly
- Sometimes you’ll be asked to provide height, location, or agent details
- Be friendly and professional, but brief
The slate is not a performance — it’s just identification.
Performing to camera
Self-tapes require strong on-camera technique:
- Eye line: Unless instructed otherwise, look just off-camera (not directly into the lens)
- Energy: Match the tone of the scene — don’t perform bigger or smaller than you would in person
- Natural delivery: Avoid being overly theatrical; self-tapes favour natural, grounded performance
- Stillness: Don’t fidget, sway or make distracting movements
If you’re reading with someone off-camera, make sure they’re positioned close to the lens so your eye line is appropriate. If you’re alone, imagine the other character just beside the camera.
Number of takes
Some casting directors want to see multiple takes, others want just one. If they don’t specify, two or three takes showing different choices is usually safe. Don’t send ten takes — casting directors don’t have time to watch excessive material.
Technical quality
Before sending, check:
- You’re in focus and well-lit
- Audio is clear
- There are no distracting noises or interruptions
- The file is the correct format and length
Sending your audition professionally
File format and size
Casting directors often specify file formats (commonly MP4 or MOV). If they don’t, MP4 is a safe default.
Keep file sizes reasonable:
- Compress large files if needed, but don’t sacrifice too much quality
- Many casting platforms have file size limits
How to send
Follow the casting director’s instructions:
- Some use casting platforms (Spotlight, Casting Networks, Breakdown Express)
- Some accept email submissions
- Some request files via WeTransfer, Dropbox or Google Drive links
Never send unsolicited self-tapes to agents or casting directors unless they’ve explicitly requested them.
What to include in your message
Keep your submission email or message brief and professional:
- Your name
- The role you’re auditioning for
- Confirmation that you’ve followed the brief
- Links or attachments as requested
- Your contact details or agent’s details
Don’t write long cover letters or explanations of your performance. Let the work speak for itself.
Deadlines
Submit by the deadline. Late submissions are often ignored. If you need an extension, ask politely well in advance — don’t assume it’s fine to miss the deadline.
Staying safe and setting boundaries
Recognise legitimate casting
Legitimate casting calls:
- Come through your agent, reputable casting platforms, or verified production companies
- Provide clear project details (production name, director, producer, project type)
- Follow professional standards (clear brief, reasonable deadlines, respectful communication)
- Don’t ask for money or inappropriate material
Red flags
Be cautious if:
- You’re asked to pay to audition or submit
- The project details are vague or non-existent
- You’re asked to film nudity, intimate content or anything that makes you uncomfortable without clear context, contracts and professional standards
- The communication is unprofessional, pushy or makes you uncomfortable
- You can’t verify the legitimacy of the production or casting director
Protect your boundaries
You’re allowed to:
- Ask questions about the project, role and production before submitting
- Decline auditions that make you uncomfortable
- Set boundaries around what you’re willing to film for a self-tape
- Seek advice from your agent, union or trusted industry contacts if something feels off
If a casting request makes you uncomfortable, trust your instincts. Legitimate productions respect actors’ boundaries and operate professionally.
Nudity and intimate content
If an audition involves nudity or intimate scenes:
- You should receive clear, professional communication about what’s required
- There should be an intimacy coordinator or clear protocols in place
- You’re entitled to ask detailed questions before agreeing
- You can decline without explanation
Never film nudity or intimate content for a self-tape unless you’re entirely comfortable, the production is clearly legitimate, and professional standards are in place.
Common self-tape mistakes to avoid
- Ignoring instructions: Always follow the brief exactly
- Poor lighting or sound: Test your setup before you need it
- Overacting: Self-tapes favour natural, grounded performance
- Looking directly at the camera (unless asked): Use an off-camera eye line
- Apologising or explaining: Don’t add disclaimers or excuses; submit your best work confidently
- Too many takes: Don’t overwhelm casting directors with excessive material
- Late submissions: Meet deadlines or ask for extensions in advance
Practice and improvement
Self-taping is a skill that improves with practice. Consider:
- Regular practice: Film yourself regularly to get comfortable on camera
- Self-tape classes or coaching: Many acting coaches offer self-tape technique workshops
- Feedback: Ask trusted actors, coaches or industry contacts to review your self-tapes and offer constructive feedback
- Study your work: Watch your tapes back critically and identify areas for improvement
The more comfortable you become with self-taping, the better your auditions will be.
Final thoughts
Self-tapes are now a standard part of the casting process for Irish actors. Setting up a simple home space, mastering basic technical skills, and delivering strong on-camera performances will make you more competitive and open up more opportunities.
Invest time in learning the technical side, practice regularly, and always approach self-tapes professionally. And remember: if something about a casting request feels wrong, trust your instincts and seek advice before proceeding.