How to Find Extras for Your Independent Film

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If you are shooting a film that requires the presence of background people, you may need to put out a call for extras. Extras are a very important aspect of films in many cases, as they add a sense of believability and depth to the world you are creating on screen. Depending on the number of people required, from one or two to a hundred, here are a few tips on how to find background extras.

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Instructions

Difficulty: Moderate

Step1

If you only require a couple of on screen extras for a scene, you can generally grab people already working around your set. Make sure you only use crew members that are not involved in the shooting of that scene.

Step2

Ask friends and family. If you need around 10 people or so, ask your friends and family to help. Family is especially helpful if you require people of varying ages.

Step3

If you are shooting a scene that requires more than 20 people, such as a street scene or other public place, you are going to require a bit more coordination. You will likely need to place ads for extras. A good site to place ads for extras is Craigslist. Keep in mind you will need to at least provide food for large groups of people, even if you are paying them a day rate. Be very clear about your expectations and what you are providing for people in exchange for their work.

Step4

If you have permission to shoot in a public space, such as a restaurant or mall, you can generally get away with using the patrons of the location as extras, provided there are shooting permits and general release forms posted. General release forms must be posted at all entrances of the establishment. They state that there is filming going on in the space, the name of the production and the production company. It must clearly state that anyone who enters the establishment consents to their likeness being used in the production and that they will not be compensated.

Step5

The days you are shooting scenes with extras tend to be hectic, as there are more people around than other days and extras need to be managed. It is very helpful to have a PA to help wrangle and manage large groups of extras. Make sure you have an area for your extras to wait quietly until they are needed and be clear about the time frame involved.