Many actors get their start in show business as movie extras.
In the late 19th century, films were shot documentary-style and depicted people performing routine tasks. Though not labeled as such, these people were essentially the very first movie extras. As the film industry grew, so too did the need for background performers. Thousands ventured to Los Angeles as early as the 1920s to pursue their show business dreams. This tradition continues presently. Many aspiring actors work as extras to gain experience in the film industry. Productions utilize several locations for filming, eliminating the need to live in Los Angeles or New York to become an extra. However, the majority of work does exist in the major cities. Whether young or old, big or small, movies need all types of background performers.
Instructions
1. Register with a local extras casting service. Most agencies will charge a fee to include you on their roster, so be prepared to pay for this service.
2. Fill out the appropriate tax forms as instructed by your casting service. You will need to complete an I-9 form and a W-4 form to be eligible for work. These forms are typically provided by the casting service.
3. Have a photograph taken of yourself. Legitimate casting services will take the photograph for you as part of membership in their agency. This photograph is sent to casting directors who will review it and determine if you have the look they need for their films.
4. Submit yourself for work. Call your casting service on a regular basis to search for appropriate jobs. Your casting service might call you if you fit the description of a job they are seeking to fill. A casting director will hire you if he or she decides you have the appropriate look for a given film.
5. Follow the instructions from your casting service about the job for which you have been hired. You will be provided with a call time, which is the time you are due to report for work. You will also be given directions to the set and a list of wardrobe options you need to bring with you. Most extras provide their own wardrobe unless instructed otherwise.
6. Arrive at the set. Check in with your designated supervisor; this person is usually a production assistant or assistant director. When you check in you will fill out a work voucher that is collected at the end of the day. Your voucher dictates how much you will be paid.
7. Follow your supervisor's instructions about where to report next. The wardrobe department will likely be your next destination. Once you have checked in with the appropriate people and your wardrobe has been approved, you are ready to start work.
8. Follow the instructions given to you throughout the day. You will be informed of the location of the holding area where you will wait until you appear in a scene, when and where to eat lunch and when to sign out for the day.
Tags: casting service, background performers, film industry, Follow instructions, movie extras, show business, your casting