Auditions are open now for a brand new reality television show – H&C’s Web Editor Victoria has some tips for those who are planning to film their auditions…
If you haven’t heard about our new show, the Blue Chip All Star Academy (and if not, where have you been? We’ve been telling everyone!) then I’ll bring you up to speed.
We’re looking for a group of riders to appear on the channel in a new series. First, we’re holding online auditions, open to everyone 18 or over by the 27 April. Then, we’ll be inviting eight riders to attend a training camp (27-30 April), and giving all eight an amazing bundle of kit each, worth more than £1,000.
Our panel of judges will be picking an overall winner and several runners-up, who will then be asked to produce a series of regular video blogs for this website. Training, free products and the best exposure a rider could want – what are you waiting for?!
Anyway, the auditions are already coming in – check them out here. If you’re thinking of sending in a video, here are a few tips:
* A microphone really helps when it comes to having clear audio – especially on windy days. You can pick up relatively inexpensive ones for less than £10 on Amazon.
* If you don’t have a microphone, try to stand nearer the camera, if possible. If someone is filming you, they should ideally be less than 2m from you.
* Consider the framing of the shot. It could focus on your head and shoulders, or your full body – but try not to cut off the top of your head or your feet.
* Don’t use professional music! We can’t use it on our website because of licensing, so we won’t be able to publish your video if you include songs.
* Check the background – things like bins, signs for toilets or bits of plastic bag stuck in a hedge can look unsightly and distracting. It might not seem much, but it shows attention to detail and will fill us with more confidence for your potential video blogging skills in the future.
* Equally, avoid obvious branding – if you’re dressed like a walking billboard, or have a big sign promoting some company in the background, we won’t be able to use your video.
* Talk clearly, but don’t forget to let your personality really shine through.
* We’re not really looking for riding footage – though it’s fine to have a few shots of you riding if you’d like to showcase your skills in the saddle – but the majority of the audition should be you talking direct to camera.
* You can tell us about your equestrian experience, what makes your horse special, your partnership together or your future goals – or you can simply explain why you’d like to be part of this new show.
* Video edits are fine, when you skip from one clip to another, though try to make them smooth and seamless – a quick fade out and in can really help with this.
* Don’t do anything unsafe, like jumping on your horse without wearing a riding hat. Definite no-no!
Anyway, hope that helps – any other questions, click here to visit our Blue Chip All Star Academy website. We can’t wait to see your videos.”
Victoria