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Create confident, professional self-tapes that help you stand out on screen

Self-Taping Course

Acting Improvers level

Self-Taping Course

In today’s casting world, a great self-tape can be the difference between being seen and being skipped. This intensive course shows you how to set up, film and deliver compelling self-taped auditions with whatever kit you have, even just a phone. You’ll learn a clean, repeatable process that keeps the focus where it belongs: on your performance.

New to screen acting?

If you’re just starting out, we recommend beginning with Screen Acting – An Introduction. This friendly beginner course will help you build confidence on camera, learn essential screen acting techniques and understand how to perform naturally in front of the lens.

WHY YOU'LL LOVE THIS COURSE

More than a technical course, this is your opportunity to build confidence, sharpen your screen presence and take control of every self-tape.

  • Present yourself professionally: produce clean, watchable tapes from home
  • Make stronger choices: elevate your storytelling so your tape stands out
  • Master the tech: lighting, frame and sound that flatter your work
  • Perform under pressure: a calm process that reduces nerves and retries
  • Understand expectations: what casting directors actually need to see
  • Leave with a system: a step-by-step checklist to use on every brief

Classes Starting Soon

Date Day Time (BST) Duration Tutor Venue Price Booking
01 Nov 2026 - 22 Nov 2026
Sun
10:30-13:00
4 weeks
Madeleine Walker
City Academy, Farringdon
£225.00
01
Nov
01 Nov 2026 - 22 Nov 2026
£225.00
Day:Sun
Time:10:30-13:00
Duration:4 weeks
Tutor: Madeleine Walker
Venue: City Academy, Farringdon
Acting for Camera

Understand the difference between live performance and self-taping, and learn how to adjust your acting for the camera.

Script Preparation

Break down sides with confidence, exploring choices, beats and the key moments that shape your performance.

Technical Setup

Learn how to create an effective self-tape setup on any budget, covering framing, eye-line, lighting and backgrounds.

Clear Audio

Discover simple ways to capture clean, professional sound that supports your performance.

Working with a Reader

Explore how to use pacing, cueing and connection to keep the scene alive when working with a reader.

Rehearsal and Takes

Practise filming scenes with multiple takes, notes and retakes, building confidence in your process.

Sending Your Tape

Learn how to edit, compress, name and send your files in line with casting requirements.

Self-Tape Checklist

Create a personal checklist you can use for every audition, helping you feel prepared, focused and ready to film.

Useful information

Who is this course for?
Actors who have completed Acting Improvers level or equivalent, and anyone with basic on-camera experience who wants a sharper self-tape process.
Do I need professional equipment?
No. Most self-tapes are filmed using smartphones. You’ll learn how to achieve strong results with a smartphone, window light and simple accessories.
What about backgrounds and eye‑line?
We cover neutral backdrops, framing for head-and-shoulders, and where to place your eye-line for different scenes and casting notes.
What will I take away?
A clear self-tape checklist, lighting and sound quick-start tips, delivery guidelines (file types, compression, naming), and personal feedback on your tape.
What can I do after this course?

CURIOUS ABOUT SELF-TAPPING?

Self tapes are a way for actors to audition for a role or opportunity without attending a casting in person. Read our top tips on how to create that career-changing tape...

Want to learn more?

After you have completed your course - we recommend continuing your journey on one of the following courses:

Browse Courses

You can filter Courses by month and tutor

Date Day Time (BST) Duration Tutor Venue Price Booking
01 Nov 2026 - 22 Nov 2026
Sun
10:30-13:00
4 weeks
Madeleine Walker
City Academy, Farringdon
£225.00
01
Nov
01 Nov 2026 - 22 Nov 2026
£225.00
Day:Sun
Time:10:30-13:00
Duration:4 weeks
Tutor: Madeleine Walker
Venue: City Academy, Farringdon

PAYMENT OPTIONS

You are welcome to join the course up to the second class.

ONLINE & PHONE PAYMENTS

Online – To book your selected class/course online, just click Book Now next to your chosen class/course.

Phone – We would be happy to take your booking over the phone, just call us on 020 7042 8833.

CASH & CHEQUE PAYMENTS

Cash - You are welcome to pay cash, just come and see us at our office: City Academy, 10 Herbal Hill, London EC1R 5EG.

If you book 2 or more different classes/courses at a time we can offer you a 10% discount. If you wish to take advantage of this offer please enter 2ORMORE in the promotional code box when booking online or quote code when booking over the phone. Please note that this offer cannot be applied when you are booking two or more of the same class/course.

INDUSTRY TUTORS

City Academy tutors are experienced artists and performers that work in the industry. If your tutor's availability changes at short notice, our team will arrange for a suitable replacement and notify you in advance.

CANCELLATIONS POLICY

We offer a full refund or full credit of your original course if you cancel at least 72 hours before the start of your booking.

We cannot offer any refund if you cancel less than 72 hours before the start of your booking, or if you do not attend.

(For more information please see our terms and conditions)

Want to learn more?

After you have completed your course - we recommend continuing your journey on one of the following courses:

City Academy, Farringdon
City Academy, Farringdon
Closest Station: Farringdon
Closest Bus Stop: Hatton Garden

Want to learn more?

After you have completed your course - we recommend continuing your journey on one of the following courses:

All City Academy tutors are experienced professionals from theatre, film/TV and performance industries. So whilst they're training you they may also be rehearsing for a West End show or working on a movie. We like that and we do believe it makes a difference in class.

👤
Madeleine Walker

Want to learn more?

After you have completed your course - we recommend continuing your journey on one of the following courses: