PROFILES: IN MOST EVERY ON-CAMERA COMMERCIAL AUDITION, AFTER SLATING, AN ACTOR WILL BE ASKED TO TURN SIDEWAYS AND SHOW THE LEFT AND RIGHT SIDES OF HIS/HER FACE AND BODY SO THAT THOSE WATCHING THE VIDEO AUDITIONS CAN SEE WHAT THEY LOOK LIKE FROM THE SIDE.
The reason “Profiles” are done is so that those doing the casting can get a clean look at the side views of the actor’s body. Most auditions especially those with dialogue are done facing the camera but in many commercial, actors move sideways or are working or speaking in profile.
So, the “creatives” need to see if actors are: Round shoulders, have a large or small chest, have a belly, receding chin, big nose have tattoos, the length of their hair, the shape of their head, etc..
If actors have any body issues that can be perceived as a distraction in the TV commercial, doing “profiles “will reveal them and that is why those making the casting decisions require them.
The profiles are done after the “slate.” The “slate” is done in a close-up or medium close-up then the camera zooms out as the actor does their “profiles.” Simple enough, right? It should be but many rookies don’t always understand what is needed.
UNPROFESSIONAL SLATES
Turning just your head (not your body) is technically a “profile” but is not what is needed at commercial auditions. Turning your head only to a 45 degree angle to camera doesn’t give the “creatives” what they need to see (which is the full body in profile). Other rookies profile mistakes that sends a very negative message is when actors are: Being ultra cutsey, turning too fast ore too slow, fidgeting, looking angry, confused, bored or has an attitude. Profiles done any of these ways make the actor look like an amateur. Why would those casting even bother to take the time to watch the audition work of an actor who can’t even do simple profiles in a professional manner.
GOOD PROFILES
To do a Professional “Profile: Be relaxed with a positive and confident energy. Turn your body to the right at a 90 degree angle, stand for a second, face the camera then turn you body to the left at a 90 degree angle, hold for a second face the camera then turn toward camera and smile. Although you are relaxed, be sure to stand up straight- shoulders back and tighten your stomach muscles.
SIMPLE IS PROFESSIONAL
You might be thinking, “ how boring”. Well, it is regimented for an important purpose. Your personality and essence will be present in your slate and your audition. The profile just needs to be done simply and professionally then it will send the right message about you.
You probably assume that now that you have read this article that you understand how to do it and will have no problem with doing your “Profiles.” Just to be sure, I suggest that you video yourself doing your “Profiles.” If it is not clean, practice a few times and record yourself once again. To see how to do professional PROFILES watch, my FREE video, PROFILES at Master Talent Teachers
If you missed previous commercial craft and audition technique articles and videos you will find them in the archive on my COMMERCIAL page at Master Talent Teachers