Between that and being nervous on the camera, unsure of how to perform, and the simple newness of the experience, your actors may have a lot of problems starting out–especially if they have no experience whatsoever.

Here are a few tips to help your actors out.Explain things completely. Let them know how you want them to act, to begin a scene when you call out, “Action,” and help them remember to be afraid during a fearful scene, etc. While these simplicities may sound basic, it can be difficult to remember them when a camera is pointing in your face.

Watch the eyes. Remind your actors that the audience is always looking at the characters’ faces–particularly their eyes–and that they should always be expressive and looking in the right direction as indicated by the director or the script.

Make sure they always stay in character. If Jill gets flustered when she forgets a line, help her to be flustered as her character, not as Jill–and then, of course, to stop being flustered as soon as possible and to continue with the scene. Advise your actors to try and feel things the way their characters feel them–such as remembering a sad event to bring up some sad emotions on-screen.

Rehearse, rehearse, rehearse. Make sure your actors know their lines back to front. Advise them to practice even when you’re not in rehearsal–on the bus, at home, wherever. Even if a line is forgotten here or there, it’s better than no lines memorized at all.

As with just about anything, the first people to approach are family, friends and coworkers. Even if your brother has no talent, maybe he can play a background character, or a person being eaten by the creature in your movie–because, let’s face it, how much talent does screaming and being eaten require?

Maybe your sister has a roommate or classmate who is studying film and would love to get involved. Maybe there’s a person in the drama club who would love to be a part of your fun project. He or she may even be able to use it as part of a class project, thereby eliminating most or some of the pay that may be requested.

Try holding auditions on the spot. Hand people a copy of the script and ask them to act out a scene. You could find someone extraordinary. Try any place, but if there is a line of people waiting somewhere for a local casting call, that would be an excellent start. They are all just waiting for a few minutes of fame, and many of them may have some talent, too.

Try hanging up flyers, either at your school or a local school–particularly in the art and theater departments. Include a number where you can be reached, or a date and location for tryouts.

If you have a website or wish to create one, be sure to post that you’re looking for actors. Include high-traffic keywords such as actors wanted or models wanted.