Working with Actors & Non-Actors in Video Production

Learn how to get the best performances from your actors—professional and non-professional alike. Get tips for casting talent, rehearsing scenes, and directing actors on set.

Introduction

• Welcome

1. Casting and Auditioning

• Starting the casting process
• Casting children
• Casting union actors
• Casting resources
• Audition techniques and tips

2. The Importance of Preparation

• Knowing what you want
• Breaking down your scripts
• Breaking down your characters

3. Communication

• The importance of meetings and rehearsals
• Planning and conducting your rehearsals

4. Directing Techniques

• What makes a great performance
• Motivation: Objective and intention
• Subtext

5. Directing and Communication

• Collaboration verses control
• Inviting questions and opinion
• Action verbs versus adjectives
• Directing techniques

6. On Set

• Preparing to shoot
• During the shoot
• Giving feedback
• Helping the actor do his or her job
• Cultivating a safe work environment

7. Working with Non-Actors

• Assessing the situation and talent
• Engaging your talent
• Making your talent comfortable
• On set tips and tricks
• Giving feedback
• To teleprompter or not to teleprompter?

8. Special Scenarios

• Working with special effects
• Documentary interviews
• Sensitive subjects
• Working with children
• Directing B-roll talent

Conclusion

• Further resources