Demo reel mistakes to avoid

The common mistakes

• Too long. Two minutes or less is safer, and about 60 to 90 seconds works for most people.
• A slow start. A long photo montage with music over your name loses people. If you use one, keep it very short.
• A weak first clip. The first few moments decide whether anyone keeps watching.
• You are barely in it. Clips where you are in the background do not help.
• Poor quality. Blurry, dark or hard to hear footage makes you look unprepared.
• Logos and other people's branding. Cut around them or leave the clip out.

What to do instead

1. Open with your name, then your best clip.
2. Keep it to four or five clips that each show something different.
3. Use only clear, steady footage where you are the focus.
4. Check every clip for logos or people you do not have permission to show.

Sources: Backstage: the reel deal and Backstage: casting directors on what a reel is lacking.

Questions

Why do reels get turned off so fast?

People who review many reels often decide in the first few seconds, so a slow or weak opening costs you.

Is a photo montage a bad idea?

A long one is. If you include one, keep it very short.

Can I use footage with a brand logo in it?

It is safer not to. Cut around the logo or leave the clip out.

More guides