Become a TV and Film Extra
| Earning Potential | Time to Start | Set-Up Cost | Location | Time Commitment | Skill Level |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Medium | Long | Low | On-the-Road | Moderate | Beginner |
How to Become a TV and Film Extra in the UK
Ever watched your favourite TV show or film and wondered how those people in the background landed their roles? The ones behind Brad Pitt, or across from Emma Watson are extras - also known as background performers. They add realism to scenes without saying a word.
How to become a TV and film extra, you ask?
You don't need acting experience. Just an interest in being part of something big, having bragging rights among friends, and potentially rubbing shoulders with Hollywood A-listers!
This comprehensive guide is your one-stop solution. We'll cover everything from what being a film extra actually involves to how to get started in this fascinating side hustle — even if you have zero acting experience.
Get a glimpse into
a day in the life as an extra as you learn about
reputable casting agencies,
pay rates, and how
social media can amplify your chances of landing that dream role. Let's dive into the exciting world of TV and film extras and discover how you can step into this role.
Exploring the World of TV and Film Extras
The magic of television and film often lies in the details. Think about your favourite TV show or movie; beyond the main cast, it's bustling with background performers who bring life to each scene. These unsung heroes are known as extras, vital cogs that make a production feel authentic.
Stepping into the Shoes of a Background Performer
Becoming an extra is more than just standing around on a film set. It necessitates perseverance, malleability and focus on the minutiae. This could be an ideal opportunity for full-time students or those seeking additional income streams.
You'll work closely with directors and the production team but won't have lines - unless you're promoted to speaking roles. Remember Channing Tatum? He started off as a dancer in a music video before becoming a Hollywood sensation. Did you know Megan Fox was once an extra? Before she became a household name with 'Transformers,' she started in minor roles, blending into the background of films like 'Bad Boys II. So while it may seem minor at first glance, being an extra can serve as a great stepping stone into bigger acting roles.
How to Get Extra Work with No Previous Acting Experience
Fret not if you lack previous acting experience – becoming an extra doesn’t need one. What casting agencies look for are people from diverse backgrounds who can blend seamlessly into different scenes – they don’t always need Brad Pitt.
Your journey starts by signing up with reputable casting agencies such as Mad Dog Casting or Uni-versal Extras. They act as a bridge between you and production houses, helping you land those coveted extra roles.
So how does it work? Once registered (often for free), they'll contact you when fitting opportunities arise. And don't worry about not having the 'actor' look - agencies need all sorts of people to make scenes realistic.
One of my accounting clients has achieved success as an extra in various film and TV projects across the UK. Their experience below allows us to gain insights into what a day in the life of an extra is like.
Early Mornings; The Significance of Being Punctual
Our client's day often begins as early as 5 a.m. Being punctual is important. Being late not only disrupts the filming schedule, it also jeopardises your reputation within the industry. It's a close-knit community so having a good reputation matters.
First Steps; Wardrobe and Makeup
Upon arrival at the set one of the things our client does is visit wardrobe and makeup. Even though they are an extra, they may need to wear costumes and have their makeup done to match the overall aesthetic of the scene.
Waiting is Part of the Job
A large part of their day involves waiting. Sets are bustling with activity. It can often take hours to set up for a single shot. Patience is key; they bring along books to read and engage in conversations with fellow extras or simply enjoy some downtime.
Time to Shine; On Set Action
When its their turn for their scene, they are guided by the Assistant Director to their designated spot.
You might simply be requested to walk in the background, take a seat at a café table or blend into a crowd. Every single action, no matter how minor, adds to the authenticity and depth of the scene.
Challenges Faced by Extras
Being an extra comes with its set of challenges. The long hours can be exhausting. There’s often a lot of waiting. Additionally, you'll need to follow instructions, without much understanding of the larger scene or storyline. Unless you're regularly getting booked for jobs, your income can be sporadic.
It's a Wrap!
Once your scenes are finished, and the director is pleased with them, you'll sign out and return your costume and call it a day. It's definitely a busy day but an incredibly fulfilling one. While the work can be challenging and the hours long, the rewards—like potentially sharing screen space with A-list actors and being part of cinematic history—are often worth it.
The Role of Casting Agencies in Finding Extra Work
Casting agencies are your ticket to landing extra work in the film industry. They're like a bridge, connecting aspiring extras with producers and directors who need background performers for their productions.
Navigating Extras Agencies for Suitable Jobs
Choose an agency that meets your requirements carefully, as not all casting agencies are the same.
The likes of Casting Collective and Uni-versal Extras have carved out a niche for themselves as reliable conduits between you and those desirable TV or film roles.
However, be cautious about which agency you align yourself with - some may charge unnecessary fees just to get on their books. Instead, focus on finding an agency that provides suitable jobs without making unreasonable financial demands.
Specialised Casting Agencies for Diverse Roles
If you possess unique features or belong to a specific ethnicity group, there's good news: specialised casting agencies exist just for you. These platforms understand that diverse individuals bring something different – something special –to the table; they help such talent find roles tailored specifically towards them.
This inclusivity is vital because having varied representation amongst background performers helps films reflect real-world diversity more accurately.
