Audition/Self-Taping: Certification 1
Break into the film and TV industry with one of the most essential acting classes in Utah. In this 8-week, hands-on course, you’ll learn how to book commercial, film, and voice-over work by mastering the 10 key audition types and professional self-taping techniques. Designed for beginners and rising talent, this certification sets you up with the skills, tools, and demo reels to get noticed by casting directors and talent agencies.
- 8-week acting program on Zoom or in-person
- Learn the 10 types of auditions used in commercials, TV, and film
- Get personalized training in self-taping, editing, and setting up your home studio
- Create 3–5 professional demo reel clips (commercial, film, personality, UGC, and more)
- Build casting platform profiles and resumes that appeal to real casting agents
- Receive direct feedback from celebrity acting coaches
- Earn an official Acting Certification to boost your credibility
- Includes a free green screen to start filming professional auditions at home
This foundational acting course is ideal for aspiring actors, teens, adults, and parents helping young performers start strong in the entertainment industry. Join the U.S. Talent Academy and take your first step toward booking real work in commercials, TV, and film.
$599.00
Program Overview
Certification 1: Audition Skills & Self-Taping is the cornerstone of your training at U.S. Talent Academy. This 8-week intensive program prepares you to confidently handle every step of the casting process — from understanding different audition formats to creating high-quality self-tapes that get results.
Through weekly 2-hour sessions, you’ll train in the 10 most common types of auditions used in commercial, TV, and film castings. You’ll also receive expert instruction on setting up a professional-grade home studio, including lighting, sound, and background setup — all using accessible equipment. Whether you’re just starting out or looking to sharpen your skills, this course delivers practical tools and real-world guidance to help you stand out.
Students build professional casting profiles, receive career-focused resume support, and create a portfolio of demo clips tailored to real industry needs. You’ll also gain direct access to experienced instructors and celebrity coaches who provide one-on-one feedback on performance, style, and castability.
This certification is the perfect first step for actors looking to book more jobs, improve their on-camera presence, and build a lasting career foundation. Available both online via Zoom and in-person at our Lehi, Utah campus.
Scroll down below ↓ for schedule and further details.
What You Will Learn
Audition & Branding Techniques
Learn how to present yourself authentically and professionally in every audition — from your slate to your final delivery. Build a personal actor brand that aligns with your castability.
Why it matters: Casting directors remember confident, consistent branding. Knowing how to present yourself effectively increases your chances of getting callbacks and long-term bookings.
Set Etiquette
Understand how to behave on a professional film or commercial set, including key terms, on-camera positioning, and interaction with directors and crew.
Why it matters: Professional behavior on set leads to repeat work. If you’re easy to work with and know how to “hit your mark,” you’ll be seen as reliable and hireable.
Improvisation
Practice quick-thinking and spontaneous scene work to improve responsiveness during auditions and on set. Learn to build confidence and flexibility as a performer.
Why it matters: Many commercial and comedic roles rely on improvisation. Actors who can adapt in the moment are more likely to book roles and be noticed.
User-Generated Content (UGC)
Develop techniques to create short, engaging product-based video clips — a growing trend in commercial auditions and self-promotion.
Why it matters: UGC is now a major audition format, especially in digital advertising. Learning how to film effective UGC makes you more marketable to brands and agencies.
Non-Speaking Commercials
Learn to express emotion and sell a message without dialogue — using body language, facial expression, and timing to deliver a performance that stands out.
Why it matters: Many commercial jobs require silent acting. Mastering these skills allows you to book roles in high-paying national and online ads.
Comedic and Dramatic Scripts
Explore a range of scenes and genres to develop versatility. Learn how to shift tone, hit comedic timing, or deliver high-stakes dramatic moments.
Why it matters: The ability to handle multiple genres makes you more valuable to casting directors across a variety of projects — from sitcoms to feature films.
Teleprompter Basics
Train with teleprompters to develop skills in live reads, hosting, and corporate video delivery — all while maintaining natural tone and eye-line control.
Why it matters: Teleprompter experience opens doors to hosting, corporate work, and spokesmodel gigs. It’s a core skill in modern media and commercial work.
Bonus Perks
- Free Green of Blue Screen
- Placement with top talent agencies.
- Creation of 3-5 acting clips to show Agents, Casting Directors, and Clients.
- Free list of recommended photographers.
Program Features:
- Weekly 2-hour workshops.
- Access on Zoom or in-person at:2901 W. Bluegrass Blvd, Suite 250, Lehi, Utah 84043, 2nd Floor – Large Glass Conference Room.
- 8 weeks of casting assistance during your program.
Demo Reel Goals
After completing the program you will have the following demo reals:
- 30-second Commercial Clip
- Personality Clip
- 30-second User-Generated Content (UGC) Clip
- 30-second Film Clip
- Specialty Reel
Ready to Start Booking Auditions with Confidence?
Whether you’re brand new to acting or looking to sharpen your audition technique, this program gives you the tools to stand out in today’s competitive casting world. Get hands-on training, build your demo reel, and receive career support — all in just 8 weeks.
Limited spots available. Enroll now and receive your free green screen studio kit!
→ Register for Certification 1 Now
→ Request a Free Consult
→ Call: 801-688-3773
Schedule of Acting Classes
| Mondays | 7:15 PM- 9:15 PM, MST – Teen to Adults |
| Thursdays | 5:00 PM- 8:00 PM, MST – Teens + Twins |
| Saturdays | 10:00 AM – 12:00 noon, MST – All Ages |
Meet Your Acting Coaches and Instructors
Liz McCaffrey
Audition Skills Coach
A seasoned coach specializing in audition prep for all ages – kids, teens, and adults. As a Director of the U.S. Talent Academy, Liz’s engaging, student-focused sessions emphasize confidence, technique, and casting readiness.
Teresa Norwick
Audition Skills Coach
Frequently Asked Questions
Who is this program for?
This program is ideal for beginners, aspiring actors, and even experienced performers who want to sharpen their auditioning and self-taping skills. Whether you’re a teen, adult, or parent supporting a young actor, this foundational certification sets you up for success in commercials, film, and TV roles.
What types of auditions will I learn about?
You’ll learn the 10 most common types of acting auditions used in commercial, film, voice-over, and TV casting. This includes live reads, self-tapes, non-speaking commercials, UGC (User-Generated Content), and more.
What’s included in the self-taping training?
We’ll teach you how to light, frame, and record professional-grade self-tapes from home. You’ll learn editing basics and how to meet industry submission standards. The course also includes a FREE green screen to start your own home studio.
Will I get help creating a demo reel?
Yes! You’ll produce 3–5 demo clips, including commercial, film, personality, and UGC pieces — perfect for showing agents, casting directors, and clients.
What happens after I complete this certification?
You’ll earn an official certification, build a strong foundation in self-taping and audition skills, and be ready to move into more advanced programs such as Commercial Acting, TV Series, or Film Training.
What does the certification mean?
Our Acting Certification 1 signals that you’ve been professionally trained in core audition techniques and self-taping. It’s recognized by agents, managers, and casting professionals in Utah and nationwide.
How much does it cost, and what’s included?
The program costs $599 for 8 weeks and includes:
- Weekly 2-hour workshops (Zoom or in-person)
- Free green screen
- Demo reel creation
- Casting platform setup
- Resume guidance
- Industry feedback and support