Actor Video and Audio Reels

First impressions are crucial, particularly when it comes to how actors present themselves. In addition to the all-important headshot/resume, the other essential calling card is your demo reel. It's like your personal movie trailer — custom-designed to show casting directors and agents your range and exactly what you're capable of vocally and physically.

First rule to remember: Never mail out your reel unsolicited; it is counterproductive and a waste of money.

Always keep your reel brief (no more than three minutes), with your best clips first. However, if all you have are grainy student film clips, a commercial you're barely in, or a play with terrible sound and picture, make a reel from scratch. Acting-class sessions can suffice if they're powerful.

If you need help, demo-reel production companies can produce clips or put a polished look on existing clips. Some companies create interactive menus for DVD reels, and even edit them to increase your screen time on previous clips. The process takes time and money, however: Expect to pay anywhere from $200 to $300 for a professional-looking reel that has been created by an editor. Keep in mind that it's always better to have no tape than a bad tape.

You'll need to provide your demo reel in a variety of formats. The easiest way for casting director, agents, and managers to see your video/audio reel is by uploading it online as a Quicktime or MP3 file. There are also new kinds of reels available, such as BizCard CDs — plastic devices smaller than business cards with center holes allowing them to be plugged into any computer drive. Many industry folk, however, still prefer DVDs and VHS tapes; demo reel companies can always provide the industry standards.

As for audio reels, remember that voiceover is not a side career. It is one of the most competitive areas of acting. Your reel needs variety. Each separate clip must be tight and short so that casting directors can hear your range in one reel. For instance, video-game voiceover requires a lot of death sounds; commercial voiceover requires a fast, enunciated delivery; narration requires a different technique than announcing. Develop your own identity, and remember that your reel is just a tool.

LINKS

Promoting Yourself on Video, CD, and the Internet
Self-promotion must be as ever-present in the actor's mind as learning monologues, taking classes, and auditioning smartly and often.

Ask an Agent: The Dish on Demo Reels
What do you look for in a demo reel? When do you view them and what makes the difference?

The Reel Deal
Whether producing your first demo reel or updating your existing one, brevity, professionalism, and strong material are key.

An Overview of Voiceover Opportunities
Vocal varieties: using your voice for maximum value — reeling in your demo CD.

Voicing Opinions Tips For Breaking Into Voiceover
How can you land, and keep, a career in the ever-changing world of voiceover?