Tips for Creating an Outstanding Demo Reel

Just like a resume, a demo reel is a vehicle that actors can use to demonstrate and highlight their skills. While a resume outlines your career successes, a demo reel showcases them in action, so casting directors can really get a feel for your skills on screen.

Backstage, a great acting resource, describes the purpose of demo reels like this: 

First and foremost, to see what professional work you have done, so we know you’ve been vetted by other professionals in our industry and have experience in speaking roles on professional sets. And if you don’t have that, which none of us do when we first start, a reel will just allow us to gauge your skill as an actor, which can easily be shown with great self-taped auditions.

Now that you know why demo reels are important, here are a few tips to make sure your demo reel stands out to casting directors and adhered to professional standards and expectations.

The power is in the performance

The most important component of a demo reel is the content – the performances you choose to highlight. There’s no need for a ton of bells and whistles. While the quality of the production is important, it isn’t necessary to go above and beyond on aspects of the reel that won’t be noticed or considered by casting directors. Let your acting skills speak for themselves.

Self-tapes are just as valuable as clips from professional experience

If you haven’t had much or any professional experience, as is often the case with child actors, self-tapes are perfectly fine for a demo reel, as long as you put effort into making them appear professional. Self-tapes can be incredibly valuable because of their simplicity; the focus is entirely on you and your performance. Focus on simple aspects of quality, such as lighting, sound, and visuals, and you’ll be able to highlight your abilities clearly.

Know the limits and specs that industry professionals expect

Keep your real to two minutes or less. Each clip should be about 20 to 30 seconds each. Put your best foot forward immediately, making sure to have your most impressive and professional clip at the beginning of the reel. A starring role in an indie film would take precedence over a background role in a major production, simply because it shows more of you and your skills. 

A bad reel can hurt you more than no reel at all

Not every actor needs to have a demo reel. Your resume and headshot can be sufficient if you don’t have footage that meets the minimum standards of quality. Throwing together a reel from various unprofessional clips that aren’t relevant will reflect poorly on you and can have a much worse impact on your career than just not providing a reel. It’s often better to skip the reel if you don’t have the material yet. If you aren’t proud of the reel you’ve created, keep working on it until it presents you in a positive light.

A carefully planned demo reel can help open doors, especially for an actor with a sparse resume. It focuses on talent more than experience, and can highlight the true value you offer. Follow the above tips and you are well on your way to creating a powerful marketing tool.