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How to Edit Self Tapes in 5 Simple Steps: Best Tips, Editor Apps & More


September 18, 2024

Editing self tape auditions is a true labor of love (trust me, I know). On one hand, reaching the editing stage feels like a victory because it means you’ve wrapped the occasionally chaotic filming process (I’m looking at your pesky ring light). On the other hand, the work has only just begun – cue The Carpenters – and it’s not necessarily the kind of work you dreamt of doing as an actor.

For actors today, editing self tapes is an essential skill. Understanding that the majority of us want to perform rather than fiddle on our phones, the following is meant to serve as an easy guide. From selecting your best takes to exporting the final file, read on for a simple five-step approach to editing your self tapes:

Select Your “Best” Takes

Does anyone else’s anxiety just spike? Personally, “take selection” is my least favorite part of the process. Here’s what usually helps keep me from spiraling:

  • Take a beat: If possible, take a short break between filming and editing. Give yourself some space between the material (even 10 minutes) to reset.
    Watch scene by scene. Go through each scene and bookmark your initial favorites (I know it’s not always fun, but you got this).
  • Get a second opinion: Ask a trusted friend which takes they would choose. We aren’t always the best judges of ourselves, so an outside eye can help.
  • Trust your instincts: Weigh your picks against your friends, and then go with your gut. If you settle on two contrasting takes, feel free to send both to casting (unless otherwise requested).

Self Tape Editing App Recommendations

Editing your self tapes is fun (at least I think so. Let’s stay positive). The great thing about filming on your smartphone is that you can edit there, too. Here are some recommend tools for you to edit your self tapes on your phone:

  • iMovie (FREE): You’re likely familiar with this solid editing software (it comes loaded on your iPhone). For entry-level edits, iMovie gets the job done and is easy to navigate.
  • InShot (PAID): This is my go-to app, but I also enjoy editing and use it for other work. It’s simple and offers way more features than iMovie.
  • Actor Specific Apps: Full disclosure, I have not tried any of these, BUT I feel it’s important to provide you with a treasure trove of information. Slatable and My Selftape are two apps specifically curated to lessen an actor’s burden. If you try them out, please let us know your thoughts!

Standard Self Tape Editing Format

Here’s how your clips should be edited together.

  • Slate: Overlay text with YOUR NAME, AGENCY & CONTACT.
  • Take(s): Insert your best take, followed by your second choice (if submitting more than one). If you have multiple scenes, put them in order with simple fade transitions between each.
  • Final Card: Add a black screen with text stating YOUR NAME, AGENCY, CONTACT and a simple THANK YOU (it doesn’t hurt).

Self Tape Editing Tips

Now that you have the format, let’s dive deeper into specific self tape editing tips.

  • Map it out: The area where you will add your clips and map everything out is called the Timeline. Here, you can easily move things around once you have files to work with.
  • Trim, trim, trim-roo! Trim any unnecessary parts at the start and end of your clips (such as pressing “record,” stopping the camera or your cat popping into frame).
  • Optimize lighting and sound: Most editing software will allow you to brighten up or lightly recolor your videos, and fix any sound issues if needed. Test out your software’s “noise reduction” tool if needed, knowing that sometimes it can make you sound “tinny.”
  • Transitions: Use simple transitions, if any, between your clips (the “fade” and “dissolve” tools are your friends.

Exporting & Properly Submitting Your Self Tape

You’ve saved the file name, exported your self tape to the right format, etc. — it’s now time to submit your self tape! Here are some last-minute things to consider before you send your audition to casting:

  • Double check: Double-check your work and make sure you’re following the given instructions. This guide works under the idea that you would export everything as one file, but sometimes casting wants each one separately.
  • The name game: Speaking of following instructions, your file name matters. I know it seems trivial, but exporting your file without renaming it is disrespectful to casting. Depending on what they ask for, a tried and true template is: “Name_Role_Agency”.
  • Quality control: Be sure you export in at least 720p or 1080p. Don’t let a grainy video undermine your hard work. Be sure to watch it before you upload, too.

Congratulations! You did the thing and are ready to dazzle casting. Editing may not be the most glamorous part of the gig, but it can showcase your professionalism and help you put your best foot forward. Now try your hardest to let it all go and celebrate. You’ve earned it, friend.

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Robert Peterpaul is a writer, podcaster and performer, who can be seen in films like IFC's “King Cobra,” T-Mobile ad campaigns, and TV shows like CBS' “BULL.” He currently hosts the hit podcast The Art of Kindness with the Broadway Podcast Network. Other writing and hosting highlights include: NBC’s “Access Hollywood” and “America’s Got Talent,” “BUILD Series,” the Huffington Post and serving as the Weekend Editor for HOLA!/ HELLO! USA for six years. He also co-founded his family’s nonprofit the Thomas Peterpaul Foundation, which aims to end pediatric cancer. Robert has studied at the Barrow Group, Lee Strasberg Theatre and Film Institute, UCB and earned a B.A. from Marist College. Thank you for reading and keep following your bliss! www.robertpeterpaul.com

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