Chapter 05 of 17
Audition Takes: How Many Self-Tape Takes Should You Submit?
One take or two? How many is too many? The answer depends on the directions — and on your discipline in the room.
Video Lesson — Coming Soon
Taught by a working acting coach · Watch this space
Submitting Multiple Takes
Actors often wonder if they should send more than one take. The rule is simple: if the instructions don't allow it, don't. But if there's room for interpretation, two strong and distinctly different takes can work to your advantage — one grounded, one more energetic — giving casting directors real choices.
“If they don't specify how many takes, just send in two takes. That's the best option. Two takes — and have them be the best two takes of whatever version you're doing. The key is staying in concept.”
Avoid the Trap of Endless Takes
Limit your filming session to about an hour and aim to capture a strong performance in three to five takes. This discipline keeps your work fresh, your reader engaged, and your performance honest.
“Don't get used to doing 15 takes on a scene. You simply won't have time for that on sets. Spend your time in the prep. Do fewer takes.”
Technical Best Practices
- Do test shots and play them back to check picture and sound quality before shooting a real take
- Separate each take with a note of the scene and take number, followed by a second or two of silence
- Your performance will be fresher the fewer takes you do — concentrate and keep going
Practice with this tool
Audition Recorder
Record and play back your takes so you can lock in two strong, distinct versions without spiralling into fifteen.
Want Will to Coach You Through It?
Reading is one thing. Working 1-on-1 with a working actor who booked Oppenheimer is another.