Here to help you make the most out of every opportunity
What happens in a session?
Most people will only need an hour. Usually that will consist of 10 minutes of going over the lines/getting familiar with each other’s performances, 35 minutes of shooting, and 15 minutes of choosing the takes. I edit the tapes, and give them a colour grade after you leave at no extra charge.
If it’s 3 scenes or more, you might want to consider booking for 1.5 or 2 hours. Even if they’re short scenes, actors usually need this time.
How many takes?
As many as you like! I think it’s important that you feel happy with the take, so we’ll go as many times as you want. However, I always think 3-5 takes is best. Anymore than that, and you start getting lost and over thinking the whole thing. The first take is often understanding the needs of the scene, and dealing with any technical issues such as eyelines or any movement required. In my experience, the second or third take is often the best. Enough time to be used to the scene and know what you’re playing, but fresh enough for the scene to be spontaneous and surprising.
Preparation?
Again, it’s really up to you, but I definitely recommend knowing the lines pretty well before turning up, and having a fairly good understanding of the scene. That way, we can make the most of the session, and really try to bring a sense of play and ease to the tape. I also know that sometimes there’s barely any notice with self tapes, and if that’s the case, don’t stress. We can get familiar with the scene(s) while shooting.
Any other worries/anxieties..
It’s a big priority of mine that you feel comfortable when coming to my home studio, and relaxed while shooting. As such, if you have any worries or concerns, please just get in touch, and I’ll do everything I can to accommodate you. If you want to bring a friend, or your own reader, that’s totally fine. Also, I’ve outlined a typical session above, but really, it can be whatever you need it to be. If you want to spend more time running the lines over a cup of coffee, or just jump straight into shooting, it’s all good.
Rates
£45 Mon-Fri, £55 after 6pm and on weekends
For 1 hour
£60 Mon-Fri, £70 after 6pm and on weekends
For 1.5 hours
£75 Mon-Fri, £85 after 6pm and on weekends
For 2 hours
“Guy was very professional and supportive throughout my tape, it was a last min booking and he accommodated me perfectly, and gave me the assurance and play I needed from a scene partner too”
Toyin Ayedun-Alase, Actor