What Directors Really Need from Actors - with Rob Holder

What makes a performer genuinely brilliant to work with? In this episode of The Drama Coach Podcast, Lisa is joined by director Rob Holder for a fascinating look at what’s happening on the other side of the camera. Drawing on more than 16 years of directing experience across commercials, branded content and film, Rob shares what directors need from performers - from being directable and camera-aware to understanding the pressures and practicalities of a busy set. We explore why being a great actor is only one part of being great to work with, and how communication, flexibility, professionalism and collaboration can make an enormous difference. Rob also explains why actors may be asked to repeat or completely change something that appears to be working perfectly, and how understanding shot size, eyelines, marks and physical continuity can make you more confident on camera. In this episode: What directors mean when they say an actor was "brilliant to work with" What being directable actually looks like Why giving a genuinely different option matters Adjusting your performance for a wide, mid-shot or close-up Why tiny thoughts and reactions can read beautifully on camera Marks, eyelines, focus and physical awareness Why something can feel strange to an actor but look right on camera The difference between drama, commercials and branded content Why commercial performances can combine emotion with precise physical actions What actors often don't see about the pressures facing a director and crew How to ask questions without disrupting the momentum of a shoot Why communication matters when something isn't working Being present and professional without needing to be at the centre of everything Why observing a set can be one of the best ways to learn Preparing thoroughly while remaining flexible when plans change Why rejection often has more to do with the casting brief than your performance Rob's memorable "body outline" analogy for understanding casting Why one great self-tape can lead to other opportunities Advice for young performers moving from theatre training onto screen Why sometimes the best thing a young actor can do is put the "performing" away and simply be themselves Encouragement for actors beginning their careers later in life One particularly useful takeaway from Rob is that actors don't need to understand every technical element of filmmaking - but awareness of shot size, eyeline and what the camera needs from you can make a huge difference. And when you're not needed? You don't have to prove how keen you are by constantly being in the middle of the action. Be ready, be professional, observe, learn - and step forward when needed. Rob also shares details of his upcoming found-footage police thriller and plans to document the journey from development and casting through to production and distribution. Follow the project here: Suspect Movie Newsletter A final note from Rob - what directors owe performers Rob also shared a few thoughts after recording on the responsibility directors have towards performers: Clarity - answering questions and giving enough context around why something is being repeated or approached in a particular way, including things like shot size, pace and performance specifics. Kindness - sets can be pressured environments, but civility and friendliness make a huge difference. A safe working space - giving performers room to explore, play and commit without unnecessary judgement or distraction, while keeping the wider set focused and supportive. For more acting tips, industry conversations and support for performers: Instagram, TikTok & YouTube: @thedramacoach Listen and subscribe to The Drama Coach Podcast wherever you get your podcasts. SceneTribe - create your profile - It’s free for life before May ‘27 Intro/Outro Music: Nastelbom - Soft Music 295878 from Pixabay