Do I Need On-Camera Acting Classes?
[4 Essential Tips for On-Camera Acting]
by Mark Stolzenberg
Why do I need special on-camera training?
Many actors mistakenly think that all acting classes are the same, but they fail to realize that training for stage and training for screen are very different, and they develop very different skillsets. Strong, comprehensive training in acting technique is crucial, but beyond that, working in film or on TV requires specific training and a knowledge of working on-camera.
Here are 4 essential tips to get you started:
-
CLOSEUPS: Closeups are the meat and potatoes of film acting and the most important shot that you do in a film. There are some rules of the road or protocols for closeup work. Don’t bounce your head around while speaking or listening on a closeup. This diminishes your performance and makes you look amateurish. Also, soften your visage and don’t use facial expressions to communicate. Your ideas and feelings should come from your thoughts and heart, not your face.
​
-
SUBTEXT: One of the magical things about closeup work is that on a closeup the camera reads your mind. All you have to do is think a thought and it will show up in the movie. So the film actor is literally writing the screenplay with their thoughts. This is very empowering to the actor, but with great power comes great responsibility and the film actor has to make choices about what to think before, during, and after their spoken lines. This is called subtext and a good film acting teacher will coach you on creating subtext.
​
-
EYELINE: Another consideration is eyeline – where to look in reference to the camera. Don’t look into the camera when delivering lines in a fictional screenplay. However it empowers your performance if you play it right next to the camera. The director will usually give you an eyeline, but if you are doing a self-taped audition, play it very close to the lense. This makes you more important in the film.
​
-
YOUR VOICE: The way you project your voice is very important in film. Usually on- camera work demands a kind of intimacy. We say, “Bring it down for the camera.” Don’t SHOW your thoughts and feelings. Let the camera “Come to you.”
"Strong, comprehensive training in acting technique is crucial, but beyond that, working in film or on TV requires specific training and a knowledge of working on-camera."
A good film acting teacher will help you create habits that punch up your performance on camera and create a viable “ Film Persona” which will make you more marketable in the industry.
In the Essentials Class at the New York Acting School for Film and Television, all of the work is geared to making you look the most effective on screen. All classes are filmed and you review your work at the end of each class on a TV monitor.
In the Advanced class, emphasis is placed on perfecting and polishing performances, creating a film persona, and facing the challenge of more difficult roles. Audition monologues are perfected and multiple takes of performances are used to fine-tune students’ work. The business of film acting is also covered with suggestions on headshots, resumes, creating a reel, and networking.
As you progress in your studies, the New York Acting School for Film and Television also has specialty classes to focus on specific areas. The Star in Movie course helps you learn the craft of film acting, and builds your resume and a reel through the experience of acting a leading role in a short film. The Commercials class specifically focuses on the skills needed to book, act in and understand the business side of Commercial work.
If you feel confident in your on-camera acting skills, but are looking to understand the business side of the acting world, The Business of Acting Course helps you learn how to promote yourself and get work as an actor. The basics are covered: headshots, resumes, casting notices, mailing lists, networking, acting reels, acting websites. In the final class you will meet an agent or manager.
So do you need on-camera acting training? The answer is YES! And chances are you also need to learn about the business side of the on-camera industry as well. And whether you are a beginner looking to get your foot in the door, or an advanced student looking to further your skillset and marketability, the New York Acting School for Film and Television has something for you.
If you would like to get started with NYC Acting Classes, including classes that teach you the business side of your budding acting career, call (212) 877-2219 and speak directly with Mark Stolzenberg, or click here.