The Business of Acting: Demo Reel Tips

So you've done some regional film and television work. You've may have even stared in your own commercial or have been features on a sitcom. And now, your various production reels are starting grow and grow. So, what do you do with all of this work you've compiled throughout your budding career?

Well, if you haven't already figured it out, it is time for you to make your demo reel. Demo reels are made to distribute to possible agents, managers and also for casting directors to see you in action - outside of the audition room. But how do you make a demo reel? What are some key demo reel tips that will ensure a level of professionalism is reached?

Throughout my years in the entertainment industry, I have gathered many tips on making a great demo reel. It's not as simple as you might think it may be. When I first started I thought that making a demo reel meant just recording some scenes with your acting coach, or friend, and then making copies of it on VHS and distributing them throughout the agent chain.

However, this process is slightly more complicated that that. Below you will find some very helpful tips that I have gathered, and when put into use, your demo reel will be polished, professional and will showcase your talent effectively without being too forceful.

If you can, use only professional footage. Now, this tip is up for discussion among various industry groups. Some say that you can ONLY put professional footage on your demo reel, while others say that if you don't have enough professional credits to put on your demo reel, than it is okay to record a scene and put that on your reel. What I have found to be most effective, is putting your professional productions on your demo reel. This can become challenging when you haven't worked enough, or haven't been features, in a professional production.