How To Be An Extra

How to become and extra, and find work as an extra

How do you become an extra in TV or film? And more importantly how do you find the jobs?!?

Many people like the idea of being an extra in the latest blockbuster movie or soap opera such as Coronation Street or EastEnders but don't know where to start so I thought I'd write a little from my experiences to help you out!

There are many great reasons to be an extra:
- no experience of acting is necessary!
- ANYBODY can be one (they're always looking for different sizes, ages, ethnicities depending on the production)
- you get paid for having fun
- you may just be working with an A list celeb!

But how do you do it?

The first thing you really need is a couple of good photos. Don't worry or waste your time with professional photo shoots that can cost you £300 when a friend/family member who can take reasonable pics will do! You will need 1 head shot and 1 full body shot - this way the Casting Director can see clearly whether you have what they're looking for. And do dress/look as you would normally - you have no idea what look they want so there's no point second guessing, just be yourself.

Now comes the difficult part - finding the castings! As is always the case in entertainment it is very much a closed shop where you need an agent to find out about jobs but can't get an agent until you're working! This has frustrated me so much in the past. HOWEVER the good news is that courtesy of the internet a new breed of 'agencies' has emerged. These websites provide many casting opportunities and ANYONE can join. They do charge a small monthly fee but don't charge you any commission when you get work. As a standard agent will take 20% these websites can be a far cheaper and better option.

My personal favourite is as I've had 2 jobs from that site in the last couple of months! Now I'm not suggesting that will happen to everyone as it is very much a luck industry - but give it a try and who knows where you might be this time next year!!

How To Be An Extra

Author: Richard

About the Author:
More About the Author >>> | My other pages >>>

Page Views: 4797 | Page Ranking: 27
Popular Tags:
tv extra, film extra, work as an extra, movie extra

Last Updated: Nov 21st 2008

Ask Richard a Question >>>

Category: Entertainment [More Categories]

Article Comments / Questions

No comments have been added to this question.
Comment on this Article