Behind the Scenes: Alexander Shaida

Alexander Shaida

Editor-in-chief

Alexander Shaida is the editor-in-chief of ACMODASI. He chooses the topics for the Behind the Scenes section and reads and edits every piece before it goes live: film and TV news, looks at the profession and practical guides for people who want to work on screen.

Alexander was born in 1983. He graduated from Kyiv Polytechnic Institute but did not go on to work in engineering; instead he worked in producing, directing, advertising and other cultural projects. Having been on the other side of the casting process — where productions are shot, performers are chosen and decisions are made — helps him see what actors and models really need to know.

If you spot a mistake or would like to suggest a topic, please write to the editorial team; the address is on the About us page.

ACMODASI profile: Alexander Shaida

About us and our editorial policy

Articles by this author

Essential tips for parents preparing their children for a casting call

Essential information on documentation, filming restrictions, spotting scams, and how to support your child on set without damaging their passion for the craft.

Basic camera exercises you can practice at home

Learn the key differences between stage and screen acting and discover practical exercises to help you get comfortable in front of the lens.

The difference between acting in a studio and on location

An overview of how lighting, sound, pacing, and physical conditions differ between studio sets and on-location shoots, and how to prepare for each.

Imposter Syndrome in Creative Professions

Why this feeling is more common in acting and modeling than in other fields, how to distinguish it from a realistic self-assessment, and practical ways to manage it.

How to interact with other candidates during group auditions

Why casting directors bring everyone into one room, what they are looking for in this format, and how to stand out without overstepping.

How Streaming Platforms Have Changed the Acting Profession

Discover how the rise of online platforms has reshaped production, audition processes, and contract terms, and what this means for a modern performer's career.

How Beginners Should Calculate Their Rates

Learn what goes into a daily rate, how to research the market, when working for free is justified, and how to negotiate your fee.

Why actors need improvisation and how to practice it

Discover how improvisation enhances your performance during auditions and on set, the core principles of the craft, and practical exercises to overcome the fear of the blank slate.

How to prepare for your online video auditions

A guide to lighting, sound, framing, and connectivity for video auditions, how they differ from self-tapes and in-person calls, and how to handle technical glitches mid-scene.

How to read a call sheet and what it actually means

A detailed guide to decoding your call sheet, understanding the difference between call time and shoot time, and planning your day on set.

How many and what kind of photos you need for your profile

A guide to the essential photo set, the correct image order, and how to avoid common mistakes that can hurt your casting chances.

What to ask a casting director before your audition

Twelve essential questions to eliminate uncertainty before you step into the room, plus what to avoid asking and how to maintain a professional tone.

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