On-Camera Labs

The SAG-AFTRA Foundation’s On-Camera Labs provide in-person and virtual audition and performance taping services to SAG-AFTRA members.

Book a Session

In-Person Labs | Los Angeles and New York

A technician records the rehearsal and/or audition, serves as a reader, and/or offers creative feedback upon request.

Sessions are 30 minutes, and the media will be either transferred to the members on their own digital storage device or through a WeTransfer link at the end of the session.

Los Angeles OCL

Hours of Operation

Tuesday, Wednesday and Thursday
10:00 AM – 5:00 PM PT

New York OCL

Hours of Operation

Monday, Wednesday and Thursday
10:00 AM – 5:00 PM ET

Virtual On-Camera Lab

Members can use the Virtual On-Camera Lab either to record auditions and rehearsals or to troubleshoot technical issues with our technicians. If desired, they will be provided with a Zoom recording after their session.

Hours of Operation

Monday, Wednesday, Thursday and Friday
10:00 AM – 5:00 PM PT
1:00 PM – 8:00 PM ET

Tuesday
7:00 AM – 5:00 PM PT
10:00 AM – 8:00 PM ET

Saturday
7:00 AM – 2:00 PM PT
10:00 AM – 5:00 PM ET

Tech Tips

Two-Device Setup

Get all the info you need on how to arrange your own standard two-device setup. Where it’s using your smartphone or another device, most actors prefer this method to get the most out of their auditions. Learn how to best set up and shoot in our quick and easy guide, and you’ll be a near expert in just under a minute.

Backdrops

Get all the info you need on selecting your perfect backdrop for your audition. Whether you’re utilizing the Fovitec (our favorite), a piece of cloth, or a section of your wall, learn more about the pros, cons, tips, and tricks in our quick and easy guide on how to best set up your background.

Recording Sound

Get all the info you need on selecting the perfect microphone for your audition. We take a look (and listen) at today’s most popular brands such as the RØDE NTG2, the Blue Snowball Mic, the BOYA BY-M1 Lav, and a typical smartphone, and give you a quick and comprehensive rundown on how each compares. Let your eyes do the watching now, and your ears will thank you later.

Lighting

Get all the info you need on creating the perfect lighting setup for your audition. In this video, we compare and contrast natural light, 3-point lighting, and ring lighting, to help you achieve a soft-diffused look you can rely on in order to get consistent results.

Phone Workflow

Learn about the basic workflow of editing and uploading your footage from your smartphone. In this video, we show you tips and tricks on how to trim, color, fade; as well as offering a look at the various editing apps and programs available.

Improve Livestream Image Quality

Learn how to improve your livestreaming image quality. In this video, we take a look at how to turn a common camera into a webcam, and highlight the anticipated results using various camera samples, complemented by lighting and sound.

Three-Point Lighting

Learn how to properly illuminate your self-tape using three-point lighting: from placing a key, to using a fill, to the multiple ways you can set up hair lighting.

Two-Light Setup

Learn how to properly illuminate yourself using a two-light setup, including how to arrange your equipment to light the subject and illuminate the background for optimal balance.

Color Temperature

Learn how to match the color temperature of all of your lights, whether you’re working in daylight or at night, to create a balanced image.

Avoiding Glare on Your Glasses

Learn how to correct your at-home setup to stop lights and/or your computer screen from reflecting off your glasses to present your best self!

FiLMic Pro - Settings and Features

Learn the ins-and-outs of the program’s versatility that can help enhance your mobile cinematography.

Zoom Mobile App

Discover advanced features on the Zoom Mobile App you might not have known before!

Additional resources

Need suggestions on equipment for self-tapes? Check out our list of recommended items here.

Want to rehearse? Click here for practice sides.

Support the On-Camera Labs

The On-Camera Labs are free for SAG-AFTRA members and made possible through gifts, grants, and sponsorships.