Acting Class Question #5: Stage vs Film and TV Acting

When Acting in Film, How do you take into account the proximity of the final shot to your part?  When on stage, this issue doesn't present itself at all.

Today, more of our NYC acting school's tips on acting for film. 

We recently touched on the point that film actors need to know what the camera is trying to capture, and adjust their acting style accordingly. This requires some versatility on your part. It also requires that you have a basic understanding of the different shots, and what each of them will be able to pick up. 

• Long shot: A long shot will require wider gestures and larger body language. You will not need to worry about parts of you being off camera, but you will have to consider that small expressions and actions will not be visible.
• Medium shot: This shot size is similar to the distance in a theatre's, so stage actors will generally be familiar with the level of energy required here. 
• Medium close-up: The audience’s view of the performance is similar to that in an everyday interaction from life. Stage actors may need to practice "pulling back" here, exercising smaller interpretation of the scene than they are accustomed to.
• Close-up: With this level of intimacy, the camera will pick up all your facial expressions and movements, even subtle ones. Stage actors can practice simply experiencing the emotions for a close-up, rather than acting them out. Many actors find they love the sensitivity of film for this reason. 

For professional instruction and practice doing camera work, check out our acting classes for film and television.