Eyeline is the direction of your gaze. In a self-tape it can establish where the scene partner is located and keep attention consistent. There is no single distance or angle that applies to every audition, so follow the brief first.
Read the instructions exactly
Some auditions specify a reader beside camera, a direct-to-camera delivery, or particular framing. Do not substitute a generic online rule for the actual requested setup.
Make the imagined relationship clear
If speaking to someone outside the frame, choose a consistent point and understand why the character is looking there. Attention should connect to the scene, not to checking the recording screen.
Avoid unnecessary eye drift
Looking repeatedly at the lens, reader, and screen can break the scene unless the material requires it. Keep the setup simple and prioritise listening and objective.
Check framing with a test
Make a brief test and confirm the framing matches requirements. You are checking whether the setup is usable, not trying to engineer a perfect image at the expense of performance.
Try it in your next rehearsal
Record a brief exchange twice using the reader placement required by your practice setup. Watch for eye focus and whether attention stays connected to the imagined partner. Then review acting choices separately.