Stop thinking about it and work with Jon. There are no words to describe how incredible he is as both a teacher and an actor. I recently took his Self Tape Mastery 3-Day Intensive and WOW. I truly cannot recommend it enough. I've been acting for a few years now (mainly commercials and short films) and I had always wanted to train with Jon. But to be honest, I was pretty intimidated because I know many of his clients are booking major projects. I went into the class so nervous I wouldn't measure up, but I felt at ease immediately and couldn't stop thinking, "Why didn't I do this sooner?!?" Jon is INCREDIBLY knowledgeable about the industry and the amount of insight he shares is invaluable. My mind seriously was racing trying to absorb everything. Plus, he creates such a welcoming and supportive environment. He tells it like it is (something I've been searching for in an acting teacher for years), but in a way that makes you feel empowered and capable. I genuinely didn't want the class to end. And yes, by the end of the three days, I walked out as a stronger actor and I promise you will too. Jon is also one of the most supportive people you'll meet. He'll be your biggest cheerleader and is the kind of coach who simply wants to see his students succeed. In fact, I went back to tape an audition with him just a few days later, which was another fantastic experience. He really is a one-in-a-million coach and LA is lucky to have him. I'm already looking forward to getting back into his studio again soon. So if you're considering working with Jon, take the leap and invest in yourself. You'll walk away with priceless knowledge and guidance from one of the best. read more

I've been following Jonathan's IG for awhile now -- the self tapes he posts of his auditions and other actors grab your attention instantly. I had saved his name as a place I would try if I ever got a big audition. I did get two auditions for two shorts that are going to be showcased at Tribeca (should have gone to him!). I saw that he was offering an On-Camera Self Tape Mastery 3-day Intensive. He doesn't offer classes frequently so I jumped at the chance to get in. These classes fill up fast as I believe it's a max of 6 students. I was extremely nervous because I knew I was going to be the most green actor there. And his clients book big jobs so I was expecting he was going to be super tough on me. But Jonathan created such a safe environment to have fun and that it's okay to make mistakes and learn. Each day he shares his wisdom and every person gets in front of the camera. You also get the tape from each day so you can see your progress. I enjoyed his easy-going, no-BS teaching approach. Just from the three days with him, I can tell that he is a great acting coach, reader and that he really cares for his clients and want them all to win. He treats his client's auditions as if he was the one auditioning and gives his 110%. So not only do the tapes visually look amazing, he will pull the best he can out of you. As far as parking, if it's the evening 5-8PM class, there are at least 4 metered parking right in front of his studio and more across the street and a few blocks away. Two out of three days, we were able to grab a spot right in front. It's 2 hours metered parking, but he will remind you close to the 2 hour mark to go fill the meters. I believe it's $1/hr (which isn't bad considering for LA). I can't wait to do self-tapes here! Go here and you won't regret it ! read more

Hot Shots Self Taping - Specialty Schools Near Me - Studio City, California

I cannot say enough good things about Jon as an acting teacher and an overall person. From the very first class, he created an environment that felt supportive, inspiring, and truly professional. He has an incredible way of pushing you out of your comfort zone while still making you feel safe to take risks and explore. Jon doesn't just teach techniques he really helps you understand the craft on a deeper level. He breaks things down in a way that makes complex concepts click and seem effortless and he tailors his guidance to each actor's unique strengths and areas of growth. Every class feels purposeful, insightful and I always walk away with new tools and a better understanding of myself as an actor. What sets Jon apart is his passion and dedication. He genuinely cares about his students' progress and goes above and beyond to make sure you're ready for auditions, performances, and the industry as a whole. He truly wants you to win in this industry. His feedback is always honest, specific, and motivating. Since working with Jon, I've noticed a huge difference in my confidence, range, and overall presence as an actor. If you're serious about your craft and want to learn from someone who not only teaches but truly inspires, and cares about you Jon is the person you need in your corner. read more

