1.1 BENEFITS OF CASTING DIRECTORs Get a great casting director There are many reasons a filmmaker should hire a casting director, especially if they have the budget to do so. Casting Directors specialize in locating the best possible fit for all the characters in your production. Furthermore, they open many doors that filmmakers can't. They can increase the value of your film by attracting name talent with whom they already have a relationship. Further still, good casting directors know how to interpret the creative language into living breathing talent.

Casting Directors | John Swanbeck

All of the tips you need to learn, they already know. In other words, if you can afford one, there are few reasons you shouldn’t hire a Casting Director. It’s wise to do so early in your development phase for all of the reasons above. There are financial benefits to attaching a well-known actor early. Now, if you think you can do the job yourself and have a deep sense of belief in your ability to work with actors, do it. If you're a more technical filmmaker who understands film techniques more than performances, consider enlisting some sage like wisdom.

1.2 ATTACH STARS EARLY Attach talent to attract other talent There are very different reasons for casting A-List Celebrities, TV Stars on the rise, trained and seasoned theater professionals or unknowns. All of them have worthwhile benefits. When you attempt to cast an A-List, bonafide movie star, it is usually to raise the profile and budget of your project. While it is difficult to break into the rarified air of movie stardom, if you do, your project immediately becomes something of note and financial worth. But, good luck getting the script to them without a very big casting director. TV Stars on the rise are much more approachable and will give some of the cachet of the movie-star without the baggage that comes along. By all means, reach out to talent agents and managers for your favorite television stars.

Auditions | John Swanbeck

You can use well-known names to attract talent, and this may mean a writer, director, cinematographer, or even another actor. Unknown or undiscovered talent is certainly the most affordable, they bring their own mystique, and you may get credit for discovering the next big thing. Only you and your budget can decide what you need from the casting process, and often your budget will get bigger with a big name actor. But the most basic of casting tips is knowing why you’re going after the kind of talent you’re looking for.