Local Holds First Membership Meeting

Members strutted into the Rockville Hilton on Oct. 28 to take part in our Washington – Mid Atlantic membership meeting. This was the first meeting under the newly merged SAG-AFTRA union since our August 2013 elections.

As a bourgeoning local, members were delighted to learn that the Washington – Mid Atlantic Local has now developed into the third-largest SAG-AFTRA local. According to Executive Director Pat O’Donnell, the Washington-Mid Atlantic Local currently services more than 5,000 members.

The well-attended gathering concluded with an entertaining and informative presentation from our special guest, CSA Casting Director Erica Arvold, who shared secrets on how to best prepare quality self-recorded auditions. Members were in awe as they learned various tips, tricks and techniques on self-recording and makeshift lighting. The most zealous of members rose to the occasion by volunteering to be camera operators, on-camera subjects and soundboard/lighting operators. 
 

 
Left, members experiment with framing techniques for self-recording. Right, members learn to find the perfect lighting.

 
Left, local members listen to Arvold’s presentation. Right, Arvold demonstrates how to create professional-quality tapings with an iPhone camera and a 99-cent sound board.

 
Left, local members take a shot at setting up camera and lighting. Right, CSA Casting Director Erica Arvold speaks to local members about self-recording techniques.

Assistant Executive Director, Member Services Sara Bennett and Washington – Mid Atlantic Local President Lance Lewman.

This item was originally featured in the December 2013 local newsletter.