Movies and TV world is fascinating, and everybody wants to work there. Thousands of people are working in this industry, but not everyone is an actor or actress. There are many other jobs available in this industry, and to work for these different jobs, you just need to apply on an Ad, and that’s it!
The background artists are known as “extra” in this industry. The process of selection for this job is quite short and straightforward. Other than responding to an Ad, you need to get connected with many casting directors in the industry. Some dedicated websites are also there for the selection process for extras. Some local directories are also helpful for this kind of openings.
How to get a job as an extra in TV or Film Industry?
Extras are background actors who serve this industry with their full enthusiasm and support. Many agencies and casting directors publish ads through different mediums based on the requirement for supporting cast and crew. Nowadays, social media like Facebook, Instagram, and Twitter are playing a vital role in the hiring of these supporting actors. Professional extras are the category of high paid extras; they usually work with agents to manage their work.
Experienced extras can earn up to 175$ in a week for an 8-hour shift, but if the duration exceeds, they get paid for extra hours too. Majority of extras are the member of SAG-AFTRA, and they tend to earn more. Getting enough work and pay is a challenge in this industry.
Some extra ways to earn more
If you want to make more in this field, there are many other ways too. In films or TV, there are many sequences, and in those sequences, extras may be required.
Some challenges
Imagine a bone-chilling winter of California but the sequence of the movie is for summer, now what? You need to wear long coats and woolens to justify the role. It can be vice-versa too. Your shift hours can be as long as 12 to 14 hours a day. So, if you want to land as a gig, then other than just your looks, you have to be patient and hardworking.
At last, if you like to get crappy pay and you are okay with irregular work schedules, finding a job as an extra may be fun. Enjoy lavish aristocratic catering specially organized for extras, and if you are fortunate, you may get noticed by the director. You never know, you may even get a chance to get into the industry.