How To Become an Extra in a Movie
- May 5, 2008
- 15,259 Views
Writer
ShannonH
Voice Over Artist
Peter Coleman
Music
Jiri Janis
Actor
Nathan Johnson
As a film extra, you’ll make some easy money, get a chance to see moviemaking up close, and perhaps become immortalized on screen. Here’s how to get a gig.
You Will Need
- A headshot
- A resume
- Some trade magazines and local newspapers
Step 1: Get a headshot
Get a headshot. It doesn’t have to be a professional photo; you can have a friend to take a picture of your face with a digital camera and blow it up to 8” x 10.”
Step 2: Write a resume
Write a resume & attach it to the back of your headshot. Don’t worry if you don’t have any acting credits; list physical characteristics (like height, weight, hair & eye color) and any hobbies, sports ability, or special skills you have, such as dancing, horseback riding, juggling—even standing on your head. You never know what’s going to come up.
Don’t forget to include your phone number and email address on your resume.
Step 3: Check the trades
Check the help-wanted section of trade journals under “auditions.” There are also websites that list extra opportunities. And if you live in an area where films often are shot, like L.A., New York City, Toronto, and Vancouver, there may be listings in the local papers.
Step 4: Go to a talent agency
Consider signing with an agency. Find a list online, or try centralcasting.org, which is the industry’s largest casting agency. Send a headshot and resume and then follow up with a phone call.
Make sure the fee the agency quotes you is in line with others in the business.
Step 5: Be prepared
When you get your first role, ask what you need to bring—some productions require that you bring your own clothes.
Know your rights: you’ll be eligible for pay increases if the conditions you’re working in are uncomfortable.
Step 6: Behave yourself
Behave yourself on the set. Never take photos, bother the crew, or approach the stars. Bring a book, iPod, or playing cards—you’ll be waiting around a lot! But you’ll also have fun, maybe see a celebrity, and have a good story to tell your friends.
Matt Damon and Ben Affleck were extras in the Fenway Park scenes of Field of Dreams.
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Comments (9)
You should mention what city to be in. Hollywood is ideal because that is where the film industry is in. As for agencies, you should mention Sande Alessi Casting, as well as LA Casting. I've used those services to get extras for my projects. What is very useful is deciding to use a calling service. They will book you for work as long as the days you want work stay open. As a caution for those pursuing becoming an extra, pay is not so great if you are non-union. If you are SAG, pay is good, but beware of the costs of joing SAG as it is very expensive. Also, as a SAG member you do not get as many days of work as your non-union counterparts. Becoming an extra is a great experience. Always remember to be professional on-set. Actors are people just like you, they just make a lot of money.
over 3 years ago by bgelera
It's also possible to get work as an extra outside of Hollywood. I've worked as an extra for about 25 years and done a number of feature films, all outside of L.A. In fact, it's easier that way because there is less competition. Florida is a great place to work as an extra and it's fairly easy to get an agent.
over 3 years ago by TVKat
This is great. Love it!
over 3 years ago by xjroseexxo
I want to be an actor or extra. I just want to be on the big screen like Will Smith, Johnny Depp, Christian Bale and some more of my favorite actors. These tips help alot. I'm going to look into doing these things.
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about 1 year ago by sussey1989
I heard Brad Pitt was fired from Central Casting for smoking pot on set and that Clint Eastwood was registered with them too. Unsubstantiated rumors from many, many days working for the company. Central Casting is the biggest and best organized Background Acting Company in LA.
over 3 years ago by Ruffhouse
i like this yes
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over 2 years ago by nikkipie
REALLY GOOD FOR ACTOR
over 3 years ago by KKPRODUCTIONS
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