Lights, Camera...Send!

At Quintia Talent, we understand how fast-paced the audition world can be. That last-minute self-tape request can come at the end of a long day, and when you’re hustling to get it done, file size is probably the last thing on your mind.

But here’s the truth: Efficient file sharing makes everyone’s jobs easier

Agents, casting directors, and producers often work on tight schedules. When your files are too large, incorrectly formatted, or take too long to send, it can delay your submission. Or worse, disqualify it altogether. Agents can only upload one tape to casting sites at a time. When tapes are too large they take up too much time. The sites such as Eco-cast, only allow files to be a certain size or smaller. On our end we are often forced to shrink files and this takes up more time. On the actors end camera roll space becomes limited and files take too long to upload if the files are too big.

Here are some smart, simple ways to send your audition tapes, headshots, and documents like a pro:

1. Reduce Video File Size Without Killing Quality

You don’t need a massive 4GB file for a self-tape.

• On iPhone: Go to Settings > Camera > Record Video and select a smaller resolution (720p HD at 30fps is perfect for most tapes).

  
  

• On Android: Open the Camera app > Settings > Video Quality and lower the resolution 720p if needed.

If you’ve already recorded a video and need to shrink it after the fact, use a compression app like:

• HandBrake (free desktop app for Mac/PC): A powerful tool to compress video files without noticeably reducing quality. Just drag your video in, choose the “Fast 1080p30” preset, and hit Start.

  
  

• Video Compressor Apps (iOS/Android): There are several mobile apps like “Video Compress” or “YouCut” that can reduce file sizes quickly on your phone.

2. Compress Photos Without Sacrificing Clarity

High-res headshots can be 5MB or more—which is overkill for email or online submissions.

Try these:

• iPhone: Use AirDrop or export as “Small” or “Medium” size when sharing photos. 

  
  

• Apps like Image Size (iOS) or Photo Compress & Resize (Android) can easily shrink photos to under 1MB.

  
  

• For email: Always choose “Medium” size if given the option when attaching files.

  
  

• To shrink a photo on a Mac. Right click on the photo and scroll down to Quick Actions > Convert and then pick the size you would like to save the photo as.

3. Rename Your Files Clearly

Before sending anything directly to the casting office or uploading directly to a casting site, rename the file with your full name and the project or role.

Bad: IMG_2837.mov

Better: Jane_Doe_Scene1_ShortFilm.mov  

Better: Jane_Doe_CHARACTER NAME_ Name of Film

This helps casting and agents instantly identify your materials and keeps you organized.

At Quintia Talent we use a file sharing request link to collect and organize audition tape submissions. This automatically saves the file under the project name and includes your name. When uploading here we don’t mind if you send your tapes directly from your phone without naming the files as the files will be properly named before sending. This makes taping and sharing a lot quicker on the actors end and allows actors to upload tapes directly from their camera roll.

Which brings us to the next tip...

4. Use Shareable Links, Not Giant Attachments

Don’t clog inboxes with huge attachments.

Instead:

• Use Google Drive, Dropbox, or WeTransfer.

  
  

• Always make sure the link sharing permissions are correct (viewable without needing a login).

  
  

• Send one neat email with a short message and link to all your materials.

Got questions about the tech side of submissions? Drop us a DM or email—we’re always happy to help!