Tips on how to become a background actor, also known as an "EXTRA"

Hello lovelies,

I thought I would dive into some familiar territory and make a post about the 411 of being an extra in the film industry. I have not been in anything since Halloween of 2014, which saddens me. I really miss being on set with friends, but our film industry is so small now, which is a shame. Anyway, here are some tips on how to become an "EXTRA" and what to do when you get a part.

First off, follow casting pages on Facebook. If you do not have Facebook, ask a friend who does to send you casting announcements. It is the 21st century, and many casting companies post their notices on their Facebook page. Then, once you see a casting posting that you fit, read the requirements and send in all the information that is requested. This means that you will also need to send in a head and body shot, but they do not have to be professional. In fact, sometimes casting companies prefer cell phone pictures and not pictures of you all dolled up. Once you send that e-mail, prepare for the waiting game. You might get e-mailed back asking you to confirm that you are available for said date and time. Usually they have a Google form in the e-mail that you will need to click to confirm. Once that is all done, you wait some more. It will usually be a day or two before the actual filming date that you will get wardrobe, location, and time information. Do not e-mail the casting director asking about those things before he/she e-mails you. They do not like that at all.  Also, when submitting pictures, try to be as "natural" as possible. Don't submit yourself with a different hair color or with pounds of makeup on.

Ok, you've confirmed that you will be there and you have all your information. Now what?

1. Pack a bag. In this bag you should have: phone charger, snacks, drinks, a book, homework, iPod, hairbrush, makeup, & a change of clothes. You will be on set anywhere from 1-14 hours. Yes, there is a snack table specifically for extras, but they usually don't have a lot. The drink selection is mainly water/coffee, so if you need a soda every once in a while to keep your blood sugar up, bring your own.

2. Bring a folding chair. This one is important because you might be at an indoor or outdoor location with limited or no seating. Bring one of those chairs that people bring to sporting events.

3. Bring your driver's license, Social Security card, or another form of ID. Two forms of ID are required to sign in. They need this information so you can get paid. You wouldn't want to work for free right? Plus. if you don't bring those with you, you will be sent home. I've seen people that drove 2+ hours to set only to have to go right back home because they didn't bring the required documents.

4. Come to set in what clothes were requested in the confirmation e-mail. Bring 2-3 other options in case they do not like what you are wearing. Also, come to set with your hair and makeup already done.

5. DO NOT under any circumstances approach or talk to the actors. They are there to do their job, same as you. You can get fired and blacklisted for doing that. It's rude and unprofessional. But, if they come up to you and talk to you first, then it's ok to talk back.

6. DO NOT ask for pictures of autographs. See above.

7. Be professional. This is a job that you are getting paid for. Do not be disrespectful to anyone, including your fellow extras. Listen to the PA's (Production Assistants) and other crew members on set.

8. Be prepared to wait.....and then wait some more. Remember that book I told you to bring? It might come in handy. Extras can be on set anywhere from 1-14 hours. That's a long time! But during those long hours you won't always be filming. Actors sometimes film their scenes separate from background until the time comes for them to need to film together. I remember one time a group of men playing soldiers were on set for 12 hours and they never even got used! Basically they sat around and slept all day. Schedules and needs constantly change in the film industry, so sometimes you might be there all day but your scene might get cut. Don't sweat it, you still get paid!

9. Finally, have fun! You get to meet all kinds of people, so make friends. I saw the same people in different shows all the time. Plus, you get a behind the scenes look at just how much goes into making a film/tv show. That is so cool! I know I enjoyed every minute of my time on set.

That's all I have for now. If you have any other questions on this subject, let me know and I will answer what I can. :)