Becoming an Extra

Whenever you watch a film or TV drama you will see numerous extras in the background making scenes look and feel realistic. Have you ever wondered who these people are and how they became extras.

Who are these people?

They represent and consist of a broad cross section of society. From children to OAPs whatever your colour, size, shape, age or haircut. Sometimes they're just after bodies to fill in a background but equally often they are looking for specific type to act as featured walk-ons.
How do they become extras?

The most common way is to register with a reputable casting agency that specialises in extras, who will then hold an individual's specific details on file. It is common practice for production companies to directly approach casting agencies with a list of "extras" requirements, which the agency then draw together from those people on its books.
What does it involve?

  • Acting experience - No experience is necessary but you must be willing to take directions and be able to resist looking directly into the lens.
  • Dressing up - Depending on the story line, being an extra usually involves wearing some kind of costume. Always give your true clothes sizes.
  • Long shooting day - A shooting day usually last 10hrs with an additional hour for lunch. Sometimes an extra will be required for the entirety of the shoot whilst on other lucky occasions it may only be for a half day.
  • Early starts - The shooting day often begins early in the morning. Being an extra usually means wearing a costume and having make-up applied. This often means that the 'call' time can be extremely early.
  • Waiting around - The film process involves a lot of hanging about waiting for scenes to be set up. Whilst production companies will always try to provide a warm and dry holding area for you, it is always advisable to wear thermals and carry a set of gloves.
  • Continuity extras - These are extras that repeatedly appear over a number of scenes or episodes as the same character.
  • Additional info - It is often an advantage to give details of any hobbies or interests you have to the casting agency. Sometimes film companies want people to bring specific items such as a certain type of car, dogs or even musical instruments.
  • Where can I find out more?

    Press adverts
    You may see press advertisements for extra work from agencies who, in the first instance request a payment in order for you to register for work. In the opinion of Northwest Vision and Media this is not best practice and casting agencies should always vet and interview potential background artistes before any money changes hands.

    Northwest Casting Agencies
    You can find details of casting agencies by doing a search on our facilities database. The agencies are known to Northwest Vision and Media as having provided a service to the film & TV industry and in turn Northwest Vision and Media promotes them to the film & TV industry.

What other details are important?

Fees
When contacting an agency remember that it is illegal and against lawful employment practise for any agency to charge both an agency fee and to take a commission on any work found on your behalf. The agencies listed here should charge only one of these fees, not both!

Daily rates
Payments for background artistes vary according to the production, which industry agreements the company uses, the hours booked and the nature of the work.

There are 3 main agreements used:
Equity/ITV agreement: £69.54
Equity/PACT agreement: £89.85
Equity/BBC agreement: £93.60

There are different rates applying to under 16s. Please also note that there are legal restrictions on the length of working hours for children. The casting agency will be able to advise you on the current restrictions which are enforced by the local education authorities.

Registering to become a walk-on:

Speak to a range of agencies before you make your choice. Try to visit the agencies in person and chat to the relevant agent direct. Be prepared to ask questions.

Suggested questions:
How long has the agency been operating?
What are their latest credits/most recent productions that they have worked on?
Do they have any specialist categories that you fit into?
What is the cost of registering?

GOOD LUCK!