If you’re starting out in extras work, you may wonder what particular talents are required.
First, there is no need for any training. If you are needed to do anything that requires a particular skill, then it may be that you are contracted in a different way, and you are not simply classed as an extra.
On most occasions, people will not expect you to have distinguishing looks; you are a background artiste, which means that you are needed in the background of the shot, like wallpaper or scenery, so features that mark you out will be to your disadvantage. In period pieces, some particular facial features may appear anachronistic, although make-up can usually help looks blend with the period.
This means that your greatest value to the scene is your anonymity and the more you melt into the background, in both your looks and your movements, then the more you are likely to be wanted. In addition, film and TV companies want their extras to be responsive, cooperative, and polite to the others on set. Willingness counts for much; you will be remembered if you are someone who can help out in an unforeseen difficulty.
Reliability and punctuality are other key characteristics of the ‘talented’ extra – and patience, of course. Hanging around waiting is a large part of the job!
At Audition Now we can line you up for plenty of extras work, texting you opportunities direct to your mobile phone. Do you want to be an extra?
Tags: be an extra, extras auditions, Extras Work, film and TV extras