The Camera Smart Actor

This book offers a great perspective on film acting. There are several chapters that address rather general info on acting, but what is really useful is dialectic in the middle. Written in play form, it goes over a newcomer's first day on the set and explains all the basics of shooting a scene, how to prepare, the names and jobs of everyone on a set, and set lingo. This book is extremely useful if you are planning on acting in film (whether it's a student film or the big leagues) and want to feel prepared for the experience. If you're a veteran or even have done several shoots, it probably won't be as useful to you, but it still provides a great, easy to understand breakdown. The repeated reference to set terms (i.e. craft services, 2nd AD, boom operator, director of photography) throughout the dialogue really drums in meaning instead of just being a glossary, though there is an extensive one in back in case you missed anything. This is a must read for newcomers to acting or filmmaking, for that matter.

I have read all of Richard Brestoffs books. And taken many of his classes. By far, this was my preferred book that landed me a 3-day part on Melrose Place.Dream your Dream, Buy this Book, and apply the techniques...Thanks Richard! Matthew Lucas

I never really understood the film making process until I read this book. It is written with a real human spirit as he takes us through step-by-step. I felt as if I was on that shoot myself - nervous and anxious about everything that the character "Newcomer" was faced with and didn't understand. What a relief to have a book that finally explains all the terminology and gives specific advise on what to expect and how to meet the acting demands of working on a set. If you're in the Seattle area, you should check out his classes. He's a very gifted teacher as well.

Richard Brestoff discusses acting brilliantly and tells what we REALLY should know about acting in front of a camera and on a set/location for television/movie acting. This book was by far the most interesting, helpful, informative piece of literature about acting I've ever been so lucky to get my hands on! I only wish I could thank him personally.

Even as a non-actor, I found the comments and information in this book fascinating. It explains the duties of various film crew members, and details the steps involved in making a film. I'll never watch TV or movies the same again!