Appear on the set on time, or other extras will take their place. Provide their own wardrobe for certain films and have them approved. Be aware of who they must report to and when other actors eat their meals. Work for at least eight hours , but as many as 12-16 hours on any given day of a shoot.

Can you live off being an extra?

There are many ways to make a living as an actor. For some, it means starring roles and a foot-long IMDb page. But that certainly isn't the only way. Background acting—or “extra” work for movies and TV—can absolutely be a full-time profession if you know how to go about it.

Do movie extras work weekends?

In many cases, though, Extras don't have to worry about overnight or weekend work. That's because productions will have to pay higher rates for overnight, weekends and productions that go longer than eight hours in a day. It can happen, but according to Maler, it's rare.

Is being an extra worth it?

It can be a long, slow day with little activity and not much artistic reward. Despite the cons, I think it's a good idea for actors to work as an extra at least once, if for no other reason than to have the experience of being on set.

Do movie extras ever become actors?

Some of the biggest names in Hollywood started as extras before becoming famous. So, if you've wondered if you'll ever move from the background into the limelight, let these actors who started out as extras be your inspiration.

What to Expect as an Extra/Background Actor!

What movie hired the most extras?

Richard Attenborough's film Gandhi holds the record for the most film extras, with approximately 300,000 people.

Can extras talk to actors?

It is strictly not permitted to talk to the actors, ask for autographs, take photographs, or use recording equipment of any kind. This can result in you being dismissed immediately without pay. It is not permitted to bring a friend or family member with you, this also applies to costume fittings.

Do extras get hair and makeup?

Wardrobe, hair, and makeup

Sometimes, the production will request that you arrive “camera ready,” meaning you should arrive dressed in wardrobe with your hair and makeup already done; other times, you'll get ready on set.

How hard is it to get a job as an extra?

Becoming an extra (sometimes referred to as a Background Artist) is fairly simple if you live in any city but it is much easier if you live in Los Angeles or New York. All you do is contact an extras casting service or director, and sign up with their service.

What not to do as an extra?

Follow direction and don't improvise-throwing yourself towards the camera or making gestures to stick out in a scene is just a good way to get kicked off a set. It won't help you become famous. A good actor does what is required in a given scene- and as an extra, your job is to blend in.

Do extras get royalties?

Hence on many advertisements, which are often shown multiple times and distributed internationally, while the extra is paid a contracted day-rate, the largest payment is from ongoing royalties.

How much do extras get paid per day?

It definitely varies depending on the budget and what kind of extra is needed, but it's usually $100 to $120 per day. Usually a guaranteed five hour window for some productions. $20 per hour.

Do extras ever get speaking roles?

Extra work doesn't necessarily get an actor noticed by casting directors or agents, but it can be a valuable way of gaining experience on set. It can sometimes result in being upgraded to a speaking role, or helping an actor get his union card.

How to be an extra in a movie with no experience?

Do extras get credited in movies?

Marci Dean has been in dozens of movies, including films with Meryl Streep, Eddie Murphy, Reese Witherspoon and Jude Law. But you probably don't know her name. She is one of thousands of part-time actors who make money as movie extras. Extras don't get film credits or lines.

Is it fun to be an extra?

Extras are not the focus and often you will be little more than more just a blur in a big crowd, but sometimes you can get lucky and see yourself clearly. Even if you don't see yourself in the final cut, it's always fun to know you were a part of something like that and it's a great story to tell…

Can you make a living as a movie extra?

Extras don't get film credits or lines. But they can get union wages, meals and plenty of perks — like getting to read novels on the job. Dean says being a movie extra is a great part-time job for retirees, college students, and anyone else who has a highly flexible schedule.

Can I refuse to do extra work?

Before saying no, evaluate whether taking on the additional responsibilities will compromise your ability to deliver top-notch work on your primary job responsibilities consistently. If the task doesn't bring significant learning opportunities or skill development, it's best to politely decline.

Do extras wear their own clothes?

For most films, extras are asked to wear their own clothes. For a film set in another time period, they may have to report to the wardrobe department for a costume fitting. In some cases, a casting director for a film will be looking for specific types and talents.

What to wear to set as an extra?

When instructed to bring your clothes instead of arriving camera ready, be sure they make it to set in good condition. Even when wardrobe is provided, there will likely be base items you need to bring, like specific color socks or a certain kind of shoe, and you should always wear clean and sufficient undergarments.

What not to say to an actor?

Do you have to audition to be an extra?

There's no real audition to be an extra. You won't usually need to read sides or a script, perform special skills, or feel out your chemistry with other actors.

How long are extras on set?

Usually, extra work is an all day event. The film industry works long hours, and in general, background actors work the same long hours. Often, the start time is early in the morning, and filming goes late in the evening. The work days are typically 12 hours or longer.