Tips on Acting for the Camera

Acting for the Camera

As an actor, one of the most important things you can do is to make a great impression on camera. But sometimes, it can be hard to know what to do to make sure you’re performing your best. Here are some tips on how to act for the camera and make sure that your performance shines through.

Understand the difference between acting for the camera and live theater

When you’re performing for the camera, it’s important to understand that there are some key differences between acting for the camera and acting for live theater. Here are a few things to keep in mind:

– In live theater, the audience is typically sitting far away from the stage, so you need to project your voice and make sure your expressions are big and clear. When you’re acting for the camera, however, the camera can pick up even small nuances in your performance, so you don’t need to overdo it. Sometimes less is more when you’re performing for the camera.

• In live theater, audiences can see your whole body and you need to use your body language to convey your emotions and tell the story. When you’re acting for the camera, however, the focus is typically on your face, so it’s important to make sure that your facial expressions are conveying what you want them to.
• In live theater, there are typically long pauses between scenes, so you need to be able to maintain your energy level and stay in character for long periods. When you’re acting for the camera, however, scenes are often shot out of order and there are breaks in between work, so it’s important to be able to focus and stay in character even when you’re not on camera.
• In live theater, audiences can see your whole body and you need to use your body language to convey your emotions and tell the story. When you’re acting for the camera, however, the focus is typically on your face, so it’s important to make sure that your facial expressions are conveying what you want them to.

Be aware of the camera

One of the most important things you can do when you’re acting for the camera is to be aware of where the camera is at all times. This doesn’t mean that you need to stare directly into the lens, but you should be aware of where it is so that you can make sure your performance is being captured correctly.

• If the camera is in front of you, make sure you’re looking slightly to the side so that your eyes don’t look like they’re darting back and forth.
• If the camera is to the side, be aware of where it is and make sure you’re turning your head slightly so that the camera can pick up your expressions.
• If the camera is behind you, make sure you’re not blocking it with your body and be aware of what’s in the frame so that you’re not accidentally including something in the shot that you don’t want to.

Use props and furniture to your advantage

In live theater, actors often have to work with whatever stage they’re given and they have to make do with the props and furniture that are available. When you’re acting for the camera, however, you can use the props and furniture to your advantage to help make your performance better.

• If you’re sitting down, use the furniture to your advantage and sit in a way that’s comfortable for you and that will help you project your emotions.
• If you’re standing up, use the furniture to help you stay grounded and make sure you’re not blocking the camera.
• If you’re using props, make sure they’re not obscuring your face or blocking the camera.
• If you’re in a close-up shot, use the furniture to help you fill the frame and make sure your face is completely visible.

Keep your energy up

It’s important to keep your energy up when you’re acting for the camera so that your performance doesn’t seem flat or lifeless. One way to do this is to make sure you’re well-rested and hydrated before you start filming.

It’s also important to take breaks between takes so that you can stay fresh and focused. When you’re on camera, it’s easy to get caught up in the moment and forget to take a break, but it’s important to take care of yourself so that you can give your best performance.

Another way to keep your energy up is to listen to music or do something that gets you moving and shaking between takes. Just make sure you’re not too loud or disruptive so that you don’t ruin takes.

Warm-up before shooting

Just like athletes need to warm up before they compete, actors need to warm up before they shoot. This is because acting can be physically and emotionally demanding, and you want to make sure as performers you’re in the right frame of mind and body before you start filming.

One way to warm up is to do some basic stretches or yoga poses to get your body loose and limber.

Another way to warm up is to do some vocal exercises to get your voice warmed up and ready to project.

You can also do some mental exercises to get yourself in the right mindset for acting. One way to do this is to imagine yourself in the scene and visualize what you want to happen.

Another way to warm up is to rehearse the scene with a friend or fellow actor before you start filming. This will help you get into the character’s headspace and make sure you know your lines.

With these tips in mind, you’ll be sure to give a great performance every time you’re on camera.

Bonus

To sharpen your acting skills on camera, try to take an acting class. An acting class is a great way to sharpen your acting technique, camera technique, screen acting, facial expression, visual focus, monologues, and even imagination on how to embody the characters you take on. As actors/actresses you have to remain students of drama/acting. Your acting teacher will bring new ideas that help you when acting.

So get out there performers! Show the world your talent! Hopefully this article has given you tips on ways to sharpen your acting skills. Check online for upcoming acting classes. Also try looking in New York or Los Angeles as these two areas are known for their performing arts classes for students. 

 

The post Tips on Acting for the Camera appeared first on Bernard Hiller.