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Glossary

Slate

Also called ident, clapperboard, clapper

A slate is the short identification at the start of a taped audition, where the actor says their name and agent; it also means the clapperboard.

Casting directors use it to organise footage. On a set the slate is the board shown to the camera with the shot and take, and it is clapped to sync sound and picture.

In use

Don't forget to slate before the first take, just your name and agent.

Last updated 4 Oct 2026

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