As technology has become more a part of our daily lives, many people have started to use it for applications and auditions. A common tool in the entertainment industry is a video audition, and it is a great way to submit yourself for opportunities that you may not be able to attend in person for the audition process. I have had the chance to use video auditions many times in the past few years. Here are all of my opinions on the process.

1. You get to film as many takes as needed.

When you go into a live audition, it can be very intense. Being face to face with people can be overwhelming at times. Singing or acting to a camera is easier than the real thing if you're feeling the pressure. You may mess up on the words or have to cough. Just film it again. However, people like me tend to overanalyze and film it almost too many times. I have had to film one song over 30 times in the past. Not kidding.

2. You become very self-conscious, very fast.

Although I love having the opportunity to film video auditions, I hate watching myself perform. The way my voice sounds over a camera irks me more than anything I could even imagine. I feel like I sound like a dying walrus at times, and more than anything, my face seems to be twisted and constipated in my eyes. If you had condescending thoughts about yourself before you filmed, get ready for more.

3. You have to watch it over and over again.

Is it good enough to send? Will they like it? Do I sound cheesy or fake? All of your thoughts require you to watch yourself multiple times, and eventually, you will never want to hear that monologue or song again. I watch my videos countless times before submission, and I have never been more annoyed with a face than my own.

4. Editing.

I love editing videos. It may be a long process, but finding the exact moments to cut a video or adding in introductions is super interesting to me. Although I'd much rather be in front of the camera, being behind it is a learning process that I really do enjoy.

5. Sometimes you need better equipment.

Technology has become so incredible nowadays. The iPhone 7 has a better camera than the Flip we were all obsessed with in 2011. On the other hand, the quality of the image could worsen as you edit or download to other devices to watch and submit. Getting a high-quality camera and editing system is not always cheap. iPhones are a great way to start for filming, and iMovie can usually do the trick. I've been lucky enough (thanks to my awesome parents) to receive a Canon t5i and Adobe Premiere to work with my shots.

6. It isn't in person.

Meeting a casting director in person gives a completely different feel or effect of an audition than over video. Shaking someone's hand or looking them in the eye has always given a sincere result from a meeting. You don't get to have that when you submit a video. This could go either positive or negative depending on the person. If you have sweaty hands or a twitchy eye, maybe you prefer to be in front of a camera.

7. There is so much possibility.

I have been grateful enough to have been able to send in many video auditions for many different roles. Because it does not require you to leave your house, you are available for so much more. I may have rehearsal on the same day as an audition, but if videos are acceptable, I can come home, put some makeup on, and film a take for the directors. The world can be yours given the opportunity of online submissions.

These are just some of the reasons why I love online auditions and despise them. They have their perks and downsides just like in person calls. Auditions will always make me nervous, but the thrill after giving it all you've got is exciting nevertheless.