Now, let's get practical!

Let's suppose you see a casting notice which mentions intimate scenes. Here is how to approach it.

Good casting notices are upfront about requirements. You might see role requires topless scene or comfortable with passionate kissing essential. This clarity is what you want. There are no surprises, it's there in black and white.

“I don't want to do that!” #

If a casting asks for something you're not comfortable with, simply don't apply. It really is as simple as that.

But… don't waste time trying to negotiate or convince them to change their requirements.

One casting director told us:

Vague Castings #

However, casting notices can sometimes be vague, perhaps just mentioning “intimate scenes” without details.

In this case, simply ask the production for details. 

If it's a genuine production, they will have no problem telling you the details.

If it's not so genuine, they will be vague, they will change the subject, they will try to get you to come in without providing details.

So you simply walk away.

Spotting Problematic Castings #

But no matter what the casting says, very occasionally, you might come across a casting that just feels “off.”

Maybe it's in an unusual location like a hotel room (although genuine productions may cast in a hotel room, especially if they're from out of town so that's not a sure sign).

Or perhaps the production talks about nudity without explaining the anything.

Or they ask for an audition where you have to wear something skimpy.

In these cases, do your due diligence:

• Look up the production people online: IMDb, Facebook, Instagram… everywhere!
• Search for the title elsewhere; see where else they have put this casting notice
• Ask on acting forums — ask us at enCAST — and get other people's opinions.

And then trust your instincts!

Remember, 99.99% of castings are completely professional, but if something feels wrong, don't be afraid to walk away.

Turning down auditions #

If you decide against the audition for whatever reason, do, please, let the production know as soon as you can. This will give the casting director plenty of time to find an alternative actor for the audition spot and everyone’s happy.

If they ask why, tell them. They may be able to reassure you, but as we say throughout this guide: don’t let anyone pressure you to do anything you would rather not do.