If you've been auditioning at all these past few years, you've had to get used to self-taping no matter where you live. In Atlanta, we've been doing it since 2005 (and almost exclusively since 2012). And many of you have smartly chosen to create a home setup for convenience and cost-effectiveness (as opposed to going to a professional service like mine).
I'm all for the home setup. However, many actors haven't taken the time (or just don't have the curiosity) to learn all the nuances of lighting, sound, and camera to make their setup really "pop". For the sake of brevity, I wanted to share a little truth nugget regarding your camera...
If you're using either (a) your cell phone at 2-3 feet from your face, or (b) a DSLR with, say, a 50mm lens that's 2-3 feet from your face, then PLEASE watch this video (your forehead will thank you). Many actors are FLOORED to see the difference between a camera that close versus one that is positioned further away. I've been doing this for 15 years, and I was still flabbergasted to see the stark contrast when I was editing the samples side by side.
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Super useful advice Matthew!
Good video!
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So helpful! Thank you Matthew! Do you have any recommendations for an inexpensive ring light?
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Shellie Schmals Anything on Amazon will do. It's such a simple technology. Just ask yourself whether you want a camera mount in the center of the light, or anything else that's "fancy". The one I'm using in that poster frame (and at the beginning of the video) is mounted on a tripod, and has a mount for my phone. I have a smaller one that is on a gooseneck with a separated phone mount so that the light can be maneuvered wherever. So just think about your setup, and what will make the most sense for you. Then, compare prices online and don't feel the need to buy the most expensive one.
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Great advice, Matthew - many thanks.
Matthew Cornwell excellent technical details and fantastic reminders!!
Thank you Matthew Cornwell - very helpful!