Reels, What's the Deal?
By: Nyle Lynn Maritch

In today’s viral video age not having footage of your talents online is like not having a headshot!
Many projects are now casting directly from video submissions. As we know auditions for film and television roles have always been recorded. And now with hits like Glee changing the game, even theatre actors need professional videos that highlight their gifts. Recently, Broadways shows like Funny Girl and Annie asked for video submissions.  And on many casting website submissions without video go at the bottom of the pile. Yikes!

So what’s a performer to do?  Well, here are some tips to help you have with your video submissions. 
First have compassion for the casting directors. Remember they are receiving thousands of submissions, and have very little time to find the right performer for the role. So don’t waste their time. Submit for roles you are right for and get straight to the point. Studies have shown that the average person loses attention every 6 seconds so make sure your reel is captivating, short and sweet.The old fashion 5 minute reel with the video montage is out. So chop up that old reel into one minute clips.On casting websites you can upload the clips separately to make your submissions more specific. On your acting website you can the clips edited together to show off your range if you want. No matter what your clips should be all about you and focus on your gifts. There should be very little of other actors unless the person opposite of you is a star and therefore adds credibility to the reel.

Ideally you have footage of yourself in a popular show that everyone knows but if you don’t here are some things you can do. Go to professional who specialize in making reels for talent. For film and T.V. you’ll want the scene to look like it’s from a movie of television show. For theatre you can have the pros film videos that feature you performing a variety of artistic skills such as singing, dancing, playing an instrument or acting in a studio or live. For commercials you’ll want copy that captures your type and has you selling a product that you love. And for Hosting reels you’ll want to capture your personality.

You can try doing student films and indie projects to get experience and footage. Sometimes they turn out to great. Other times when you finally get your footage you’re not able to see or hear your amazing performance because of bad light and sound. Filming yourself is never a good idea because we have no outside perspective and the lack of production value comes across as totally unprofessional. Put your best foot-age forward to make a good impression.

For theatre professional who have spent a ton of time on stage it can be challenging to transition to HD video which is like a microscope giving light to every detail. So make sure you work with a coach who understands this and can help you do your best on camera performance of your theatrical skills.

Now remember the rule; that you onlyneed one fabulous headshot to be your calling card and the rest of your photos are to show range. Apply that knowledge to your reel and lead with the clip that is the most ‘you’. I know you think that you want to show them everything you can do but they don’t have time to watch it. A few clips will be plenty.So if you are feeling overwhelmed and thinking AHHHH! I have to get videos of myself doing everything just breath! Lead with your strength. Get known for what your specialty is and then once you have defined your niche show them what else you can do. Think of it this way it only takes one video that goes viral to sky rocket an unknown to timeless stardom. So start with a short reel of your talents and go from there.

A moment of truth is all you need. Break a leg!

Contact Nyle Lynn about reels and see samples at www.shanemaritch.com

Nyle Lynn Maritch, is an acting coach & director who comes from strong a background in theatre. Her students are working on hit T.V. shows, in Hollywood films and stages all over NYC.  She has also had the honor of coaching actors for entrance into prestigious institutions such as The Actor’s Studio MFA program and performing arts high schools.  Nyle Lynn has been an artistic director for theatre companies and dance schools.  Together with her husband and business partner, Cameraman Shane Maritch she has worked with casting directors, talent managers, agents and branding specialist to learn exactly what  gets actors called in & booked. The combination of Shane Maritch's technical mastery in the areas of photography, videography, lighting and sound along with, Nyle Lynn's artistic expertise as an acting coach and director provides actors with their dream shoot. Together they specialize in creating engaging actor headshots and customized acting reels that highlight your talents and help to take your career to the next level. www.shanemaritch.com  www.nylelynn.com.