Monday-Thursdays
Pacific Time Zone
7:00 AM – 5:00 PM
Fridays
Pacific Time Zone
7:00 AM – 2:30 PM
An On-Camera Lab technician will remotely record your rehearsal/audition via Zoom. We will help troubleshoot any technical issues, be a reader if necessary, and offer creative feedback upon request. You will be provided with a Zoom recording after your session. For optimal recording quality, we encourage you to record yourself with an additional device (such as an iPhone or DSLR).
Monday-Thursdays
Pacific Time Zone
7:00 AM – 5:00 PM
Fridays
Pacific Time Zone
7:00 AM – 2:30 PM
We will have dedicated hours, via Zoom, for helping you with your setup and answering any technical questions. This can range from help with your lighting, framing your shot, to recommendations on the best equipment for your livestream callback.
Mondays and Wednesdays
Pacific Time Zone
10:00 AM – 1:00 PM
Check out our Virtual On-Camera Lab Tech Tips series and get all the info you need on how to best record auditions from home!
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.
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.
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.
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.
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.
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.
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.
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.
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.
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!
Learn the ins-and-outs of the program’s versatility that can help enhance your mobile cinematography.
Discover advanced features on the Zoom Mobile App you might not have known before!
To reserve a time slot, go to your Member Dashboard and select the On-Camera Lab under the “BOOK AN ON-CAMERA LAB SESSION” calendar. Then, reserve an open time slot.
You can book up to 5 days in advance. The 5 day window includes the days that the OCL is closed.
Time slots are 30 minutes long. You can sign up once a day and a total of twice per week.
Email sides to ocl@sagaftra.foundation prior to your session. Your reader and Lab Tech must receive sides at least one hour prior to the session starting.
For the Auditions/Rehearsals: Please note that while the Virtual On-Camera Calendar is blocked off in 45 minute slots, your actual session will end promptly after the first 30 minutes. Under no circumstance will we exceed your 30 minute limit.
If you need to cancel your appointment, return to the On-Camera calendar and click “Cancel” at least 24 hours before the time of your appointment.
If you have a last minute need to tape an audition, but there are no time slots available, please contact the staff directly at our new email, ocl@sagaftra.foundation, to inquire about any last-minute cancellations.
Be on time for your appointment. Before your session, email your sides to us, have your devices ready to record, and your SAG-AFTRA or Equity ID. We will not allow you to record your audition if you fail to provide these materials at the start of your appointment.
Keep in mind that we will not be able to exceed your scheduled time, so please come prepared.
Must have a stable internet connection.
Please come prepared. This means you have rehearsed your lines and you know all of the casting director’s instructions for the audition.
Be on time. The session that follows yours will start promptly so we are unable to offer extra time.
Make sure to silence all devices and turn off notifications. Otherwise, it may ruin your best take.
Display your paid-up, current SAG-AFTRA ID or Equity card. If your new card has not yet arrived, display SAG-AFTRA dues payment receipt or exemption.
Minors must be accompanied by a parent or guardian. Members under 18 years old are REQUIRED to have their parent or guardian present during the recording session. There will be no recording session without a parent or guardian present.
You are responsible for uploading and submitting your audition. Our technician will not be available to assist you with editing, uploading or submitting your audition so please familiarize yourself with these processes prior to using the lab.
If you are bringing your own reader, please provide us with their email when you book your session, so that we can provide a session link. Readers do not have to be SAG-AFTRA members, but under no circumstances will the non-members be recorded.
Your appointment is only for you. You cannot book an appointment for another member or non-member. You are expected to use the lab for the duration of your appointment.
Failure to show for an appointment will result in a “No-Show.” Two “No-Shows” within 60 days will restrict your ability to sign up for new appointments for 90 days.
Need suggestions on equipment for self-tape? Check out our list of recommended items here.
