Q&A for How to Become an Extra in a Movie

Sometimes you'll need to be quiet on the set. However, when talking is permitted, you can network and chat with other extras and actors. You may find new work or at least make new agency contacts.

Watch the actors on set, do not sit when you aren't required to, do not sit back with the extras shooting the breeze. Be out there on set watching the actors, watching the camera operators, watching the ADs, watching wardrobe. watching what most of the professionals are doing, soak it in and learn.

There are usually casting calls for extras of all ages, including babies and toddlers.

Extras of all age groups are needed. Some pictures require a certain age group to fit the scene, but elderly people should have no more (or less) trouble finding work.

No. An extra does not do much; they are usually just in the background and the focus of the scene is not on them, so if you can stand, walk, sit, etc., you'll be fine.

Yes. The more you apply to, the more chances of getting a job you will have!

No, not at all. When I was called as an extra in World War Z, all they needed was someone who looked Russian.

No, extras are not a part of the regular cast and are just chosen from people who show up to the set.

It depends on the agency, but it is generally between 60 and 100 dollars for the first 8 hours and overtime pay after that.

It depends what you apply for. It is usually specified whether they want experience or not. Typically, on a resume, you should have any previous acting/extra work, a headshot, your age, weight, height and where you live.

Unless the movie is a period piece that pre-dates orthodontics, braces should not be a deterrent for work as an extra.

Non-union extras are typically paid $8 per hour. High-end extras can earn $100 in an 8-hour day.

No, they will need to see your experience. You should treat this like any other job.

Yes, as long as you can maneuver by yourself.

It shouldn't affect your chances too much. If a director likes everything but your hair, they'll most likely ask you to cut it. However, there are plenty of roles out there for men with long hair. Be aware though that your chances will be much more limited if you're unwilling to cut your hair for a role.

It's not all that difficult depending on what is being filmed. Being an extra is basically being scenery so most of the time, you're just walking or sitting or doing something simple, not to draw attention away from the actors.

It depends on the part, but you might find yourself more limited in the extra roles that you would be qualified to do.

Look for talent agencies. Look at central casting. Check newspapers. Check online to find agencies and be prepared to send your headshots.

You can take a class on voice over. And you can take acting lessons or get an acting coach to help you develop more. Create a demo reel and resume to send to the studios when you are applying. After you do these things then you are off to a great start!

Yes, they do.

Talk to the makers of the film to seek to persuade the person to let your child in. Be nice about it! No yelling or fighting or your child will be at the bottom of the extras.

You'll have to pick one, if there is a conflict of scheduling. If there is not an scheduling issue, you do both.

Sure - they look for all types of people. If there is a 1970s show being put together and they want hippies or if it's a show about badasses or bikers or tattoos, you'll fit right in!

Yes, you are able to be a extra without experience. However, some movies and TV shows may require you to have experience.

Yes. You definitely don't have to look perfect to be an extra.

How much an extra makes can vary widely depending on the production you're working on. Additionally, extras usually get paid by the day rather than by the hour. The average daily pay for an extra is right around $170 USD. But the range can span from $100-$185 a day. It can be tough to make a living as an extra because they're considered freelance workers. So in order to earn enough money to make a decent living, you'll have to organize your own schedule, and pay for your own benefits such as health insurance and taxes. But if it's just a side gig, it can be a great way to make some decent cash and hang out on a movie set all day!

It takes a little bit of work, but it's not as tough as you might think to become an extra. One of the easiest ways is to look online for casting calls in your area. Reply to the email address included in the listing. Typically, you’ll need to email a photograph of your head and shoulders and another of your full body. Additionally, you’ll need to include your contact info, age, height, weight, and measurements. You can also register with a casting agency to land regular gigs as an extra. Upload your photographs and fill out the registration form, which will ask for details including your contact information, age, height, weight, and measurements. Register with as many agencies as possible to maximize your chances of getting booked. Then, just wait to hear from them whenever there's extra work you can do!

Usually not. Because extras are often cast as background actors, casting directors are usually looking for people who "look" the part. That means if you match the look of the characters they want for a scene, then you're all set. No audition necessary. That's part of the reason why signing up a casting agency is a great idea. You'll upload your photos and fill out forms that include a description of what you look like. If your details match what a casting director is looking for, the agency can contact you about the gig to see if you're interested!