Acting : Auditioning Via Skype? by Dustin Woodard

I have auditioned via Skype and it is daunting. You don't see them, but they can see you. I have also auditioned via YouTube, which has its benefits and negatives. I'd rather do a YouTube audition than Skype. However, I would not turn down a Skype audition. As an actor, I just prefer to see who I'm auditioning for.

If you can't to a local audition, how are you going to do a local production? Use skype or video auditions only as a means to determine if you want to call the actor in for a live audition, or at least a call back.

I have. I like it.

So far, I've had one audition via Skype. Since I booked the gig, I don't mind it at all. Basically just another audition.

Michael: strange that they didn't allow their video stream to show - I don't think that is a typical Skype setup. Cory: sometimes for the right actor is worth flying in & providing room & board. As a director/producer, I find any type of reel or youtube clip an actor can share very useful. In fact, for a commercial I'd rather see a video clip of the actor then the typical resume & polished headshot that the industry pushes for.

would be ready for it! any german speaking actor needed?

Hey Jennifer Lawrence did it for, " Silver Linings Playbook" so I think you should do it man.

Just make sure you have good lighting and a good camera for Skype. Some of these webcams can make you look horrible.

Great point Michael. After my video cam died, I used my cell phone yesterday, and I think my nose was distorted. Will have to get my DSLR up and running.

Yes. The first one actually cut off in the middle of it without anybody noticing (producers were in the room, the director was on Skype) so I had to do it again. Other than that it's fine...

I have had a few via Skype, it's not the same as in person, however it saves time and money. I also think it helps via youtube clips and other Internet web pages to get your face out there. Sometimes coming from a small John Smith kinda town has down falls. I think my nerves were not as hyped up over Skype.

Yes. LOVE video chat auditions. My daughter just booked a commercial last night from an audition via FaceTime. She and I have auditioned via Skype as well. I didn't like it at first, thought it was not as good as in person. However, we live 1.5hrs away from most of auditions & sometimes traffic stresses us out. So, I think we are more relaxed via video chat and saves money on gas:)

I think modern tech is changing the dynamic on the subject. There's no substitute for the in person read however part of that is because it's been the norm for so long. I cast virtually my entire film via cell phone video reads and it's worked out far beyond my expectations. Mind you that's 15+ characters.

it works , Maisha film lab did that for their 2013 doc lab , people wrote normal application , pre screening was done and all participant that had stories to tell were invited for the call via Skype with the mentor from another continent , and mentor selected whom they wanted from the call , its quiet realistic if technology was every where but un realistic if you involve it in remote area Africa ,where some one might fail because , they no bills to cover the whole call , poor internet cables , and electricity shortages . other wise you might fail to get a real talent just because of tech . in any way , i wish you good luck with your audition . try it out please .

I'm 2 for 2 on Skype auditions (US Cellular national spot & THE CABINING - lead role), so I'm all for them! You wouldn't hurt my feelings if you send a few my way! LOL

I have tried audition by recording part of a script I was sent , then sending a link to youtube, but I find that as an actor it is better to audition in person along with the other actors so I and the director would get a better idea of what the performance looks like as a whole.

I auditioned via Skype as an actress in a Boston PBS-TV documentary. I was nervous because I had NEVER used Skype before. But it went easily between me & the prod/director. We talked about the part, and then I read. He asked me to make some changes to my reading, and I got the part. The day of shooting it was as if I already knew him. I hope there will be more Skype auditions since I live half way between Boston & NYC.

Congrats on the new role Beverly! Welcome to the new age. lol

Dustin, Skype is wonderful! I do all of my pitching of my screenplays this way. It's so comfortable and less stressful in your own home. Just a tip; a couple hours before your audition, bring up your photo booth, if you have it on your computer, and set it for video. Just tape yourself over and over again until you get it perfect! Just keep watching yourself and be your own critique. It's awkward at first, but it soon becomes second nature. Good luck!!!

Shia LeBoef auditioned by skype for the Broadway production ORPHANS, Jennifer Laurence auditioned by skype for DAvid O russell for SILVER LININGS PLAYBOOK. I skype coach actors in NYC for film and tv all the time.

Caryn, that is wonderful! Even with pitching screenplays, it's vital we look professional and yet likeable.

Skyping from home will son be the norm , like voice over form home studios now is...

I would totally be up for a skype audition!

I have auditioned twice on Skype. I thought it was a good experience both times and felt it afforded me opportunities I may not have been given otherwise.

I auditioned via Skype from my home in CT to PBS in Boston. Very intimate; producer/director can read the thoughts behind your eyes. I loved it and got the job. I was grateful not to have the gas expense.

I am also a director and we use Skype for Auditions and Production meetings all the time. Pros and cons: For 1 on 1's its excellent. Even up to 3 people; including yourself; the Director, the casting director and the auditioning talent; the video works fine. However, the video goes out for the 4th to 10th person you bring in (the audio works, but you can only see the persons picture; no video. Yes, the video still works for the first 3 you added in). Yes, Skype will only let you conference up to 10 at a time. I have over 60 cast and crew members for our current feature Sy-Fy project and meet with them twice a month; 10 at a time. As being 4 months away from production; we are also ready to begin "Table Reads" on Skype; we'll see how 'that' goes, lol. Stay tuned. The best part; It's Free! Good Luck.

OMG, I just seen this is a 2-year-old post. Haha Well belay my last post, lol.

Yea. I'm located in Hawaii. Casting was located in LA.