Master Your Audition Slates: Full Body vs. Traditional style

THE PERFECT SELFTAPE SLATE: FULL BODY VS. TRADITIONAL STYLE

Ever wondered if there's a right way to slate for your self-tape audition? That little intro might seem like a throwaway moment, but trust me, it's got the power to make or break your first impression on casting directors. 

Think of it this way: it's your mini chance to shine even before diving into the actual lines!

In the land of self-tapes, two popular slating styles are often requested from casting — full body and traditional. If you’re scratching your head about what they’re supposed to look like and what to include, you’re not alone. 

So what's the difference, and why does it matter? Let's explore the quirks of these slates and make sure you know what exactly casting is asking for on your next selftape.

UNDERSTANDING THE ACTOR SLATE

When it comes to self-tape auditions, your actor slate plays a crucial role in introducing you to casting directors. It's your chance to make a lasting first impression and showcase your personality before they even see your performance. 

Your slate is your opportunity to make a memorable impression and set the stage for the rest of your self-tape audition.

Actors should ALWAYS look directly in the camera lens for their slate.

Let's delve into the two primary types of slates – the traditional slate and the full body slate.

TRADITIONAL SLATE

In a traditional slate the frame is usually mid-chest to the top of the actor's head. 

It typically includes your name and might also include your height, agency representation, role, your location etc …  Double check the instructions for each audition (casting directors might change it up for different productions they cast based on info they require).  And, keep in mind not all casting directors ask for the same information.  

While the elements may seem straightforward, there's an art to making your traditional slate engaging and memorable.

Tips for an Engaging Traditional Slate:

•  Be Confident: Stand tall, maintain eye contact, and speak your name clearly.
•  Inject Personality: Show a glimpse of your personality in your greeting.
•  Smile: A warm smile can leave a lasting impression.
•  Try not to sound robotic, but rather friendly and conversational in tone.
•  Keep it Concise: Aim for brevity while maintaining professionalism.

FULL BODY SLATE (two variations)

In contrast to the traditional slate, the full body slate provides casting directors with a comprehensive view of the actor from head to toe. It offers casting a complete perspective on your physical presence, which can be particularly important for certain roles or projects.

Reasons for a Full Body Slate:

 * Enhanced Visual Representation: Gives a better sense of your physique and overall appearance.

 * Versatility: Useful for roles that require specific physical attributes.

DO NOT fret that when filming horizontally in a wide shot if the sides of your home can be seen (a couch corner, or counter for example)... they don’t care and fully understand that actors are at home.  It’s okay.  Perhaps move the pile of dirty socks in the corner, but otherwise don’t stress.

A confusing part for many actors is how to know if the casting director wants you to “say” the introduction slate information during the full body or just include a full body with a traditional framed slate.  The answer is in the audition instructions, always double check the specific wording.

Full Body Slate Version 1: If casting writes “slate in full body shot”

KEY WORD:  “in”

This version should show the actor from head to toe during the entire slate, while they state the requested information.  

Full Body Slate Version 2:  If casting writes “slate and include full body shot”

KEY WORD:  “include” (or they may write “with” instead)

This version will be a traditional mid-chest slate speaking the information they requested. Then it should cut to a short clip showing you from head to toe (but not speaking).  Casting typically prefers actors to keep the camera still as opposed to the camera panning up and down - panning usually ends up looking clunky.

SLATING “IN CHARACTER”

Customizing the tone of your slate based on the role you're auditioning for is a choice some actors make by adapting the attitude, tone, body language, and/or expressions in the introduction slate to suit the character they’re auditioning for. 

I personally prefer to “be myself” during the slate and then wow them with my choices and acting skill during the scene.  I tell actors that when it comes to your self-tape audition slate, authenticity is key. Being genuine and letting your unique personality shine through can be captivating in itself.  

However, I’m sure there are plenty of stories out there where actors chose to slate “in character” for the audition and dazzled casting and got the part.  

Trust your gut instincts and choose whichever feels right to you.

SEPARATE FILE OR INCLUDED WITH SCENES?

Where the slate should be included is usually clearly stated in the audition instructions sent by the casting director (or forwarded from your agent or manager). Each casting office does things a little bit different, so be sure to double check what they’ve asked for and follow that guideline for each audition.

If that information isn’t included in the instructions then the casting director isn’t being particular about it so you have three options:

1. Start the audition selftape with the slate, cut directly into the scene following the slate.
2. End the audition selftape with the slate, cut directly from the last scene to the slate.
3. Send the slate as a separate file.

FINAL TIP

Be sure to double check the audition selftape instructions and follow the labeling that the casting director asked for.  They all use slightly different labeling methods.  Follow the instructions very carefully and specifically.

CONCLUSION

We've delved deep into the world of actor slates, exploring the nuances between "full body" and "traditional" approaches in self-tape auditions. Remember, your slate is your first impression, your calling card to casting directors. It's your moment to shine, to showcase your unique essence.

CONFIDENCE IS KEY

Above all, remember that your slate is your canvas to showcase your individuality. Embrace what sets you apart and celebrate your quirks by letting your personality shine through. The more authentic and genuine you are in your slate, the more memorable you'll be to casting decision-makers.

Your slate is not just a formality—it's a powerful tool to captivate casting directors attention and leave a lasting impression.

For more selftape and audition tips, don't miss this past blog post: Revolutionizing the Scene: How Selftape Auditions Are Changing the Game