TALENT: How do I troubleshoot issues when uploading a self-tape to a submission?

Edited

This guide provides troubleshooting steps for Talent to ensure your video file meets the necessary requirements for a successful submission.

ARTICLE CONTENTS


Is the file under 500 MB?

If your video file is larger than 500MB, you will need to resize it before attempting to upload. Smaller files upload faster and more reliably.

MAC

If you are using a MAC, you can easily resize your video using QuickTime:

  1. Open the video in QuickTime.

  2. Go to the File menu.

  3. Scroll down to Export As and select 480p.

A "File" drop-down menu from a macOS application (QuickTime Player), showing recording, opening, and saving options with "Export As" highlighted in blue.

A vertical list of video quality options, including 4K, 1080p, 720p, 480p, and Audio Only. The "480p" option is highlighted in a blue rounded box.

PC

If you are using a PC, we recommend using Clipchamp. This program is typically pre-installed on Windows 11 or can be downloaded from the Microsoft Store.

  1. Launch Clipchamp - Video Editor and select the Create a new video button from the dashboard.

Screenshot of the Microsoft Clipchamp video editor home screen. A large red arrow points to a purple button labeled "Create a new video - Start from scratch."

  1. Drag and drop your video into the window or select IMPORT MEDIA.

  2. Drag the video from your media library and drop it onto the storyboard at the bottom of the window.

  3. Select Export at the top-right corner of the window.

A screenshot of the Clipchamp video editor interface showing a night scene of a snowy parking lot being edited, with a large red arrow pointing to the "Export" button in the top right corner.

  1. Set the resolution to 720p to save the smaller file.

Does the file name contain more than 50 characters or any special characters?

To ensure the system accepts your self-tape, the file name must be under 50 characters and should not include special characters (like symbols or extra punctuation).

  • Accepted format: Role_TalentsName_Description.mp4

  • Not accepted: Marvel-Studios_-Black-Panther-_2018_-_I_m-Not-Dead__-_-Movie-Clip-HD.mp3

Is the file saved in the proper video format?

We accept a variety of file types. Please ensure your file is saved as one of the following:

  • .mp4, .mov, .mts, .m4v, .wmv, .avi, .mpg, .mpeg, .wav, .m4a, .mp3

If your file is not in one of these formats, please use the resizing steps mentioned above to re-save your file in a compatible format.

Additional Helpful Tips

To ensure your submission is received, please keep these tips in mind:

  • Wait for completion: Always make sure the video upload progress bar has finished completely.

"A web form titled 'Upload Video Submission' with fields for Stage Name, filled with 'NICHELSEA ROBINSON', and three additional text fields. Below is a 'SELECT FILES' button and technical requirements for video uploads."

  • Select Photos: Choose the photos you would like to attach to the specific audition.

"A web form for uploading a photo and resume to 'Cast It Talent'. The page features two upload buttons and a gallery of three illustrated avatars of Black women and the company logo."

  • Agree to Terms: You must agree to the Guidelines and terms before the submit button becomes active.

A "Guidelines and Terms" web form featuring two sections: Submission Guidelines and Studio Terms of Use. Each section contains a scrollable text box and a required checkbox for agreement. Two red boxes highlight the checkbox confirmation statements.

  • Confirmation: Once you click submit, look for a confirmation banner indicating the submission is complete. You can always verify this in your History tab.

Submission confirmation banner