Self-Tape Tips?

Use a Decent Camera, But Don't Stress About It

A smartphone camera is absolutely fine.

• Use the rear-facing camera if possible for higher quality.
• Make sure that you shoot in landscape (horizontal).

Find a Quiet Space

• Choose a quiet room where you won’t be disturbed.
• Turn off fans, devices, or anything that hums, beeps, or buzzes.
• Ask family or housemates to keep the noise down during your recording.

Lighting is Key

• Face a natural light source (like a window), or use a ring light or lamp with a soft white bulb.
• Don’t sit with your back to a window — it’ll put your face in shadow.
• Make sure your face is clearly visible and evenly lit.

Use a Plain Background

• A neutral background (plain wall or curtain) works best — avoid posters or clutter.
• Don’t film in front of a window, bookshelf, or anything distracting.

Stabilise Your Camera

• Use a tripod, shelf, or stack of books to keep your phone steady.
• No handheld or wobbly shots — keep the camera still and eye-level.

Keep It Simple and Honest

• Don’t over-act. Focus on truth, clarity, and emotional connection.
• The camera picks up everything — small, honest choices work better than big, theatrical ones.

Eye Line Matters

• Don’t look directly into the camera unless the script calls for it.
• Imagine the other character just off to one side of the camera lens — not above, not far away.

Use Your Body, But Don't Overdo It

• Keep your body in frame (from chest up or waist up is standard).
• Use natural gestures, but avoid pacing or flailing arms.
• Stay grounded and connected to the piece.

Understand the Text

• Know exactly what’s happening in your monologue — who you’re speaking to, why, and what’s at stake.
• If you wrote it yourself (Original), make sure it has a clear tone, shape, and purpose.

Practice Out Loud - and On Camera

• Do several practice runs in front of the camera.
• Watch them back and adjust your performance. Learn how you come across on screen.

Don't Memorise Mechanically

• Aim to own the words, not just recite them.
• Think about your character’s intention with each line — what do they want?

Take Your Time

• Don’t rush your performance.
• Let pauses and silences breathe. Give the audience time to feel with you.

Clothing Matters

• Wear something simple and comfortable that doesn’t distract from your face or voice.
• Avoid logos, stripes, or busy patterns.
• Choose a colour that contrasts slightly with your background.

No Need for Props or Costumes

• Let your acting do the work. Props and costumes often distract rather than enhance.

Film More Than Once Take

• Record several takes and choose your best one.
• Try slightly different interpretations — sometimes your third or fourth take is the gold one.
• Limit yourself to a maximum of 5 takes. If you don't think you've nailed it in those takes then take a break and come back and try again. 

Check the File Before Uploading

• Make sure the sound and video are clear.
• Watch it through from start to finish.
• Name your file clearly: FirstNameSurName/AgeGroup& Category

• Looking directly into the lens (unless instructed)
• Over-rehearsing so the performance feels stiff
• Using filters or editing effects
• Filming in the wrong orientation (landscape is standard)
• Reading from a script (you should be off-book)
• Standing too far away (we want to see your eyes and expressions)
• Panicking if you mess up — it’s normal! Just take a breath and try again.
• Filming Over and Over Again - take a break if yo haven't got it after 5 takes and try again later.

• “Just have fun with it and don't feel restricted in your space and give yourself enough space filming the shot to move around.” - Eliza Scanlen
• "If the script's good, everything you need is in there." - Olivia Colman.
• “My approach is to look at the character’s world. Often, we get so locked into memorizing lines and practicing how we’re going to say those lines, when in reality the lines are just a symbol or representation of the person. I spend a lot of time getting into the character’s life. Every character has a point of view, so what informs this character’s point of view?” - Malcolm-Jamal Warner 

Further Information

• Leading acting and voice coach, Mel Churcher, guides us through the process of self-taping, and finding the freedom to act more naturally within it https://www.spotlight.com/news-and-advice/the-essentials/freedom-within-self-taping-tips/