What is a self tape?
A self-tape is an audition video that you record at home. Generally, it includes an introduction video + an action video (a PDF of instructions specific to the casting + role will always be provided with your audition request). If you’ve never done a self-tape please let us know if you have any questions or struggle at all with the instructions. We’re more than happy to answer any questions and would much rather you reach out to us than not submit at all!
Please see the link below for a general guide on self tapes, including tips on how to use Jotform + upload your videos correctly:
It’s important to remember that an audition is never a final performance (it will never be perfect – that is an impossible ask!). An audition is purely an indication of where you may take a role. We expect a self-tape to be rough around the edges – as long as we can see and hear you clearly, it’s fine. That essence of who you believe the character is, is far more important than the perfect lighting, sound or line read.
What does ‘shortlisted’ mean?
Once we receive submissions via a Typeform link, we shortlist the people we want to see auditions/ self tapes from. There will usually be 2 x rounds of shortlists – one for the initial auditions and another more refined shortlist for the recalls (2nd audition). If you’re shortlisted at any stage, please make sure to notify us if your availabilities change.
What is a recall / call-back?
A recall / call-back is a 2nd audition, usually done in our studio with the Casting Director and Director. If you are asked to do a recall this means you have been shortlisted alongside 3 – 5 others who auditioned for the same role. A recall should only take about 10-20 minutes (sometimes a bit more if people are running late!) and you will generally be acting out the same scene as your self tape, but this time the director will work with you to get the best take.
Please feel free to ask us any questions ahead of your recall, especially if you’ve never done one before – we want you feel as comfortable and prepared as possible!
What is ‘on hold’?
When people are shortlisted for a role, we usually need to put them ‘on hold’ for the shoot dates.
This means you need to confirm you are available for whatever dates we specify and keep them free for the shoot in case you are selected for the role. Being put ‘on hold’ does not mean you have been confirmed for the job, but you should not take on any other commitments on the same date(s) you’ve been put on hold unless you check with us first.
How long does it take for a job to be cast?
Generally it takes us about a week or two to completely cast a job, although this varies from project to project. If you apply for a casting via our Typeform, keep in mind that if you’re shortlisted you may be required to record a self tape or come into our studio for an audition within a few days of your initial application.
When will I find out if I’ve gotten the role or not?
This really depends on the project – sometimes we don’t find out until a couple of days before the shoot day. If your availabilities change, please let us know via submissions@byrnecasting.com
Will someone let me know if I don’t get the role?
We try our best to let everyone who submits a self tape know whether or not they’ve been successful, but sometimes due to the high volume of submissions and short timelines on jobs we don’t always have time to contact everyone. If you haven’t been contacted and want to know for sure what the outcome was, feel free to send us an email.
Our Database/ Keeping your info on file
If you apply for a casting online we tend to keep your details on file so we can reach out to you about future casting calls. We’ll only reach out to you if we’re casting a role we think you would suit, but please let us know if you would no longer like to receive casting brief emails from us. We don’t always get time to email those on our database about new castings, so if you’re interested in applying for our projects remember to keep an eye on our Facebook and Instagram – this is where we’ll post them first.
What is the difference between a Casting Agency and a Talent/ Acting Agency?
We are a Casting Agency, meaning we work with producers and directors to facilitate the casting process of a commercial, film or photography project. We specialise in location + research-led and street casting, which is why we keep freelance applicants’ details on file; but we do not represent individuals in the way an agent does.
A Talent/ Acting Agency represents individuals and puts them forward for various jobs posted by different Casting Directors. An agent will negotiate talent fees + usage terms and take a percentage of the talent fee.
Byrne Creative Casting Child Safety Policy
Byrne Creative is committed to providing a safe and friendly environment for children. The welfare of children is a priority for us.
Cultural Safety and Diversity
Although all children are vulnerable, some children face additional vulnerabilities. Our team value diversity and do not tolerate any discriminatory practices. To do this we promote;
– The cultural safety of Aboriginal children
– The cultural safety of culturally and/ or linguistically diverse backgrounds
– The safety of children with a disability
Auditions for Children under 15 years
Auditions for any child under the age of fifteen years will be held with two adults in the audition room. This may be the child’s parent/guardian or a staff member. If a child is auditioning with an adult actor that is not a family member, we will ensure the adult actor receives consent from the child and their parent / guardian for any physical contact required for the audition.
Working with Children Permits:
The team at Byrne Creative all have current Working With Children permits.