I saw Jon's classes on instagram and needed to see for myself if his coaching was transformative. I flew in from Texas and don't regret a thing! The standard of how I do my auditions has gone up immensely from just 3 classes at Hot Shots Self Taping. Thank you!! read more

Was quoted their prices and I'm furious. How could an actor with minimal experience and a shady instagram who promotes props charge actors this kind of money. Actors are not expected to pay for tapes but he makes them think they should. It's gross Update they responded that they don't accept reviews from non clients but they post advice on IG and I received prices. Why if you have public info and want business can I not comment? read more

For the past 2 years I've been coaching through zoom. I was looking for an in person class to take and I luckily came across hot shots self taping. I'm extremely grateful to have met Jonathan. The guy preaches what he teaches and stands by it. He is profound and has amazing insight. His space is welcoming and productive. After taking his self tape mastery class, I felt that I grew as an actor! I applied his teachings to my craft and have gotten feedback and callbacks. Jonathan cares about the actors that come into his studio. read more

Well from the looks of his IG account you would think anyone can pay to take his classes correct? All he promotes there is welcoming in new clients. what actually happens when you try to take his classes? ill tell you. First, after a bit of going back and forth on my part, cuz I was asking questions to figure out what would be best for me, i was told that Jon was "too busy" to take on any actual coaching. So i settled on doing a self tape review for a half hour, and for a canadian, that's a little over $200. I didn't even get the full half hour because we started the call late because they asked me to send a zoom invitation, which for the price im paying why am I having to do that? but anyways i tried my best having never made one before and it didn't work so he asked me to just call him. He didn't even have my self tape pulled up already so it took time for him to find it. then when he finally found it he made some comments and then said" i could keep going but do you really want me to?" and i said no actually i would love coaching but your assistant told me you were too busy to take on more people. He told me he was, but that he would make space for me and take me on anyways, now that he's met me, which i thought was really awesome but was sad because I felt like my 200+ half hour was wasted. So now im asking details about the classes and he tells me its better to come to LA to take his three day classes which were 695 American and i said I can't because that's too much money for me converted to CAD plus travel , stay and expenses. So i settled on taking virtual classes with him which i assumed would also be three days. We started our first class which was 300 for an hour. Again i felt like he was trying to waste time with small talk and random things. Then he asks me "what are we working on?" For 300 i would assume you have criteria and an agenda not just coming in not having a plan. So i said i did have a script we could do and he said he had a better script in mind for me which i agreed to. He did give me some pointers, nothing to crazy or too insightful and told me to work on it and book another session for the week after. He also told me somethings i do should do differently like get another set of headshots, get an agent and try to go for my actra. I asked him to help me with finding someone to get headshots from here in Toronto and he agreed he would. He also said he would help me film a demo reel viritually if i wanted, obviously for more $. So that whole week im working on the script and wanted to book another Session but his assistant tells me i have to pay for the first one before i can book the next one and i agreed and payed it. Then when i try to book the next one, the booking gets declined. I messaged him to ask why , maybe it was just the time he couldnt do, and i got crickets. I messaged his assistant to ask why, the reply i received was " Jonathan is at capacity and has to limit his virtual clients. He's requiring all clients pay up to 10 sessions in advance." Im thinking why would he be at capacity now , after accepting me and putting me on his list? Why make that promise and commitment to someone and then ask for more money or kick them out? To me that's unprofessional and literally just a money grab and someone who doesn't actually care about his clients and just wants their money. I was so devastated because after spending $500+ and had nothing to show for it and had been practicing on a script all week for absolutely no reason, and i was getting the shortest end of the stick all because he decided he wants to grab at the most money he can, and if you ask me, that was probably the plan all along. Get the money, waste time on the virtual calls, make promises and give as little help as possible and then demand a 10 session advance pay or get fucked in the butt. And when i messaged him to see if there was a misunderstanding or why this was happening ? I got "Yeah I'm super busy and we have restructured." No remorse whatsoever and basically just telling me to fuck off. Super disappointed in this whole experience and how much i had to pay for what i got. And if i were anyone reading this I wouldn't even waste my time because this is someone who clearly does not care about his fellow actor anymore. Yes the other reviews are great, because I'm sure at one point he actually cared. But it's apparent its all a money grab now and there is no respect for people , their time , craft and money. I think about this every day since It happened and it makes me so sad and so angry that people think this is okay to do someone. read more

