How to Be an Extra in a Movie

Intro: Movie extras can make some extra cash, spend their time on the set of a movie, and gain valuable acting experience all at the same time. Follow these steps to be an extra in a movie.

Step 1: The best way to be an extra in a movie is to get signed by a few modeling/acting agencies. Generally, extras are good looking people who are well put together and this makes models prime people to put in movies as extras.

Step 2: You will need to find as many local agencies which have an acting division and try to get signed by all of them. You will need to send in a headshot, maybe some additional photos, a resume, and a letter telling the agency more about yourself.

Step 3: To be an extra in a movie, you must get signed by an agency. It is important to include a letter when sending out photos since it will let the casting people get to know you better. Having a strong headshot and a few things on your resume will really help too.

Step 4: Many people suggest that you should follow up with a phone call to the agency to see what they thought about your resume and etc. but this doesn’t really seem important. An agency will contact you rather quickly if you are what they are looking for.

Step 5: If you do get contacted, they will set you up with an interview. The interview is just to make sure you look like your photos. Usually at the interview, you will sign the contract and speak about how everything works.

Step 6: To be an extra in a movie, hopefully your agent will start getting you jobs or setting you up with casting calls. Getting an agent is tough. Getting jobs is even tougher, although there is a way to take matters in your own hands.

Step 7: To be an extra in a movie, you can take matters in your own hands and try to find auditions and casting calls online at websites like craigslist.org which is an online classifieds. You can find job listings for “tv/film/video” and under a “talent” section.

Step 8: Once you do book an extra job, you should show up early and find the people in charge of extras. Movie directors like extras who are quiet, do their jobs, and stay out of the way.

Tips: To be an extra in a movie, you need to try and get signed by a few agencies.

Search craigslist.org everyday for extra jobs.

Don’t talk to the stars unless they talk to you first.

The most extra work is needed in California and New York.

Warnings: Movie extras don’t make that much money for the amount of hours they have to sit on the set, but the experience can be valuable.

Sitting on the movie set can be boring; you may want to bring a book to read.

Comments (2)

paul said:

	... Becoming a movie extra sounds like a great way to make some extra cash.
	report abuse vote down vote up

July 07, 2009
Votes: +0

kiralynn said:

	... I agree becoming a movie extra seems pretty awesome, wonderful article and advice on becoming a movie extra, rated five.
	report abuse vote down vote up

May 12, 2010
Votes: +0