Professional Reel Footage.
Real On-Set Experience.
The Simon Studio Film Lab is an on-camera acting lab that gives actors the opportunity to gain real on-set experience while building professional reel footage.
Working on scripted scenes with fellow actors under the direction of filmmaker Daniel Simon, participants develop confidence in front of the camera, learn the rhythm and etiquette of a professional film set, and leave with professionally shot footage they can use to strengthen their reels.
OUR VISION
The Simon Studio Film Lab is a groundbreaking workshop in NYC, led by filmmaker Daniel Hendricks Simon. We offer actors an immersive experience, covering both acting techniques and filmmaking skills for a complete learning journey, all while securing professional footage.
Footage You Can Use Right Away -
Every scene is shot with professional gear in a full production setup. You’ll leave with raw or edited material that’s reel-ready, helping you get seen by casting directors, agents, and producers.
Footage That Repositions You -
Bring in scenes from shows or movies you love, a theatre scene, or something you wrote yourself - or choose from our database of over 100 sides. You can finally work on the kind of material you never get called in for, and once you’ve got the footage, casting directors can start seeing you in that light.
Rare Format, Rare Access -
Most classes stop at running scenes and giving notes. Here, you get the full cycle: perform → receive direction → watch yourself on the big screen → adjust and improve. That loop is a professional-level process typically reserved for actors already on set.
If you want to work in film and TV, this is the closest you can get to a real production environment without being on an actual job - and the skills, footage, and confidence you walk away with will directly impact your casting opportunities.
Simply put: This is a rare, high-value workshop where you leave not only a better actor, but with tangible material that advances your career.
Why This Workshop Is a Game-Changer for Actors -
Opportunities like The Simon Studio Film Lab simply do not exist anywhere else in New York City.This isn’t just another on-camera acting class - it’s a complete, hands-on filmmaking experience designed to give you exactly what working actors need: high-quality footage for your reel and the skills to deliver consistently on camera.
Here’s why it’s vital:
On-Camera Training With Immediate Feedback:
You’ll perform your scene, receive clear, actionable direction from Daniel, and immediately see how your work translates on a cinema screen. That instant visual feedback is an invaluable tool for refining your craft.
Experience Both Sides of the Lens -
Understanding how to work with the camera is as important as knowing your lines. Here, you’ll act, operate professional camera and sound equipment, give and receive direction, and watch rushes together.
Collaborative Scene Work -
You can decide to collaborate with a friend and do a scene together. We offer over-the-shoulder and point-of-view shots, with both actors mic’d, which can then be edited together into a single, polished piece - exactly like a professional production.
Our Packages
The Lab runs Mondays from 2-6PM and Tuesdays from 6-10PM.
No matter which package you purchase, you can choose any Monday or Tuesday that works for your schedule.
All packages expire 3 months from the date of purchase.
1
The Drop-In
$165
1 session
Perfect if you already have some reel footage but need one targeted scene - whether it’s a sharp lawyer moment to get that Law & Order audition, a light comedy bit to be seen for your favorite sitcom, or just a strong clip to add to your portfolio.
Great for actors of all backgrounds who want a focused boost.
2
The Update
$435 (save $60!)
3 sessions
Ideal if you have some existing footage but want to refresh or expand your reel or Actors Access with a few more polished, versatile scenes.
Whether you’re returning to the business after a break or looking to diversify your reel, this package gives you the material you need.
3
The Professional
$655 (save $170!)
5 sessions
Designed for actors who want to build or refresh their on-camera reel or Actors Access from the ground up. Whether you come from theatre, have been out of work for a while, or are just starting out without a reel, we’ll help you create a dynamic, professional reel that showcases your full range and helps open doors in film and TV.
4
The Private
$545
Time Upon Request
We get it - it’s NYC, and sometimes you just need footage fast. Designed for actors who want high-quality material on a tighter timeline, this private 2-hour shoot allows you to film up to 3 scenes in one session. You bring your own reader, walk away with all takes, and after selecting your favorites, Daniel will edit sound and light to deliver polished, reel-ready footage.
Not ready to commit? You're welcome to come audit first -
Book below!
Add-Ons
Reel Editing - $395
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Have Daniel turn your footage into a polished reel, up to 2 minutes long. Includes one revision.
Discounts
Referral Bonus
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Refer a friend who books a 3- or 5-session package, and you can book an additional single session for $100 instead of $165. Just let us know who you referred when they sign up.
Finish the Reel
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Start with 3 sessions and decide you want more? Upgrade to the 5-session package and simply pay the difference.
Last-Minute Fill - Returning Students Only
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When a session opens up due to a cancellation, returning students may be offered the spot for $100 instead of $165. These spots are offered by email and are first come, first served.
Policy
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All sessions at The Simon Studio Film Lab are non-refundable.
Individual sessions
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Sessions within a package cannot be cancelled. If you need to change your date, you may reschedule your session directly through the website, as long as the new session date falls within the three-month validity period from the date of purchase.
Package cancellations
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If you decide to cancel your entire package, you may do so for a credit toward future sessions. We do not offer monetary refunds.
Rescheduling
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Rescheduling must be completed at least 3 days before your scheduled session. Rescheduling will not be available within 3 days of the session, and the session will be forfeited.
No-shows
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If you do not attend your scheduled session, the session will be forfeited.
Daniel Hendricks Simon is a versatile force in independent cinema, excelling as a director, cinematographer, editor, producer, writer, and actor.
His compelling work has garnered acclaim at prestigious events like the USA Film Festival and Newport Beach Film Festival.
Daniel's debut feature, "Lonely Boys," premiered at First Time Fest and was an official selection at the Greenwich International Film Festival, and is now available on Paramount+ and Amazon Prime. His film "Another Year Together" earned significant recognition, winning Best Romantic Feature at the Manhattan Film Festival and sweeping the Hunter Mountain Film Festival for Best Feature Film, Best Director, and Best Actor.
Beyond independent film, Daniel has lent his talents to collaborations with renowned organizations including Barnes & Noble, Scholastic, and the New York City Ballet.
He is currently developing "The Last Act," an innovative feature-length narrative designed for social media. For independent film rates, please reach out via email at dansimonfilmmaker@gmail.com