What is a SlateShot?

If you are an actor, you know Actors Access is one of the most vital online casting services. In light of COVID-19, the importance of having your online presence up to date has never been more important. This means making sure your Actors Access profile is in tip top shape! You should take a look and verify that your headshots, resume, and statistics are all accurate and up to date. Additionally, check in with your representation to see if they have any tips on how you can make your profile stand out from the crowd. We have heard from a number of clients that their representation has also asked them to utilize one of Actors Access’ newer features; the SlateShot.
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At Stage Door Designs, our mission is to keep our clients up to date on all the most recent virtual advancements in the entertainment industry. We know not many people are not familiar with SlateShots, so here we will run through the basics of what they are and why they are so important.

First and foremost, what is a SlateShot?
SlateShots are 7 second clips that can be attached to your headshots on Actors Access. A SlateShot adds a video element to your submission, and shows the Casting Director how you sound and how you look outside of your headshot. Essentially, they are used as a way for Casting Directors to get a short look into what you bring to the table as a performer. Though it may not seem like much, these 7 seconds can be the incredibly valuable.

What should I say in my SlateShot?
As we mentioned above, a SlateShot is really about showing who you are as an actor. There are many different approaches that one can take. Some actors simply introduce themselves, while others take the opportunity to show off some personality. We have seen some actors use their SlateShots to tell jokes or talk about their hobbies. Others use them as a sort of “elevator pitch” for themselves, and talk about the roles they can play and the traits that they feel make them unique. There is no “one size fits all” for SlateShots, and you should consult with your representation when deciding what kind of clips to upload.

How many SlateShots do you need?
We would recommend you have at least one SlateShot on your main headshot. Actors Access allows your first SlateShot free, so there is really no reason not to have one. We have heard some Agents and Casting Directors recommend you have a variety of SlateShots, and to base the SlateShot you use on the project you are applying for. For instance, if you are submitting to play a bully or a villain, you might not what to attach a bright and cheery SlateShot. You could also use different SlateShots depending on the medium of the project. Your ideal SlateShot for a commercial might be different then your ideal SlateShot for a musical or a film.

We believe every actor with an Actors Access profile should have a SlateShot, and for good reason.

Actors Access profiles with SlateShots automatically get shuffled to the top of the submission pile. This is because Actors Access prioritizes accounts that are more “complete”. The best way to get noticed by a Casting Director is to make sure you have uploaded as much media as possible to your profile, and this now includes a SlateShot. Check out the video below for some example SlateShots!

If you need any help deciding what kind of SlateShot to use, or are trying to pick from a variety of clips, feel free to contact us! We love to help clients achieve their goals! Click here to schedule a complimentary 15 minute consultation, where you can ask all of your questions about SlateShots and Actors Access to websites and marketing and everything in between!