Is It Acceptable to Submit a Self-Tape to a Casting Director Without Being Directed?

Almost any type of self-promotion is acceptable, but the question remains, 'will it be seen?'

General Guidelines and Acceptability

Submitting unsolicited self-tapes to a casting director is as professional as showing up to their office uninvited and unannounced—extremely unprofessional.

While there's nothing illegal about doing so, it's highly unlikely that any casting director would waste their time watching such unsolicited videos. The best-case scenario is that the video will be ignored, but it might also result in your name being added to a 'Do Not Call In' list.

Why Uninvited Submissions Are Unprofessional

There are several reasons why unsolicited submissions are not acceptable:

Following Directions: Not following the given instructions can damage your reputation and hand your application to the 'Do Not Call In' list. Confusing the Director: Casting directors are already inundated with materials, and sending an unsolicited tape can lead to confusion, potentially jeopardizing your chances of receiving callback opportunities. Misaligned Expectations: Casting directors typically have very specific ideas about the type of actor they need for a particular role. Submitting a tape for a character that is not requested can make your submission seem irrelevant and unprofessional.

Best Practices for Self-Taping

If you're considering submitting a self-tape, it's advisable to do so only when specifically requested by the casting director. However, if you are meeting with the director to discuss roles in their future projects, include relevant self-tapes in your demo reel.

When preparing your tape, consider using props and body language to stand out and be remembered. Here are a few examples:

Funny Angle: One actor years ago threw a chair across the room to demonstrate anger, making a lasting impression. Creative Costuming: Another dressed up as Peter Pan and leapt into the shot, creating a unique and memorable performance.

Remember, creativity is key, but always stay true to the role you're auditioning for.

Conclusion

Submissions should always be made with clear, direction-following in mind. Unsolicited videos are a waste of time for casting directors and can harm your prospects. Prepare well, follow instructions meticulously, and remember that a memorable and relevant performance will always make a lasting impression.