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You don’t have a second chance to make a first impression. This is especially true for commercial auditions. The audition tape/DVD recording that goes to the client, advertising agency and director will showcase fifty to several hundred actors per role. The “slate” is the first moment each actor is seen. It takes place before the audition begins when the actor (seemingly) just says their name to identify themselves. Often during those few seconds, the "powers that be" will determine whether they will watch that actor's audition or fast-forward. The “slate” seems so simplistic that many actors give it no thought. This can be a big mistake.
The “slate” gives important information about the actor. It depicts their confidence, essence, personality as well as their appearance. Granted, the actor's physical look is a strong determining factor but their presence and how they connect on the slate also has influence when the advertising clients and directors decide whether or not to watch an audition. Actors who are visibly nervous, insecure or arrogant don't instill confidence. They present little reason to watch their work. Those who are relaxed, self-assured and likeable (in addition to being the right type) will be viewed completely.
NO NO's
From years of casting and teaching, I have seen most of the ways that actors make bad first impressions with their “slates”.
When the actor speaks too:
- Fast or soft: makes them appear nervous
- Slow: often looks patronizing
- Loud: suggests they have done more theater than film work or that they are trying to reach the camera with their voice which makes them appear inexperienced
When the actor is:
- Too perky or "cutsy" or if they have a forced smile: It appears that they are trying to be "commercial" or working too hard to be likeable which makes them look insincere
- Slick or over-rehearsed: They are not believable
- Not making eye contact with camera: They seem afraid and/or inexperienced
- Work hard to be different or memorable: Makes actors look
insecure or amateurish
Most actors don't knowingly choose to do their “slates” any of these disempowering ways. It is usually an unconscious act or a manifestation of their nervousness. If you feel you are not authentically introducing yourself or unconnected on your “slate" then you should give it some attention.
SUGGESTIONS
Bottom line, a “slate” is an introduction not a presentation. Since you can't see what you do when you introduce yourself or how you are perceived, I suggest you work in front of a camera. Look at it and slate your name differently, several times. Maybe add a "Hi", "My name is" or "I'm" before saying your name. Watch the video and ask yourself: Was that me? Did I look confident or insecure?
If you feel your slate needs work:
- Practice introducing yourself to people. Be aware of how it feels. Notice how your energy moves forward, your voice is full
and when you truly want to meet someone you speak slowly. Also, be aware that each time you say your name the inflection is little different.
- When auditioning, (while looking into camera) introduce yourself to someone in the room you don't know (usually the camera and/or casting person) so it feels like a real introduction.
- Be positive and enjoy meeting this person. If you smile just to smile it will look insincere.
- Be spontaneous. Don't lock in one-way of introducing yourself.
- If you're nervous, laugh a little before you “slate”. It helps to break up the tightness and quickly shifts you into a positive energy.
A genuine “slate” helps you make a connection, which puts you in a good starting place for your audition. Plus, it makes your audition more inviting to watch.
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