Jonathan is an exceptional coach and actor. I had the pleasure of taking part in his masterclass this week after doing a few coaching sessions and it was the best decision ever. His attention to detail, his ways to transform, his approach to think and do outside the box is mindblowing. You can tell he wants you to WIN and to WIN together. I am completed inspired in every way. Yasmeen is an EXCELLENT reader, the way she dials in and connects with you will elevate your performance drastically. My first ever session was with Yaz and I'm so grateful to have met and worked with both of them. They are both so genuine, passionate and ready to help you achieve that next level. Moving from London to LA and learning the ropes here is a whole new game and I'm soooo thankful to have discovered Hotshots (thank you Instagram) I am SO excited for the next session I take with Hotshots. Superb. - Eve-Yasmine read more

I love Hot Shots. Excellence at its finest. The self tape looked so Cinematic..Yasmeen was amazing to work with helped me deliver one of the best scenes I have ever done. Good hearts and beautiful team inside and out. With Gratitude Dominique Nicole read more

Just finished up Jon's Self Tape Mastery Class and I can't say enough good things. Had heard about him for a while and finally decided to go give his class I try. My only regret is not doing it sooner. He is incredibly generous as a coach, artist, and human. His feedback is honest and constructive while still being kind. I saw more growth from this one class than I ever could have imagined. I highly recommend. read more

Took my son to Hotshot Selftaping for the first time, and we're thrilled we found them through my son's awesome manager's Instagram. Jonathan was amazing - kind, down-to-earth, and pro. He gave top-notch coaching and great footage. You just feel in good hands when you walk in. Thanks for making my son's day so special. We left feeling hopeful and grateful . Definitely worth the trip, we definitely are coming back and you're now one of my son's favorites! Thank you read more

I recommend Hot Shots! My auditions were vague and general before checking out a self-tape class here, even after going to a handful of other schools and classes. Since joining, I have a strong technique and approach that is applicable for film/tv auditions, callbacks, and being on set. If you're like me and you want to stand out in your auditions, looking for something new, then try Hot Shots. read more

Sacred Space, Athletic Space, John knows what he's doing and he really cares. Had a wonderful time playing with him. Go if you want to level up your game. Had a blast! read more

My first time I did a self tape here and I will definitely be back! Met Yasmeen and Jonathan today and they were so kind and professional. The studio is so great to work in....it's clean, cozy and private with quality equipment. They really do make sure you have a great audition. Loved it! read more

The quality tapes at Hot Shots Self Taping are amazing! Jon and Yasmeen are the nicest, friendliest, most professional people you will ever meet. I do all of my theatrical auditions here and even booked a lead in a feature film because of a self tape I did here. I appreciate you guys, thank you!! read more

Hot Shots Self Taping - Specialty Schools Near Me - Studio City, California

Jon is the man! Super professional, accommodating, with a quick turn around. The footage is a very high quality! Jon saved the day for me. I had a complicated self tape due in a quick turnaround. I couldn't find a reader, so I called Jon. He found time for me in his schedule, fit me in on short notice, and accommodated the quick turn around for the casting director. Then, on another occasion, I got some sides that I couldn't quite "crack". Jon's suggestions were extremely helpful and really helped me turn in a great audition! His prices are very reasonable for the quality of service that he offers. If you're looking for some high quality self tape, or if you need some coaching, or if you have a "big" audition that you want to knock out of the park, I could not recommend Jon more. Thanks for everything. read more

Amazing, amazing, amazing! Yasmeen and Jonathan are professional, experienced, patient, and lovely in every way. Their dog is the cutest too! My son loved working with Hot Shots and their coaching was excellent. Scheduling is easy and convenient, the studio is pristine, and their turn around time is quick! Thank you so much, Hot Shots!! We will definitely be back for his next project. read more

