Obtain the sides, or audition script sample, from your agent or the audition website. Read and memorize your lines before going on camera.
Insert a new MiniDV tape into your camcorder. Attach the camcorder to a sturdy tripod or other flat surface in a well-lit, quiet room. Face the lens toward a blank wall. Mark the spot on the floor where you plan to stand with some visible object. This well help you to center the frame before shooting.
Center the camera on the exact spot where you plan to stand by moving the tripod head left and right until the object is in the middle of the frame. Press the record button and stand in the approximate area you marked earlier.
Stand up straight and look directly into the camera lens. Speak in a clear, audible voice. State your name and the role for which you are auditioning. To prove your dedication to the project, do not use papers and other prompts. Repeat the audition as many times as possible to capture your best performance. Press the record button to stop capture.
Connect your video camcorder to your computer using a FireWire cable. Upload the footage to your computer's video editing program. Select the individual audition you wish to use. Crop the footage to the appropriate length of the clean audition and save the project.
Eject the MiniDV tape on your camcorder and replace it with a new one. Set your camcorder to VCR or "Playback" mode using the control switches on the back of the camcorder. Click "Export to Camcorder" or "Export Movie" on your computer's video editing system.
Eject the tape from your camcorder. Use the pre-packaged labels that come with each tape to mark the media with your name, role and contact information. Provide any other specific details requested by the casting director.
Seal the tape inside a padded envelope. Use a marker or other writing utensil to clearly write the name and address of the casting facility. Provide your home return address in the top left corner of the envelop. You may need two to three stamps for large envelopes, depending on weight.