On-Camera Acting Techniques
Expert-defined terms from the Executive Certificate in Acting for Film and Television course at UK School of Management. Free to read, free to share, paired with a globally recognised certification pathway.
Actor's Checklist #
Actor's Checklist
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An essential tool for on #
camera acting, an actor's checklist includes all the necessary elements for a successful performance. These elements may include:
* Knowledge of the script and character #
* Knowledge of the script and character
* Proper wardrobe and props #
* Proper wardrobe and props
* Knowledge of blocking and marks #
* Knowledge of blocking and marks
* Emotional preparation #
* Emotional preparation
* Connection with the scene partner #
* Connection with the scene partner
* Awareness of the camera and its placement #
* Awareness of the camera and its placement
Backstory #
Backstory
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A backstory is the history of a character's life before the events of the script #
It includes their family, education, relationships, and experiences that shape their motivations and actions in the story. Actors use backstory to create a fully realized and believable character.
Blocking #
Blocking
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Blocking refers to the physical movement of actors within a scene #
It is planned and rehearsed to ensure the most visually and emotionally effective staging. Actors must be aware of their marks, or specific points on the set where they need to be for each shot.
Camera Angles #
Camera Angles
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Camera angles refer to the position of the camera in relation to the subject #
Different angles can evoke different emotions and perspectives. For example, a high angle can make a character appear vulnerable, while a low angle can make them appear powerful.
Camera Placement #
Camera Placement
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Camera placement refers to the specific location of the camera in relation to th… #
Actors must be aware of the camera's placement to adjust their performance accordingly. For example, if the camera is close up, the actor must adjust their facial expressions and body language to convey the desired emotion.
Character Development #
Character Development
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Character development is the process of creating a believable and fully realized… #
Actors use various techniques, such as backstory, motivation, and objective, to develop their character.
Cold Reading #
Cold Reading
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Cold reading is the act of reading and performing a script without prior prepara… #
Actors may be asked to cold read during auditions or rehearsals.
Continuity #
Continuity
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Continuity refers to the consistency of elements within a scene, such as props,… #
Actors must maintain continuity to ensure a smooth and believable performance.
Emotional Preparation #
Emotional Preparation
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Emotional preparation is the process of preparing oneself emotionally for a scen… #
Actors use various techniques, such as sensory recall and emotional memory, to evoke the desired emotion.
Eyeline #
Eyeline
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Eyeline refers to the point where an actor is looking while performing #
Actors must maintain a consistent eyeline to ensure continuity and believability.
Framing #
Framing
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Framing refers to the way the subject is positioned within the camera's viewfind… #
Actors must be aware of their framing to ensure the most visually effective performance.
Improvisation #
Improvisation
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Improvisation is the act of creating and performing a scene or dialogue without… #
Actors use improvisation to explore their character and develop their skills.
Marks #
Marks
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Marks are specific points on the set where actors need to be for each shot #
Actors must hit their marks to ensure continuity and the most visually effective performance.
Motivation #
Motivation
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Motivation refers to the driving force behind a character's actions and decision… #
Actors use motivation to create a believable and fully realized character.
Objective #
Objective
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Objective refers to a character's goal or desire in a scene #
Actors use objective to guide their performance and create a believable and engaging character.
On #
Camera Acting
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On #
camera acting refers to the art of performing for film and television. It requires adjusting one's performance for the camera and maintaining continuity.
Point of View #
Point of View
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Point of view refers to the perspective from which a scene is viewed #
Actors must be aware of the camera's point of view to adjust their performance accordingly.
Professional Attire #
Professional Attire
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Professional attire refers to the appropriate clothing and grooming for an audit… #
Actors should dress in a way that does not distract from their performance and shows respect for the casting director or director.
Props #
Props
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Props are objects used by actors in a scene #
Actors must be familiar with their props and use them consistently to ensure continuity.
Rehearsal #
Rehearsal
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Rehearsal is the process of practicing and refining a performance #
Actors use rehearsals to explore their character, develop their skills, and prepare for filming.
Scene Partner #
Scene Partner
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Sensory Recall #
Sensory Recall
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Sensory recall is the technique of recalling a past experience to evoke a specif… #
Actors use sensory recall to prepare emotionally for a scene.
Shot Size #
Shot Size
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Shot size refers to the size of the subject within the camera's viewfinder #
Actors must adjust their performance for different shot sizes to ensure the most visually effective performance.
Slating #
Slating
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Slating is the act of introducing oneself and the scene being filmed at the begi… #
Actors must speak clearly and confidently while slating.
Staging #
Staging
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Staging refers to the overall placement and movement of actors within a scene #
Actors must be aware of the staging to ensure the most visually and emotionally effective performance.
Take #
Take
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A take is a single recording of a scene #
Actors must maintain continuity and consistency throughout each take.
Wardrobe #
Wardrobe
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Wardrobe refers to the clothing worn by actors in a scene #
Actors must wear appropriate and consistent wardrobe to ensure continuity and believability.
### Glossary Terms #
Over 3000 Words
The glossary terms provided include essential concepts and techniques for on #
camera acting. Actors must be familiar with these terms to create a believable and engaging performance. The terms cover a range of topics, including emotional preparation, camera placement, and continuity. By understanding and applying these terms, actors can enhance their skills and succeed in the film and television industry.
### Emotional Preparation #
### Emotional Preparation
Emotional preparation is the process of preparing oneself emotionally for a scen… #
Actors use various techniques, such as sensory recall and emotional memory, to evoke the desired emotion. Sensory recall is the technique of recalling a past experience to evoke a specific emotion. Actors use sensory recall to prepare emotionally for a scene. Emotional memory is the act of recalling a personal experience that evokes a similar emotion to the one needed for the scene. Actors use emotional memory to create a deep and authentic emotional connection to their character.
### Camera Placement #
### Camera Placement
Camera placement refers to the specific location of the camera in relation to th… #
Actors must be aware of the camera's placement to adjust their performance accordingly. For example, if the camera is close up, the actor must adjust their facial expressions and body language to convey the desired emotion. Different camera angles can evoke different emotions and perspectives. For example, a high angle can make a character appear vulnerable, while a low angle can make them appear powerful.
### Continuity #
### Continuity
Continuity refers to the consistency of elements within a scene, such as props,… #
Actors must maintain continuity to ensure a smooth and believable performance. Maintaining continuity is essential for a seamless edit. Actors must ensure that their hair, makeup, and