{"id":99767,"date":"2018-02-27T06:00:54","date_gmt":"2018-02-27T12:00:54","guid":{"rendered":"https:\/\/www.premiumbeat.com\/blog\/?p=99767"},"modified":"2018-02-26T14:49:57","modified_gmt":"2018-02-26T20:49:57","slug":"5-filmmaking-tips-directing-acting","status":"publish","type":"post","link":"https:\/\/www.premiumbeat.com\/blog\/5-filmmaking-tips-directing-acting\/","title":{"rendered":"5 Filmmaking Tips for Acting and Directing (At the Same Time)"},"content":{"rendered":"

Some filmmakers have to do everything. So here are five tips to simplify acting and directing in your next video project.<\/h2>\n

Cover<\/em>\u00a0Image by\u00a0gnepphoto<\/a>.<\/em><\/p>\n

From pioneer filmmakers like Orson Welles<\/a>\u00a0to classic genre stars like Clint Eastwood<\/a>\u00a0to modern legends like Spike Lee<\/a>\u00a0to crossover stars like Lena Dunham<\/a>, filmmakers who can both act and direct in their own projects are a highly talented but rare breed.<\/p>\n

However, while it may seem like an easy\u00a0solution (who better to star in your brilliant masterpiece than you?), it\u2019s also a huge challenge to pull off without losing your mind in the process. So let\u2019s look at\u00a0some practical tips and tricks to help you succeed in both roles on your next project.<\/p>\n

\n

Do The Majority of Your Directing Before You\u00a0Arrive On Set<\/h3>\n

\"5
\n<\/a>Image by\u00a0gnepphoto<\/a>.<\/em><\/p>\n

As is true with most things in film and video production, the more you plan before you actually start filming, the better. This is especially true when\u00a0you need wear multiple hats as actor and director. Both require good instincts and creative problem-solving skills, but you can mitigate risks\u00a0with a solid production schedule\u00a0that you follow to a T. When acting in scenes that you also direct, do plenty\u00a0of table readings, walkthroughs, and rehearsals to\u00a0get everything tightly blocked and worked out. Ideally, once you’re on set, you’ll just be going through the well-rehearsed motions.<\/p>\n

\n

Use a Stand-In When Necessary<\/h3>\n

\"5
\n<\/a>Image by\u00a0gnepphoto<\/a>.<\/em><\/p>\n

Another good trick when directing yourself (and others) in scenes is to use a stand-in for your actor-self so that you can focus completely on directing. Your stand-in doesn’t have to be a perfect double \u2014 all you need is a live body to help with technical aspects like lighting, audio recording, and camera movements. A double also allows you to fully visualize compositions, mannerisms, and movement throughout scenes.<\/p>\n

\n

Have Someone You Trust on Set<\/h3>\n

\"5
\n<\/a>Image by\u00a0Niphon Subsri<\/a>.<\/em><\/p>\n

To truly jump between two such highly important roles,\u00a0you need someone you trust\u00a0as a de-facto stand-in director. If your production is big enough, an AD (assistant director) may be that person, but on smaller productions, it may have to be your DP, your Key Grip, or another actor. If it’s someone you trust and have a\u00a0rapport with, they can give your actor-self feedback and notes and direction, which can\u00a0help you stay in character when you need to act.<\/p>\n

\n

Monitors Are A Huge Help<\/h3>\n

\"\"
\n<\/a>Image by\u00a0guruXOX<\/a>.<\/em><\/p>\n

One of the biggest problems with directing yourself in scenes is that you can’t see the performance. Luckily, you have cameras at the ready. Monitors become a huge help in this process so you’re not just huddling around a viewfinder after each take with the rest of the crew. If you have several and a mobile setup, you can keep monitors turned to you on set so that you can stay in your place and view takes without even abandoning your mark.<\/p>\n

\n

Give Yourself Time to Disconnect<\/h3>\n

\"5
\n<\/a>Image by\u00a0Studio 72<\/a>.<\/em><\/p>\n

Probably the most important thing an actor-director can do when trying to wear both hats is to give yourself enough time to disconnect from one before you try to\u00a0assume the other. You’re not a prima donna if you need to take a few moments to refocus yourself after directing a scene before you jump into acting in\u00a0the next one. Acting is tough enough work, and it requires self-centering and a nuanced attention to detail that doesn’t just\u00a0activate on command. Trust your friends and your crew to help, but take time to give your best performances in both roles.<\/p>\n

\n

For more filmmaking tips and tricks, check out these resources.<\/p>\n