Whether you’re an actor, a producer, a director, a stylist, or an editor, in this industry you will face two realities: The first is large personalities, and the second is large digital files. While there may not be a lot you can do about the personalities, there are many easy and inexpensive methods to send big files across the internet.
Some of the large files that anyone in the entertainment industry might have to send are:
- High-resolution headshots
- Demo reels
- Finished screenplays in PDF form
- A completed film project
You need to share these big files at the drop of a hat on any given day, and you won’t always be able to tack them on an email, since email services often have size limits on how much you can send and receive. Don’t take the risk of your materials not reaching the right contacts—it may cost you a job!
Four Ways to Send Large Files Online
Dropbox
If you've ever heard “the cloud,” well, Dropbox is the cloud. It’s a digital space where you can securely pick up and drop large files so others can access them. You just need to download the Dropbox application and install it on your computer desktop (there’s also an app for tablet and smartphone). Sharing the file is as simple as dragging it into the Dropbox and giving the recipient a link to your box. Same goes for if you’re pulling down a file from someone else’s box.
Google Drive
An excellent, easy-to-use and completely free option is Google Drive (made even easier if you already use Gmail since you have an account set up). Unlike email attachments, the cloud storage of Google Drive allows users to upload files up to 5TB in size. You can also share the file as many times as you want and with anyone, totally free of charge.
HighTail
HighTail (which used to be called YouSendIt) is the same idea as DropBox, except you have to upload files through the website and it’s generally used for more formal, professional file sharing. For example, you may use Dropbox to share things with friends and maybe an informal work file, but HighTail is designed to handle corporate needs. You can also use it via your mobile device.
Huddle
A similar file-sharing venue to Dropbox and HighTail, Huddle has the added capacity of allowing you to share more than just the files: you can also share notes about the files and edit them, which is a great feature if you’re sharing a screenplay.
File Transfer Protocol
File Transfer Protocol (or FTP) essentially served as the precursor to the cloud—it’s like playing catch through the Internet. It’s an expensive prospect for the average filesharer though, requiring the use of an actual server. However, if the intended recipient of your files has an FTP server at their disposal, it makes your job easier. All you have to do is download an FTP client like FileZilla or Cyberduck, and log into the recipient’s FTP server using login credentials they’ll have provided you (usually location, username, and password). Once you’re in, you can drag and drop your file.
Looking for remote work? Backstage has got you covered! Click here for auditions you can do from home!