How does e-casting work?

What is e-casting?

E-casting is a term that includes all forms of castings that occur over the Internet. The tools, platforms and formats may differ, but what they all have in common is that the Casting director and the actor don't need not be in the same place. An e-casting can thus bring great benefits such as time and cost savings if the parties are far apart, or as in these times, when most of the population is advised to avoid traveling and larger gatherings.

How do I get started?

1. You will need a smartphone, tablet or computer with camera and microphone such as a laptop.
2. Download and install one of the following apps or programs on your smartphone or laptop:
• WhatsApp
• Skype
• Facetime (built-in on Mac and iPhone/iPad)
3. The Casting director decides which program/app to use for the casting.
4. With both Facetime and WhatsApp, the Casting director will call on the mobile number listed on the actor's CV. If Skype is being used, the Casting director will ask for your Skype ID to be able to add and call you. 

How do I (the Casting director) record the screen?

When the call is in progress and the actor has activated his/her camera, the Casting director needs to record the screen. The video from that recording will be used for the casting.

1. To record on Mac, press the Shift + Cmd + 5 buttons simultaneously. Under "Options", select where to save the video. Click the icon "record full screen" to start recording.
2. To record on Windows 10, press the Win + G buttons simultaneously to open Game Bar. Activate the microphone and then start recording by clicking the camera.
3. To record on iPhone, make a diagonal slide down from the upper right corner and press the record icon.
4. To record on an Android device, download the app Google Recorder and follow the instructions.

How does e-casting work?

During the recording, the actor will receive instructions from the Casting director and both of you can talk to each other just like in a regular telephone conversation. Often the Casting director has sent an excerpt from a script in advance. The Casting director may ask the actor for retakes etc. just like on a regular casting. 

What can I prepare as an actor?

1. Make sure you have good lighting in the room. Record yourself with the camera in advance as a test and make sure you have no weird shadows on your face or similar, and that the sound and picture are okay.
2. If you have a stand for your mobile or tablet, use it.

What can I prepare as a Casting director?

Make a couple of test calls with someone you know first. Try to record, check that the camera and sound is okay. If you need to change something, e.g. change unit, please do it well in advance for the casting.

If you need help in any way, you can always contact us at StagePool!