Have you always dreamed of being in a movie? Would you be satisfied with any role including the big screen, small screen, or a part in-between? If so, check out the five following tips that could help you get cast as a movie extra.
1. Start your movie extra cast inspirations online
The fastest and easiest way to learn about movie extra opportunities is to search online. Start with a basic search of casting companies in your area and go to their website. Once you’ve found a website, sign up to learn more about opportunities in your area. After you do this, you’ll get emails about opportunities. If you’re a match for an extra role, you’ll find instructions on what to do next.
2. Take a great picture
The next thing you should do is get a great picture of yourself. You don’t have to spend a ton of money on professional portraits. Instead, have a friend help you snap a couple of candid shots. Make sure the photo you put out there of yourself is a current photo. The candid spot should feature you from the waist up in a natural position. Since anyone can dress down for a candid shot, many industry experts recommend dressing up for candid photo shoots.
3. Don’t show up late
When you land a role as a movie extra, don’t be late. You might be there hours before you start shooting scenes with you in the background. But, that doesn’t matter. If they tell you to be there at 9 am, you need to be there at 8:45 am and not a minute after.
4. Dress the part
As a movie extra, you need to dress the part…literally. If you landed a movie extra as a lawyer, you can’t show up in jeans and a t-shirt. If you do, the wardrobe department will probably send you home before you even get a chance to see the director. Instead, wear a suit and bring extras with you. If you’re second-guessing your outfit choices, it’s a good idea to bring a few options with you.
5. Dress for the weather
While we’re on the topic of outfits, it’s also important to know that the weather might not always match the director’s outfit requirements. For instance, you could be asked to wear warm, winter clothes including hats and mittens when it’s 90-degrees out, or skimpy summer clothes when it’s chilly. No matter what the dress code and weather is, you need to dress appropriately. Think about layering your clothes, so you can remove and add as necessary between takes.
There you have it five ways to help you land a role as a movie extra. Whether it’s on your bucket list, or you want to use it as a stepping stone to spring into an acting career, you’ll be able to get your feet wet when you follow these tips.