Sarah Sheps of MANN Casting shares some tips on SOC
This Blog is for every Actor who questions themselves, feels stagnant in their craft or is just interested in more training! We believe it always goes back to the training and putting in the work. We were lucky enough to get some insight from one of the busiest Casting Companies in the city. Sarah Sheps from MANN Casting shares some incredible tips to help book the SOC (aka Silent On Camera) Commercial:
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1 | Actors are confused about what to do for SOC. Can they talk? How much? Should other people be involved off camera if there are no lines?
YES- you can always talk (unless it specifically says do not). When you shoot the real commercial, you will be talking they just won’t be rolling sound. Try and make it as real and natural as you can. If talking to someone off camera helps, go for it – but this is not needed.
2 | Comedy for TV; A lot of Theatre Actors are really funny, and they get self-tapes but aren’t booking. Why do you think this is?
It is a crazy industry that requires patience. For commercials everything is so subtle so watch your tape back and remember the camera is right on you – very different then theatre – We are looking for subtle nuanced performances.
3 | Slate: What do you want to see? Close up? Full body? To the point? Personable?
Make sure you follow the instructions posted. Sometimes we need very specific information. It’s always great to see a full body shot.
4 | Setting: Do you want the real deal in a car or the blue backdrop?
Either is fine. Since we are self-taping in our home, we have the luxury of being in bed/cooking in the kitchen etc. – The most important thing is we see you, and for zoom recalls that you have a strong internet connection. Rule of thumb is if you can’t see the camera it can’t see you.
5 | How many takes if it doesn’t specify?
TWO- and always make sure you show some range. Sometimes it looks like you just uploaded the same take twice. We need to see variety and that you have range.
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