As many acting coaches will tell you, observing those around you is one of the most important steps you can take to help aid you when developing a character. However, there is a problem that many actors encounter. How do you integrate your observations with your imagination to create a one-of-a-kind character?
Far too many actors rely on their observations to create a character, but when they do this they aren’t using the most vital tool an actor has – his imagination.
Learning how to integrate your observations with your imagination will allow you to pull upon realistic human emotions and movements with those that you create organically.
Outline Your Imaginative Character
The first step in integrating your observations with your imagination is to outline your imaginative character. Use this time to delve as deep as you can into what you believe your character is like, how he walks, how he talks, how he moves, how he gestures and how he thinks. Be as creative as possible. Don’t hold back.
Outline Your Relative Observations
After you have outlined your imaginative character, you must then begin to outline your relative observations. Select observations from your observation notebook, or from memory, that you feel are relevant to your character.
Pick Key Observations for Your Character
When reviewing your relevant observations, select several observations that you feel will perfectly fit the character you’re going to portray. These could be how he walks, gestures or his mannerisms. Make sure that you only choose the best observations for this particular character based on the script and character biography you created.
Pick Key Imaginative Points
In the same manner as your observations, select several characteristics from your imagination sheet that are relative to the character. Make sure to only compile mannerisms, gestures and movements that fit the character based on the script and on the character profile you created.
Integrating These Items
After selecting the best observations and imagination characteristics for your character, you should then outline the basis of your character using these items. After doing so, review the character profile to ensure that these choices are best. Take time practicing with these characteristics and if you feel one is off, forego it and select a new characteristic from either list.