How to Film Your College Musical Theatre Pre-Screens: Lighting, Framing, and Slating Made Simple

“Do We Need a Full Body Shot?" "What Even Is a Slate?”

If you're asking these questions, this blog post is for you!

Navigating the world of pre-screen college auditions can feel like stepping into a foreign land—especially when it comes to the tech side of things. “Do we need a full body shot?” “What even is a slate?” If you’ve asked these questions (or shouted them into the void), you're not alone—and you're in the right place.

Meet Your Guide

Hi, I'm Julie Kavanagh, Program Director for BVC Aspire. I’m an actor and arts educator who has spent the past 10 years guiding students and parents through the college audition process. My goal? To bring a little more ease—and even some joy—to this rollercoaster of a journey.

Let’s dive into the tech basics you must know before you hit “record.”

1. You need to be seen and you need to be heard 

This might seem obvious, but it’s critical that you can be seen and heard clearly in your pre-screen video. The three elements you need:

• Good Lighting – Your lighting should come from in front of you and not from the side or behind. This can be achieved with a ring light, soft box lighting, or by filming during a time when you have great natural light that will ensure your face is clearly visible.
  
• Clear Sound – Utilize an external speaker to play your accompaniment tracks and ensure that you are in a quiet environment with minimal additional noises or distractions.
  
• Clean Backdrop – A neutral, uncluttered background using a backdrop or blank wall keeps the focus where it belongs—on you.
  

And yes, all of this can be achieved right at home with a few simple, affordable pieces of equipment.

2. Know Your Framing

Every school has specific framing requirements, so double-check them before filming. In general, you’ll need to be prepared to film landscape (horizontally) from the waist up, with your front-facing phone camera in the following formats:

• Close-Up Shot – From the chest to above the head
  
• ¾ Shot – Mid-thigh or knees to above the head
  
• Full Body Shot – Head to toe, with enough room to see your full movement and posture
  

💡 Tip: Always check the individual school’s pre-screen guidelines. 

3. Practice Your Slate

Think of your slate as your first impression. It’s your chance to confidently introduce yourself before you even start performing.

Some schools may want a slate for each piece, while others only require one for your entire audition.

Say it clearly, smile, and let your personality shine through—it’s part of your audition!

4. Get Organized: Make a Checklist

Before you hit “record,” make sure you create a checklist of all the different elements that you are going to need to capture for each of your filming sessions. 

5. Do a Run-Through—and Schedule a Backup Day

Tech hiccups, nerves, barking dogs—things happen. Give yourself grace and a little buffer time by planning a run-through day and a backup filming day.

6. Set a Limit— 3 to 5 takes max!

It can be easy to start filming and end up spending hours on end doing so. But if you have done the prep work, when you get to filming day, you will be able to capture great options of your songs, monologues, and dances in 3-5 takes max. 

And remember, nothing needs to be perfect! Schools are looking for potential! 

Before You Hit Record…

Make sure you know these 6 things:

1. You are seen and heard - Good Lighting, clear sound, and a clean background
   
2. You have the appropriate framing
3. You've practiced your slate
4. Your checklist is ready
   
5. You've done a full run-through
   
6. You give yourself a time limit
   

Pre-screens can feel overwhelming—but they don’t have to be. By trusting in your prep, planning ahead (and having a checklist or two), you will be set up for success with an enjoyable and (hopefully) stress-free day of filming! 

How BVC Aspire Can Help

At Aspire, we’re dedicated to providing a comprehensive, all-inclusive approach to college audition prep. Our live coaching sessions, personalized repertoire selection, and one-on-one support mean that you never have to navigate this process alone.

From the moment you sign up until your child receives their acceptance—and beyond—we’re here to guide you every step of the way.

If you’re feeling overwhelmed or simply want expert advice tailored to your family’s needs, consider joining Aspire. Our unique support system has helped countless families turn audition stress into a confident, streamlined journey.

Ready to lighten your load and to have less stress during college audition season?

📢 Learn more about Aspire and book a free consultation today!

Remember, you’re not alone in this journey. With the right team by your side, even the toughest process becomes manageable—and, dare we say, enjoyable.