How to Slate for an Audition
If you’ve ever attended a film audition, you’ve probably been asked to ‘slate’. This request can be a little off-putting and nerve-wracking for many new actors. If you’ve put all of your preparation time into the material, being asked to slate can throw you off. While the audition material is always vital, many actors forget just how important the parts of the audition are – especially the initial slate.
In this article, we’ll be explaining what an audition slate is, what to say when slating, and how to perfect your slating skills.
What is an Audition Slate?
An audition slate is your introduction that begins a film audition. Slating is a pretty standard process for every film audition you attend.
The purpose of the slate is to introduce the actor to the audition panel. While some panels will ask for specific information, most slates include the same information: your name, your agent and the role for which you are auditioning. Depending on the type of project, you may also need to say your age or nationality, or you may be required to show your hands or a full body shot. While slating sounds simple, it can be deceptively tricky. Many actors and casting directors can attest that the slate can make or break an audition.
Why is the Slate Important?
As an actor, it’s vital that you feel comfortable and confident in your slate. Because the slate will be the director’s first impression of you as a professional, a lot is riding on it. If you can come across as experienced and self-assured, you will instantly become a more appealing candidate. Plus, you’ll probably feel more confident about your performance if you feel good about your slate.
How to Slate Properly
Slating before an audition requires more skill and practice than many actors realise. While you may think that simply stating your name and agent should be easy, it’s remarkable how many actors find themselves stumbling over their words or fidgeting during the slate.
Before we get into the various types of slate, let’s discuss a few fundamentals of any audition slate.
Types of Slates
Depending on the type of production you audition for, your slate will likely be slightly different.
How to Slate for a Regular Film Audition
In regular film or TV auditions, the slate is usually pretty straightforward. Nevertheless, it’s always best to prepare for any eventuality. The casting director may tell you what they want you to say, or they may say, “Please slate for us”. When slating, you need to be ready with a generic, well-rehearsed slate if they don’t tell you what to say.
In a regular film audition slate, you should always include your full name, your agent’s name (if you have one), their agency, and the role you are auditioning to play. If you are auditioning for a character with a different accent to your own, you may want to use the accent you are using for the audition, or you may want to use your own. Some casting directors prefer you to use the character’s accent, as your own accent will only alert the panel to the fact that you’re using a different accent for the audition. It’s a little chicken and egg, but often, either option is acceptable.
Try to slate in complete, clear sentences. For instance, here is an example of what to say when slating:
My name is [name], and I’m with [agency]. I will be reading for [character name].
The words you say are only part of the slate. To do a “good” slate, you must ensure your body language and facial expressions are neutral and professional. This means standing upright, with good posture and weight evenly spread between your feet. Avoid any fidgeting or extraneous movements. Try to keep a warm, natural smile and speak clearly and unaffectedly.
Getting all of this right can take practice and confidence. You’ll be amazed by how hard it is to speak simply without fidgeting when you’re already nervous for your audition!
How to Slate for a Self-Tape | Digital casting
If you’re wondering how to slate for a self-tape, the process can be slightly more complex than it would be for a regular audition. The casting director may sometimes ask for a wide shot slate to see your body type. Try to shoot this wide shot against a plain wall. Wear flattering clothes, and angle the camera straight on so your body doesn’t appear stretched out of proportion. Introduce yourself facing the camera, then turn to each profile so that the casting director can see your body from various angles.
Once you’ve filmed your slate, use basic editing software to cut your audition clip together. Use simple, quick-fade transitions between your slate and your audition takes. And, of course, remember to label your video clip correctly before you send it off.
Has creating a self-tape sparked your creative interest? Check out our tips for making your first short film.
How to Slate for a Voiceover Audition
Some voiceover auditions will ask for a slate, while others won’t. Voiceover slates can be a little trickier — in some cases, a slate may detract from your audition. If you are doing a different type of voice in your audition, your natural voice in your slate may throw off the casting director. The casting director may switch off upon hearing your slate before listening to your work.
For this reason, avoid slating in a voiceover audition unless a casting director has specifically requested it. Instead, ensure that you label your email submission and voice clip with your name, character, and project.
How to Slate for a Commercial Audition
Commercial slates are often more complex than audition slates for ‘regular’ film auditions. You may be required to do a full-body slate audition, in which case you should stand in a neutral, upright position before turning to show both side profiles. You may also be required to show your hands. If the casting director asks to see your hands, hold them up by your face and show the backs of your hands for a couple of seconds before flipping your hands to show the front. If you are going up for a role in a commercial, it’s always wise to make sure your nails are clean and tidy!
How to Slate for a Theatre Audition
Suppose you are auditioning for a theatrical production. In that case, you probably won’t need to state your name before starting your audition unless the audition is being filmed (in which case the director will ask you to do a film-style slate before your audition). However, if you are performing a monologue, it’s best to introduce your piece by saying your character, the play, and the playwright before you begin.
Final Thoughts
Audition slates are surprisingly stressful for many actors. They are deceptively simple, making it easy to ‘get wrong’. Practice slating at home before heading to your next audition or filming your next self-tape slate. Focus on standing up straight, keeping your body still and relaxed, and maintaining a calm, friendly expression on your face. The more you can practice slating, the easier it will become. And by perfecting the art of the audition slate, you’ll feel much more confident going into your actual performance!