Actor Information and Resources
Breaking into bigger roles isn’t just about talent—it’s a combination of skill development, strategic networking, personal branding, persistence, and using the right tools and resources. Actors who treat their careers as both an art and a business tend to progress more steadily in the industry.
Below are a few links that will help with advice and resources:
How to Start Working as a Background Actor
For many people, acting careers don't begin with speaking roles. One of the most accessible ways to get on a professional set is through background acting, commonly known as extra work. While background performers rarely have dialogue, they play an important role in making scenes feel realistic and alive.
What Background Actors Do
Background actors appear behind the main cast in movies, television shows, commercials, and streaming productions. They might portray restaurant customers, office workers, concertgoers, hospital staff, or pedestrians. Their job is to help create a believable environment without drawing attention away from the featured performers.
Getting Started
Unlike principal acting roles, background work usually doesn't require extensive experience. Most casting companies want recent photos that accurately show your current appearance. Professional headshots can help, but clear, honest photos are often enough for entry-level opportunities.
Many productions cast extras through online casting platforms, local casting agencies, and specialized background casting companies. Keeping your profile updated with accurate measurements, availability, and photos can increase your chances of being selected.
What to Expect on Set
A typical day as an extra involves much more waiting than performing. Call times can be very early, and filming days often stretch well beyond eight hours. During production, you'll spend time in holding areas until you're needed for a scene.
Professionalism matters. Showing up on time, following instructions, and maintaining a positive attitude can help you get rehired by casting teams and assistant directors.
How Much Extras Earn
Pay varies depending on the production, location, and union status. Some jobs pay a flat daily rate, while others include overtime after a certain number of hours. Union productions may offer higher rates and additional compensation for special requirements, such as performing specific skills or providing personal wardrobe items.
Advantages of Background Work
Working as an extra can provide valuable exposure to professional film and television sets. You'll learn how productions operate, observe experienced actors and crew members, and gain a better understanding of the industry's workflow.
For aspiring performers, background work can also be a useful networking opportunity and a way to become comfortable in a production environment.
Potential Drawbacks
Background acting is not usually a fast track to speaking roles. Most extras remain in nonspeaking positions, and the work can be inconsistent. Those pursuing principal acting careers often treat background work as a learning experience rather than a long-term strategy.
Final Thoughts
Background acting can be a practical way to experience life on a professional set, and build industry familiarity. Whether you're curious about filmmaking or hoping to launch a career in entertainment, extra work offers a low-barrier entry point into the world of production.
