How To Make A Casting Tape For A Dating Show

Step 1: You Will Need

Step 2: Pick Your Show

There are two camps of reality dating shows. The first follows the tradition of courtship over a full season, sometimes culminating in a proposal. The other camp follows a couple or two over just one date. These shows are usually easier to get on and feature more outrageous personalities. Know which path you're aiming for, as your tape should be tailored to the show.

Step 3: Pick an Outfit

If you're going the high road with a courtship show, pick something fashionable that shows off your figure and makes you look like a catch. If you're trying out for a vampier show, you want to show off what you've got but not give it away. The producers we polled said that they regularly get photos and videos of folks in lingerie and less-- and disqualify them all.

Step 4: Tell Us About Yourself

Now that you look like a cutie pie, think about how you want to portray yourself. Reality shows want real people, but they want real people who make an impression. Think about what's in your background, lifestyle and personality that makes you unique. The more personal, the better.

Step 5: Set Up the Camera

Put the camera on a tripod or, if you don't have one, on a stable table or shelf. According to reality camera-people, shooting from a low angle can add extra chins, and shooting from up high makes you look like you're about to rob a convenience store. The most flattering angle is eye-level. Some shows require a full body shot and close-up, while others have no specifications. If the instructions don't specify, pick a medium angle- waist and up- without too much room over your head.

Step 6: And… Action

Unless you're very nervous- in which case you may want to rethink your urge to be on national television- forget about practice. You don't want to come off as rehearsed. So hit record and give your spiel. Look into the camera as if it were your best friend. Tell it your reasons for wanting to be on the show- all in the context of the character you identified in step 3. Have fun with it. And keep it short and sweet-- 5 minutes is a good amount of time for the producers to see what you've got.

Step 7: Check Yourself

Check the tape, then label it with your name and contact information. Drop it in the mail and you're one step closer to televised love.