How to Work as a Film Extra

Stars may be making the big bucks in movies, but they wouldn’t exist without film extras. Being an extra in a movie can be a highly lucrative way to make money, meet interesting people, and pave the way for that lucky break into something bigger. It offers the flexibility to work when you want and be a part of the exciting world of filmmaking. Here's how to be an extra.

Difficulty: Moderate

Instructions

Things You'll Need:

• Professional photographs

1. Contact your state’s film production office to see what movies are being shot in your area. They’ll know about the bigger productions but you can also call film departments at local colleges to see what productions they need extras for as well. You can also check the Internet Movie Data Base or the Screen Actors Guild online to find out what’s shooting where. (See Resources below.)

2. When you find out about castings for films, show up on time for the casting call with a professional photograph. If the movie is casting for a particular type, make sure you look the part. For example, if they’re looking for thugs, don’t show up in business attire. It pays to invest in a professional black and white headshot if you are going to pursue work as a film extra. No resume is needed when doing extra work. Make sure your phone number and email address are written on the back of your picture.

3. If you get called for a shoot, expect the call time to be very early in the morning. Often, film extras are given a call time of five or six a.m. Bring the address, clothing particulars, casting office phone number, and any special information you’ll need for the shoot.

4. Arrive on time and report to the person who is handling the extras. Bring a book or something to work on because there will be a lot of waiting and you may be working for 10 hours or more.

5. Be an easy person to work with. That means being professional(minding your own business), on time and being immediately available when they finally call you to the set.

Tips & Warnings

• People who are not members of the Screen Actors Guild will make anywhere from nothing to $100 a day or more. They will very likely feed you and possibly give you a copy of the film. Union actors make the current union rate and will generally fare better with meal choice and film placement.
• Don’t approach a film star you are working with unless he or she speaks to you first. Gawking is a sign of an amateur.

Resources

• Internet Movie Data Base
• Screen Actors Guild

[AudreyBrown]

on 3/7/2008 Good info, I'll use this when my husband and I move to California. Thanks! :)

[Karenc1972]

on 1/26/2008 Great article. Thanks for sharing!