Know the frame
A wide shot can support more physical behaviour; a close-up magnifies small movements. If you do not know the frame, ask when appropriate.
Do not become frozen because a camera is close. Reduce unnecessary movement while keeping the thought alive.
Respect eyelines
If your scene partner is beside the lens, keep the eyeline consistent unless directed otherwise. Looking directly into the camera accidentally can break the scene.
For self-tapes, place the reader close enough to the lens that your eyes remain visible without staring into the camera unless the brief asks for direct address.
Hit your mark naturally
A mark tells you where the camera or lighting expects you to stand. Practice arriving on it without looking down every time.
Marks support focus and composition; they are not meant to make your movement robotic.
Control unnecessary movement
Nervous swaying, repeated hair touching and constant hand gestures become very visible on screen. Use movement when it belongs to the character or action.
Stillness can be powerful when there is active thought underneath it.
Maintain continuity
Remember which hand held an object, when you sat, when you turned and when you took a sip. Repeat important actions consistently unless the director changes them.
Continuity is a professional skill that makes editing easier.
Keep listening between your lines
The camera may be on your reaction while someone else speaks. Stay in the scene even when you have no dialogue.
Frequently Asked Questions
Should film acting always be very small?
Not always. Performance size depends on the genre, shot size, director and scene. The goal is controlled truth, not one fixed level.
Where should I look during a self-tape?
Usually near the camera toward the reader, unless the instructions say direct-to-camera.
What is a mark?
A mark is a position on the floor used to help framing, focus and lighting.
Why is continuity important?
Editors need actions to match across different angles and takes.
How can I stop looking stiff on camera?
Practice simple scenes regularly so technical awareness becomes familiar rather than something you think about every second.