Creating A Child Actor’s Demo Reel: Expert Tips and Options
As an experienced talent manager, I can't emphasize enough the importance of having three essential items for every actor pursuing a professional career in television and film: quality headshots, video media showcasing their talent and experience, and a resume. Despite this, many young actors have incomplete casting profiles, lacking video content. This oversight can be costly.
Parents often express confusion and fear about demo reels for their young actors. In this post, I'll dispel misconceptions and offer expert suggestions on different avenues for confidently preparing this important material to market your actor.
Understanding Demo Reels
A demo reel is a compilation of an actor's body of work, serving as a video resume. For developing actors with little experience, demo reel content becomes a popular tool to fill in gaps and create video examples of their on-camera abilities.
Addressing Confusion and Fear
The lack of industry standards for demo reel content creates confusion for parents of young actors. Different talent reps and casting professionals may have varying rules and preferences, leading to contradictions. Remember, it is essential to have demo reel material available at all times, and to follow the preferences of your talent reps, as they are the ones using this material to create opportunities for their actors.
5 Options for Demo Reel Content
Recent Self Tape Footage
Use strong self tape auditions as demo material, ensuring not to post publicly before the production has been aired or released. Trim to the best portion, usually 20-45 seconds.
Self Tape Scenes (Found Sides):
Utilize scenes from classes or private coaching sessions that were taped in a self tape format, as they are often chosen to match the character type and highlight the actor's strengths.
Original or Re-imagined Scenes in Self Tape Format
Create custom original or inspired scenes to showcase an actor's strengths in different types and genres. Be cautious with original work, as subpar screenwriting can be risky.
Demo Scenes from Production House
Companies that create demo reel material for actors may vary in quality and price. Fully vet the company or crew, get trusted recommendations, and ask for examples.
Self Produced Demo Content
Create your own demo scene with a good script, lighting, sound, and a smartphone. Research and get ample feedback before using, as this option has the highest chance of looking amateur and backfiring.
Hot Tips for Success
Always have demo reel material available and follow your talent rep's preferences.
Use strong self tape auditions, but wait until the production has been released before posting publicly.
Avoid monologues, as they lack interaction and are better suited for theatre auditions.
If creating original scenes, ensure high-quality screenwriting to avoid risks.
Research and get feedback before using self-produced demo content to prevent an amateur appearance.
I can’t think of any reasons to not enroll. Current content, custom scenes, coached. It’s a great opportunity!
The Two Scenes Program
I offer a program for young actors to create demo content through online coaching and custom-crafted scenes. This pain-free process is conducted entirely online, working around your pace and availability. Currently accepting new students. Learn more here.
Armed with this expert guidance, parents of young actors can confidently prepare and market their children with effective demo reels. Remember, having quality demo material is essential for every actor, and by following the tips and options outlined in this post, you'll set your young actor up for success.
