Lesson 4 : Working with Actors and Production Paperwork
Lesson 4 : Working with Actors
By the end of this lesson you will understand the basics of working with actors
Items in this lesson
Lesson 4 : Working with Actors
By the end of this lesson you will understand the basics of working with actors
Todays Lesson
Why Auditions Matter
Casting process
Audition Tapes
working on set/ with an individual
Actors rights
BFI Policy
Agents
Running Auditions Professionally
The Studio star Seth Rogen won best comedy actor, as well as prizes for writing and directing
Why Auditions Matter
Discover how actors bring the script to life
Auditions show more than just “looking the part”
Directors look for truth, presence, and flexibility
The Casting Process
Types: open casting, agent submissions, self-tapes
Shortlist → recalls → chemistry reads
Working with Actors on Set
Director’s role: clear vision, strong communication
Balance technical notes with emotional notes
Respect each actor’s creative process
Directing Tip: Give one clear note at a time
Actor Rights & Safeguarding
Equity / union guidelines: hours, breaks, safety
Child actors → extra legal protections
Consent in stunts and intimate scenes
Respectful and safe working environment
See more: Acting Contracts 101: Here's What You Need to Know | Mandy
Key Rules / Protections
Working Hours, Breaks & Rest• Actors have rights under Working Time Regulations: maximum weekly hours, rest breaks, and minimum rest between working days.
Health, Safety & Welfare• Producers / employers must do risk assessments (identify hazards, evaluate risk, control risk) for actor safety.
Child Actors / Young People Legal protections and safeguarding: especially for children under 18. Appointment of licensed chaperones, regulated hours, welfare considerations.
Nudity & Intimate Scenes• Any nudity or simulated sex acts must be negotiated in advance and agreed in writing via a “nudity rider” or equivalent.
• Actors have the right to request an Intimacy Coordinator or Director.
• Observers of the actor’s choice must be present when nudity required. Ability to withdraw consent at any point.
Casting & Auditions• Auditions should not request undressing (whole or part) unless observer present.
• No requests to perform simulated sex acts during auditions.
• Self-tape/audition requirements must be clear; job requirements (especially for intimate or nude content) should be disclosed at casting stage.
Agents & Professionalism
Agents negotiate contracts, fees, working conditions
First contact often goes through the agent
Professional etiquette: respect boundaries
Building Trust and Collaboration
Directing = teamwork between crew & cast
Trust helps actors take risks on camera
Encourage open communication on set
Running Auditions
The next slides will cover the professional process of running auditions.
Score Card for Auditions (1-10):
Emotional truth / believability?
Listening & reactivity?
Adaptability to direction?
Vocal clarity & diction?
Physical choices / use of space?
Fit for role & ensemble chemistry?
Professionalism (punctual, prepared, respectful) ?
Running an Audition – Before the Day
Define the brief: character descriptions, essential skills, availability, pay/expenses, shoot dates, location.
Choose audition format: self-tapes, in-person, or remote (Zoom). Keep instructions clear and identical for everyone.
Prep material: 1–2 short sides (60–90s each), character context, pronunciation notes, accent expectations (if any).
Book the day: slots (8–10 min each), buffer every 60–90 min, reader booked, room & waiting area reserved.
Set expectations in the callout: what will happen in the room, if filmed, who will be present, how footage is used/stored.
Accessibility & inclusion: invite access needs; provide step-free access info; offer remote option where reasonable.
Consent & safeguarding: no nudity/simulated sex in auditions; no physical contact; chaperone present for under-18s; follow institutional policies.
Kit list: camera (1080p is fine), tripod, shotgun/lav mic, slate sheet, name labels, pens, water, tape marks on floor.
Running an Audition – In the Room
Welcome & frame the process (30s): names/pronouns, what you’ll do (slate → first read → adjustment → second read).
Slate (15s): “Name, role, agency (if any).” Record a medium close-up; check audio.
First read (1–2 min): let them play it once without interruption.
Direction pass (2–3 min): give one clear, playable note (objective, stakes, tempo, action verb). Re-run.
Option/alt (1–2 min): try a contrast (e.g., slower tempo, different tactic) if time allows.
If needed: quick improv or physical action relevant to the role (never intimate content).
Chemistry read: only for shortlisted pairs; time-box strictly.
Professional boundaries: no touching; keep crew number minimal; closed set if sensitive material discussed.
Log it: file-name the take, jot 1–2 concrete observations (“took adjustment fast,” “great listening”).
After the Audition – Decisions & Follow-up
Label & back up immediately:
Project_Role_ActorLastname_FirstTake/SecondTake_Date.mp4Score consistently: use the same rubric for all; avoid debating “from memory” later.
Shortlist & recalls: schedule chemistry reads; send sides early; state what will change in recall.
Communication: thank-you/next-steps timeline; do not ghost. Keep feedback brief, factual, optional.
Data handling: store audition files securely; limit access; set a deletion date per your policy.
Paper trail: keep consent forms/emails; note any agreed boundaries for the role.
