How to Get Free Actors For Your Promotional Videos
Getting actors for your promotional videos may seem like it cost a fortune, but actually it's quite easy if you apply the right steps.
Let’s assume you have the right brand story you want to tell, and your scripts are ready to go. Now you need to decide who will be the main focus of your videos.
Who will be your actor?
You have 2 good options:
Option 1
Do it yourself. This might be the best option since no one knows your content better than you.
But what if you hate being front of the camera?
Many people do. Thankfully, you have another option
Option 2
Find someone to do it for you.
This is a great option because you can just focus on content creation, and avoid that scary camera pressure.
But, actors are very expensive (if they are good). You’re already spending a bunch of money on film costs (assuming you want it to be good), so you don’t wanna spend a more on an actor!
So what do you do?
Here is my solution.
First, you need to know this:
There are regular people who actually enjoy being on video.
Yes, they do exist, and they are everywhere.
In any given company with 5-10 employees, you will always have at least one person who is comfortable on video, or up to the task. It’s a numbers game. The more employees you have, the greater your odds.
I have a friend Jane who was a practicing actor, and while she was building up her career, she worked at an insurance firm for years. Some companies literally have an actor in-house!
Also, you likely have someone on your team who enjoys being on video even if they aren’t a real actor.
Simply find that person and ask them. I know this may seem stupidly simple. It is.
It’s just a strategy that many people won’t even consider.
There is nothing wrong with getting someone else to deliver your content!
So just ask.
Incentivize them to deliver your compelling content on film.
Leverage your team.
Who knows, they may enjoy it more than what they are currently doing and it’s a win-win for the company.
What if you are a Solopreneur, or have a very small team?
No problem.
Ask a friend or peer outside your company who is comfortable on video to help you. Again, incentivize them help you. Make it easy on them by writing out the key content points ahead of time.
I suggest fully writing out your script and using a teleprompter.
That way, all they have to do is read your text!
You’ll also want to learn how to overcome being camera shy, as that will help your production quality.
Help is closer than you think. It’s 6 degrees of separation. Sometimes only one degree.
Some people may have an issue with using someone not presently in the company and feel like it’s not honest. No problem.
Focus your video around client testimonials. Get your clients to be your “actors”.
They will do all the work for you.
Remember, even if it’s not your thing, believe that many people enjoy being on camera.
All you need to do is ask, and you can have an “actor” ready to deliver your lines.
Now go make those awesome videos!
Just getting started with video? Check out the S.A.V.E.
By Anthony Madani