Here are a few UK-based agencies that specialise in specific types of roles. These agencies often ask for a nominal admin fee but provide ample opportunities throughout the year:
Ray Knight Casting
Ray Knight Casting is one of the largest agencies focusing solely on extras and walk-on artists in the UK.
Mad Dog 2020 Casting
Mad Dog 2020 Casting is known for providing extras in high-action scenes and military roles, this agency often seeks individuals with unique skill sets.
Mad Dog charges and annual fee for its membership.
Uni-versal Extras
Uni-versal Extras located at Pinewood Studios offer a range of opportunities including specialised roles that may require specific ethnic backgrounds or physical abilities.
Uni-Versal Extras asks for a £30 registration and commission of 15% for its membership.
Casting Collective
The Casting Collective offers a wide range of opportunities including specialised roles, from historical reenactments to futuristic sci-fi settings.
The Casting Collective charges only a one-off registration fee which covers two years of membership.
Due Diligence
Before signing up with any agency, it's crucial to do your own due diligence. Make sure to read reviews and perhaps even try to talk to people who have worked with the agency.
By choosing an agency that specialises in the types of roles you are interested in, you increase your chances of landing roles that not only interest you but also utilise your unique skills or attributes.
So whether it’s an ad looking specifically for horse riders or fans clamouring at a concert scene - everyone has space in this exciting world.
Wrapping it up, breaking into the TV and film industry as an extra could be your next big move.
Making Money as a Film Extra
Gaining employment in the motion picture industry isn't all about glamorous galas and mingling with famous faces. In fact, many actors started their careers earning money working as background performers. Let's take Brad Pitt for instance; before he became Hollywood royalty, he was an extra.
Understanding Pay Rates and Additional Benefits
Film extras' pay rates can vary greatly depending on various factors such as the production companies involved, whether you're part of the main cast or simply providing background work, and even if it's day or night shooting.
On average though, standard pay starts at around £84 per day, according to BBC Equity agreements.
If you find yourself working multiple episodes or landing individual roles that require special skills like horse riding for example (hello Game of Thrones.), your earnings could increase significantly.
Beyond monetary benefits though, there are other perks worth considering too. Some productions give free meals during meal breaks - we hear craft services on sets are legendary. Plus getting hired based on something unique about you – maybe it’s your Brad Pitt lookalike features – offers bragging rights that no amount of money can buy.
Taxation
Since you will be operating a business and earning money, you may need to register for VAT and pay income tax and other applicable taxes.
National Insurance contributions are also worth noting. As an extra you're considered self-employed so be sure to set aside some earnings to cover these costs.
key takeaway
Diving into the entertainment industry isn't just about flash and dazzle. Becoming a movie extra can be fulfilling, offering around £84 daily with chances for more if you have unique skills or snag recurring roles. Plus, free food on set and a shot at being spotted. To amp up your chances, think about signing up with casting agencies.
Whether you're dreaming of rubbing shoulders with Leonardo Dicaprio or looking to earn some extra £'s, social media platforms can be a fantastic tool for finding opportunities as TV and film extras. The online world has changed the way we seek employment, even in the acting industry.
Boosting Your Online Presence for Extra Opportunities
A strong presence on social media like YouTube, TikTok, X (formally called Twitter) or Instagram not only increases your visibility but also helps connect directly with casting agencies. This digital age demands an active online profile showcasing your unique personality traits, special skills such as horse riding or singing and even any previous acting experience if applicable.
In this regard, think of your social media account as a dynamic CV that brings out who you are both off-screen and on-screen. Let's explore how to leverage these platforms effectively:
- Post Regularly: Keep followers updated about your journey – whether it’s a picture from set (only if allowed), tales from behind-the-scenes or simply sharing about upcoming auditions.
- Create Engaging Content: Try creating short videos displaying various emotions or enacting popular scenes - remember Margot Robbie's scene-stealing performance in "Wolf of Wall Street" or Bryan Cranston's intense moments in "Breaking Bad.? Go ahead, recreate something iconic.
- Leverage Hashtags: Use relevant hashtags related to 'extra work', 'film extras' and more; they increase post reach considerably by connecting with larger communities interested in similar topics.
Besides this organic growth approach which might feel like watching paint dry at times due to its slow pace, paid promotions offer faster results by increasing visibility among targeted audiences instantly. But remember: having thousands of followers won’t necessarily guarantee jobs unless backed up by talent and persistence.
You could consider following established casting agencies like Mad Dog Casting and The Casting Collective, who often post about extra work opportunities on their platforms. This way, you’ll be one of the first to know when there’s a new opportunity up for grabs.
But, remember this - social media might help you get started, but nothing tops real acting experience. So seize every opportunity as a stepping stone towards bigger roles.
FAQs
Final thoughts
Becoming a TV and film extra is more than just being in the background.
It's about adding depth to scenes, it's about contributing to an artistic masterpiece.
It starts with understanding your role as a background performer. That silent contribution that makes the scene believable.
You've learned how you can break into this industry even without prior acting experience. How casting agencies could be your launchpad and social media platforms, your beacon of opportunities.
The journey on 'how to become a TV and film extra' may not make you a household name overnight, but remember—many successful actors got their start in small roles or even as extras. Your big break could be just around the corner!
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The Social Media Route to Extra Work