You do not need to look further for making a demo reel. Book with Jon and his team. They mean business, and they want your reel to look, and feel, natural and amazing. You will be challenged in all the best ways as an actor. I was impressed by all the attention, direction, and guidance I was given, as well as time and patience. Also the quick turnaround after filming! I can now get my things together to apply for the agencies I want. I cannot thank you enough! read more

I highly recommend working with Jonathan! Incredibly professional, personable, and knowledgeable. I met with him for self-taping and coaching and he was amazing! He's easy to work with and even gave me tips to help with those nerves during auditions and in front of the camera. Not only that, but the quality of his self-tapes are the best and his turn around was so quick. He will definitely be my go-to for all coaching and self-tapes in the future. So glad I found Hot Shots Self Taping studios!! read more

I had a great session with Jon. He was a superb reader and helped me ease into my last-minute audition. The finished product was exactly what I was hoping for. He sent the files quickly as well! I highly recommend paying him a visit for your next audition! read more

I was listening to a podcast that interview Jonathan Stanley and his philosophy. I was inspired and intrigued. Curious, i contacted him and he got back to me right away. We set up am hour for a coaching and and self tape session. The day of, i got there and was the second person of that day (Wednesday at 10:30 am). Unlike other teachers, he wasted no time getting me to open up about what is important to me and what makes me me. He is a straight shooter and genuine and i learned right away how much my filter/people-pleasing does not serve me in my acting. Being able to express myself fully without limitations and need for approval is essential to my growth as an actress. Getting out of my comfort zone and exploring how to be more real and honest will not only make me a more interesting and dynamic actress, it will also increase opportunities for connection with others. My session with him not only grounded me to be able to tap into the character for my self tape from a place of authenticity, it also gave me a safe space to be myself without judgment. My homework was to face my fears and make eye contact with others until they look away. Essentially being more confident in who i am without the need to seek validation from others, but simply because I desire to. To trust my instincts when they serve my growth and the scene. I cant wait for another session. As for the self tape video, it was exceptional quality and only helped to make me look as professional as was possible. This was a great investment in my dream. Why not control the variables that can be controlled? By memorizing my script, by having a high-quality self tape, and by turning it in as soon as possible, I have an even greater chance of standing out amongst other actors. It is a dream come true. read more

This place is the best!! The quality of the tape is superb and Mr. Jonathan Stanley is extremely knowledgable and caring. Inside is clean and smells wonderful too! Parking is easy to find and will definitely be coming back here. read more

First time taping with HotshotTaping and incredible experience . Johnathan goes the extra mile to insure you are delivering your best work . He made himself available on a holiday weekend and was very professional. The finished product was incredible . We will be coming back for sure!! Thank you so much !! read more

Hot Shots Self Taping - Specialty Schools Near Me - Studio City, California

I had a last minute audition and Jonathan was able to squeeze me in for a quick remote! I will be back! Very professional & relaxed atmosphere! The video I received for my submission was GREAT quality! read more

Yesterday was the first time I used a self-tape service, and I got to say, I think I'm converted! Jon at Hot Shots is professional, friendly and fun to work with. We had an opportunity to chat a little bit before my session and not only was it fun to chat with Jon, it really put me at ease before getting into the reading. Once at work, Jon asked if I wanted any notes, which firstly, I appreciated that he asked as I know there are times when critique might not be as emotionally accessible, I said yes, we went through the lines a few times, talked about the text a little bit and took a couple of takes, Jon offered great notes and insights after every take, and it was fun to play a little bit with my short scene. Jon got me my tape in less than 6 hours, it looks great and I feel confident sending it off to my agent and casting. I really recommend Hot Shots, and I'm looking forward to the next time I get to shoot with Jon. read more

I can't recommend Jonathan highly enough. He helped me though a tricky scene and had the utmost patience through the whole experience. He truly cares about the work and doing what it takes to get you to an honest and authentic place. I will definitely be using him for future tapes and will recommend him to all my actor friends. He's the real deal. Thank you again, Jonathan! read more

