By Rena Bryson

One of the best side jobs for actors is extra work, you get to learn on set, meet new creatives and sometimes even featured on a show or film. I’ve done a lot of extra work over the years and thought I’d share some tips for being an extra on set!

Hurry Up and Wait

The majority of your time as an extra will be hurrying up to wait. Often you must arrive for an early call time just to sit around waiting for hours. But it is still really important you are there on time just in case you are needed. This is just how it is on set, so be prepared with a book to read, your laptop to work or a good podcast. Complaining won’t make it go any quicker so try not to be that person on set. It spotlights you as a naïve newbie and even worse as not a team player.

Make Friends

On set is a great place to meet likeminded people, you’ll find a mix of actors and people just looking for a fun side gig. I’ve met so many amazing creatives on set from other extras to ADs. Working on the same project for a day or a few weeks does develop a particular comradery. So don’t be shy! Introduce yourself, remember peoples names, have a chat and if you got on particularly well get their socials before you go and stay in touch.

Be Prepared

Every extra gig is different, some provide full wardrobe, hair and makeup while some ask you to bring your own clothes. If you are bringing your own clothes they will have to be photographed and sent to wardrobe for approval before you get on set. So make sure you send lots of options (based on the brief) ASAP and then bring those with you. For consistency you’ll often need to bring these items with you repeatedly. Usually you’ll be asked to arrive with natural hair and make up which will then be touched up by the hair and make up team. Personally as a curvier actor I prefer bringing my own clothes as I’ve had issues with costumes being too small in the past. As TV and film actors tend to come in smaller sizes than me, although this is changing slowly but surely as the industry becomes more inclusive.

Learn on Set

The best way to study film acting is to experience it and watch the pros at work. While on set use the opportunity to observe how each shot is constructed and how many creatives work behind the scenes. From lighting to background there is so much to consider. And luckily you’ll hear the phrases RESET, STANDBY, ROLLING and ACTION several times so you’ll have lots of time to observe each creatives contribution. It’s also an excellent opportunity to learn from the lead actors process, through observation without disturbing them.

Keeping a Secret

One of the biggest rules an extra can break is leaking information or pictures from set. This will usually lead to the extra being blacklisted and not working again. Phones are generally not allowed on set and it will be in your contract that you are not allowed to take any pictures. This is for good reason as spoilers could ruin the shows future episodes. So trust me that cool insta story will not be worth it!

Background Acting

As a background extra you’ll usually be directed by the Extra’s Coordinator and as a feature you will usually be directed by the film/shows director. Listen carefully and make sure to ask them to clarify anything confusing before the take.

• Never look at or in the direction of the camera when filming.
• Keep your actions consistent for each take. Unless directed otherwise.
• Don’t over act – act naturally.
• Mime rather than actually talk, even whispers will be picked up by sound.
• Be professional and polite to each member of the cast and crew.

Don’t be a Groupie

It’s frowned upon to approach famous creatives on set and ask for autographs, selfies etc. They are there to work and it’s very difficult to stay in character when you’re being asked for a selfie. Depending on the set this can lead to dismissal or even blacklisting.

On the Big Screen

It can be really fun to spot yourself in the background of scenes on TV or the big screen, but don’t be too disappointed if you don’t. Even featured extras with lines can end up on the cutting room floor. Many years ago I was super disappointed when my line opposite the lead actor was cut in the final film. But that is just how the cookie crumbles. It’s best to not take it too seriously but view it as a fun experience where you make a few bob.