How a commercial audition unfolds
A commercial audition often lasts a few minutes. You stand in front of the camera and say your name, you do what the production asks (say a line, react to a situation, perform a simple action), and sometimes you go again with a different direction.
They are not only judging your acting. The production is also looking for a type, an energy, someone who looks like the audience the brand is aiming for.
What to prepare
- Read the listing in full: the role, the age, the tone and the shooting dates are stated there.
- Learn the lines if they were sent to you, but be ready to say them differently if asked.
- Wear simple clothes and avoid visible logos: they can clash with the brand of the commercial.
- Arrive early, or log in early if the audition is online.
The video audition
More and more commercial castings are done on video: the production asks you to record yourself at home and send the take. A plain background, good light, chest-up framing and clean sound are enough. Our guide to the self-tape covers every step.
Advertising conflicts
A brand does not want to see its actor in a competitor’s ad. This is called a conflict. If you have already shot for a brand in the same sector, say so right away: it may rule you out of a role, but hiding it creates a much worse problem.
After the audition
You may be called back for a second audition, or you may hear nothing. Silence does not mean you did badly: productions often see dozens of people for a single role. Keep auditioning, that is how you improve.
To see what the actor’s job looks like beyond commercials, read Acting as a career in Quebec.