Many times as actors we are asked to send screen tests as opposed to auditioning in person. There are pros and cons to this process but with careful attention, you can feel confident that you are sending out your best work.

1. SIMPLIFY: Pick a space in your home with a simple background. If you can't find one, hang a plain colored bed sheet (steer clear of white or light colors and be sure it is clean and wrinkle free). Keep your clothing simple as well. No gaudy jewelry or loud shirts. You want them to be paying attention to your talent, not your style.

2. LIGHTING: A good camera is nice, but effective lighting can do more for your picture quality than high grade HD footage can any day. Follow the 3 point lighting system: One good fairly strong key light pointed at one side of your face. One medium fill light on the other side. One smaller light overhead highlighting the back and top of your hair.

Be creative with your light sources! Sunlight makes a great key light, shadeless lamps can add fill light, and clamping desk lamps attached to a curtain rod or broom handle can provide a hair light. It may look ridiculous off camera, but who cares as long as whats on camera looks good!

3. SLATE: Whether you are editing in camera or on a computer, be sure to include a short clip of you stating your name, agency, role you are auditioning for, or any other pertinent information that auditioners have asked for. Look straight at the camera and be yourself! This segment should not feel rehearsed in any way! Keep it natural! They want to see your personality and this may be your only shot to do that.

If you've found these tips helpful, there's plenty more where they came from! For more tips and some example screen test videos, check out my site at http://theatrehelpforwomen.wordpress.com/

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Author Resource BoxLife long student of the stage. Writer, director, actor in film and theatre.Read Cherie Julander Profile