How to Become a Movie Extra (or TV Extra)

If you've always dreamed of being on the big screen, you're in luck. You may not even have to take an acting class -- and you can get paid to do it.

Just think of all the movies and TV shows being produced every day. They need people in the background for scenes. And, if the show is set on Mars or in the 1800s, they can't just film on a busy modern day street with every day people walking by, now can they? ;)

What is this business?
Become a Background Actor a.k.a Movie Extra and work on film, television and commercials. Sometimes called the 'atmosphere' because they provide the atmosphere to most film scenes. If you think about it, the stars of the movie would look pretty silly having a conversation in a diner if no one else was there. The background actors – extras – are there to make movie scenes look realistic.

Anyone can be a movie extra. You don't need any experience, you don't need to have taken acting classes and you don't need to be a particular age. All that's needed is the right look and the ability to take directions. And having the right look doesn't mean you have to be glamorous – there is just as much work for regular or unusual looking people.

What supplies you’ll need.

1. Photo that looks like 'you' - Not a Glamour Shot

Ideally your photo will be taken against a neutral background and the clothes you wear will complement rather than detract from your face. Never wear white. Solid, bright colors make the best impression. And remember to smile. Your photo should show your personality.

Another option for photographs is to get photos with different looks. This depends on the types of roles you want to fill i.e. waitress, athlete, student, business wear, retiree, blue collar worker etc...) The more looks you have, the easier it will be to market yourself and find work.

2. Cell Phone

A cell phone is absolutely essential. You need it so you can be contacted on the move and so you never miss that important casting call.

3. Dependable Transportation

Wherever you live, you need to be able to get to where the work is. That usually means having a car – and it's got to be reliable. You can't always rely on public transport to get you where you want to go in an emergency.

Having a car will also increase your options for background work. If you have a car of the make and model they need for a shoot, you might be hired to drive it. You'll also get additional pay for this.

4. Wardrobe

Extras need a decent wardrobe and thrift stores are a great way to build it up. Extras always have to bring their own clothes, unless they are wearing a uniform or a period costume of some kind. The casting agent always gives guidance on what kind of clothes to bring, such as dark suits, shirts and ties for businessman or T-shirts (without logos) and shorts for outdoor park scenes on a sunny day.

Where to market this business.
Anyone can become a movie extra and you don't have to live in LA. Finding a job as a movie extra can be as easy as registering in person or mailing your photo to extra casting agencies in your city. In fact more small towns are being used for feature films and television programs for their small community feel and location shots. One Tree Hill was filmed in North Carolina, Prison Break in Texas and Lost in Hawaii. Living outside New York or LA is no barrier to a successful career as an extra.

Personality traits that would like this business.

Those who do well as movie extras are those who have appealing personalities and the stamina to spend long hours on set. They also need to be punctual, cooperative, and willing and able to take directions.

Pluses and Minuses of this business.

+ Being an extra is a great way of finding out about the movie business, whether you're a movie buff or a budding actor. And many actors use this as a first step on the road to a speaking part in a movie.

- If you're someone who gets bored sitting around, then this may not be the career for you. There's a lot of hanging around as an extra so bring a book, newspaper or spend quality time networking with fellow background actors.