I found Jonathan on yelp after another place wasn't available. After reading the reviews I called... Lucky for me he was able to get me in the same day, the coaching he offers was very helpful in getting just the right nuances to make the scenes even better. The lighting and sound where amazing and Jonathan's energy and knowledge of our craft was spot on. I recommend this place hands down. Thanks Jonathan! read more

My new go-to for self tapes! Everything went extremely smoothly. Jonathan was very professional and easy to work with! I got the footage back in no time...AND the quality/lighting exceeded my expectations! Thank you Jonathan, you're the BEST! read more

Good people, great product. What more could you ask for? Jonathan, Yasmeen and Norbert are consummate professionals, and I consistently get compliments are how beautiful my tapes (and audio!!) are. read more

My cousin was in town and she needed some new head shots for her portfolio, so I sent her to hot shots. Immediately after her session she called me and told me that these were the "best head shots that she ever had"! Since then she told me that she has been booking "twice" as many gigs as she did before she updated her portfolio with the new head shots. Obviously this place is a hidden gem for both the quality of the pictures, as well as the professionalism of the owner. read more

Jon and Yasmeen are awesome. I booked for an actor's reel and they were so accommodating. Jon really takes into consideration your type and doesn't just reuse one script over and over again. He wrote a scene that was very fitting for me. He also has you act alongside a great actor. And as he is an actor, the direction he gives is very useful and I could not have performed as well without him. I'd recommend this studio several times over. I am so happy with my reel! read more

I take my daughter here for coaching and self tapes. Jonathan and Yas are truly beyond professional, honest and very knowledgeable on what they are doing. My daughter loves taping with them because as she says, "they make you feel so safe, comfortable and really help me bring the character to life." If you're looking for top of the line self tapes, coaching that gets you that callback and or job booked then Hot Shots is the place to go. Oh and if you're a dog lover Sir Norbert is their unofficial mascot who is better behaved than most humans I know. LOL Yas and Jonathan are truly in a class of their own. Not all self tapes are created equal. Hot Shots truly gives you The Shot you need and want. read more

Jonathan and Yasmeen are talented, truly nice people, who made me comfortable immediately. Hot Shots is professional, quick and fun! They helped me make an amazing self tape and I recommend their services to everyone, needing to submit self tapes! read more

I brought my 8 year old son here for a self tape audition, & boy am I glad that I did! Jonathan was awesome, he read over the scene with us to really understand what was going on and helped my son to project exactly that! Must be the actor in him, he was awesome! My son had a great time and his self tape was wonderful, we will definitely use him again if time permits! Thanks Jonathan! read more

Jon is great to work with, from the first time I crossed through the door he was very professional and welcoming. He pushes you in a good way to get your best work to be seen on camera. He is very passionate about acting and it shows by how much effort he puts into his clients. I don't see myself going to another self tape facility in LA, Jon has raised the bar for the self tape standard! I've learned so much from Jon in a short period of time and I look forward to working with him again. read more

I absolutely recommend this studio to shoot your tape. Jon provides excellent coaching and the lighting, videography and sound are on point. They edit your video and are quick to send it back to you. I booked an indie feature film using my casting tape and I have to say, the coaching and packaging contributed to me getting this role! It is worth it to pay to have a quality video to share with casting agents! read more

This company is great! The quality is on point and the guy to tapes with you is an actor so he gives a great read. They also edited one of my first reels and it got me more auditions!!! I'd definitely recommend using the services provided at Hot Shots read more

convenient and clean space. Great pricing and friendly staff.

Whenever I have a self tape or I need coaching there is no other place that I could imagine myself doing it than at Hot Shots Self Taping Jon and Yasmeen are the best super professionals great acting coaches and they really push you to do your best I really appreciate all the help from you guys. Cheers read more

Jonathan is great. He's super professional and it helps that he himself is an artist and can provide good feedback on how to get your best take. His prices are affordable and turn around time is great. My agent was very happy with the end result. read more