Filming a Great Slate

If the term slate or the verb to slate is foreign to you, it's something you'll want to take note of because it's still a big part of auditioning. The simple definition of a slate is an introduction. It's the short period of time before the acting or performing begins where the actor introduces themself to the camera. This then becomes the "cover of the book", so to speak, for your taped audition. It will be what CDs and producers use to crosscheck with your headshot and resumé when they review your performance later.

Although quite simple in nature, a good slate is easy to mess up. Many people take this step of the audition process for granted and therefore don't put much effort or care into it. This is a huge mistake. Many times, as actors, we're called to play unsavory roles. These parts can have us turning into jerks, mean girls, murderers, etc. If you play your part convincingly, how are the people in the room and the people who watch your tape supposed to know what you're like in real life? How will they know that, when you're not acting like a bully, you're actually a very warm person who's fun to work with? Well, that's when a good slate comes in handy.

A good slate allows the people who are auditioning you to see who you are and how professional you can be. This is a good time to not only show your most pleasant side, but it's also a good time to make sure your body is relaxed and ready to do good work. Below are some key elements any good slate should have...

• SMILE -- Producers like to hire people who are fun to work with. A good smile -- a real one, not a cheesy school picture smile -- will go a long way. Plus, it covers up the terrified face that can sometimes result from audition nerves.

  
  

• CHECK YOUR BODY LANGUAGE -- Sometimes our bodies can bely us. Now's a good time to be conscious of what your body is saying. You want it to be exhibiting confidence. Stand with your feet shoulder-width apart, never together. Relax your shoulders and let your arms hang naturally to your side. Don't cross your arms, put them on your hips or grasp them behind you like someone in the military.

  
  

• LOOK INTO CAMERA -- Unlike the audition scene where you'll be speaking to a Reader, the slate is done by making direct eye contact with the lens of the camera.

  
  

• BE CLEAR -- So many times, inexperienced actors rush their slates or don't pronounce their names clearly. This is your audition time. Own it. Say who you are clearly with good volume and energy. It's a sign of confidence.

  
  

Actors are often confused as to what to say during their slate. Simply state your name. If you are under 18, state your name and age. For example, if your name is Sally Young and you're 12, your slate should be as simple as, "Hi, my name is Sally Young and I'm 12 years old." That's it. Although there are some professionals who suggest mentioning your representation, I don't recommend it.

Occasionally, an audition will call for a specific type of slate that will break some of the standard rules. In those cases, execute the slate exactly as asked. Sometimes, an audition will ask for "profiles". What that means is they're looking for you to turn 90° to your right/left and hold for 2 seconds before turning and doing the same thing in the opposite direction and then returning back to a face-forward, neutral position.

We hear too often how important a first impression is. A slate is the first impression of the audition process. A weak start can have you spending your remaining time fighting to keep up, whereas a solid slate can be like the perfect toast that kicks off a great party.

Be memorable from the moment you start.