On-Camera Acting Techniques: Commercials


Become a confident, bookable commercial actor—no guesswork, just real-world skills and practice.

Commercial acting is one of the most accessible, enjoyable, and sustainable ways to break into the entertainment industry—and this course shows you how to do just that. Whether you're interested in commercials as your primary focus or as a stepping stone into TV and film, you'll build the skills you need to book jobs, develop your on-camera presence, and navigate the industry with professionalism and ease. With decades of experience and dozens of national commercials under her belt, your instructor will guide you through the exact steps that make commercial acting a reliable and rewarding craft.

Over four weeks, you’ll explore everything from identifying your personal “commercial type” to mastering the technical elements of an audition and even responding to on-set surprises with agility. Through hands-on practice with real commercial scripts, guided exercises, and video submissions, you’ll sharpen your instincts, grow more comfortable on camera, and gain confidence in your abilities—whether you're speaking or performing nonverbal action. By the end, slating, hitting your mark, and taking direction will feel like second nature.

This course isn’t just about technique—it’s about discovering where your unique personality fits in the commercial world, learning how to stand out by being fully yourself, and building a toolkit you can return to throughout your acting journey. With a journal in hand, a phone camera at the ready, and the support of a working actor as your guide, you’ll walk away ready to step into the world of commercial acting.

What you will learn:

✔ Confidently perform a professional slate and audition, incorporating style, character, and camera technique
✔ Identify your commercial "type" and understand how to adjust for roles outside your usual fit
✔ Take physical and verbal direction precisely and adapt instantly to changes during auditions and on set
✔ Navigate the commercial set environment with professionalism, ease, and the ability to work through the unexpected

Next Session

Jan. 12 - Feb. 8, 2026

Teen and adult sections

VIEW ALL DATES

Tuition

$299

Rates increases Jan. 1

Ages

Teens: Grades 6-12

Adult Learners: 18+

Expert guidance
Receive direct, personalized feedback from a professional artist.
Learn on your own schedule
Explore meaningful instruction in about five hours a week, over four weeks.
Collaborate
Work with your instructor and peers through messaging or optional real-time weekly classes.
Real growth
Develop artistic skills and projects that are important to you in 30 days.
  • Computer or mobile device with Internet. Internet speed must be at least 1.5Mbps download and 800Kbps upload. For students using a mobile device, download the Canvas mobile app and select “Interlochen Online” as your school.
  • Smartphone or camera capable of video and audio recording
  • Tripod or other method to stabilize the recording device
  • Ring light or well-lit area with a plain wall or backdrop
  • Journal or notebook

No, course sections are designed for their respective age groups, either for adults (students 18 and older) or young people (students under 18).

Yes, there are eight sessions of courses per year. View the academic calendar for more session dates.

Interlochen Online certificateThis is one of three courses needed to complete the On-Camera Acting Techniques certificate program.

Our online arts certificate programs are perfect for...

Adults looking to boost their creative résumé and LinkedIn profile

Teens who want to earn high school credit for their passion 

Upon completion of the program, you will receive a physical certificate and a shareable digital certificate. Certificates for students under 18 are accredited by the Independent Schools Association of the Central States (ISACS); high school-age students will also receive an official transcript to share with their current school for consideration for high school credit.

Interlochen Online's Learning Experience

World-class. Inspiring. Flexible.

Meet the Faculty

Amie Farrell

Instructor of Theatre

Questions? Speak with an Advisor.

Email: online@interlochen.org 

Phone: 231.276.5990 

You can also schedule an appointment.

Nail Your Next Audition

Get access to Audition Tapes That Get You Noticed, an exclusive guide developed by Interlochen Online faculty.

A girl is standing in front of a camera filming herself.