Extra work often requires long hours and flexibility with your schedule. Be prepared to work long hours and be available on short notice. That’s just one of many things you need to keep in mind if you want to work on set.
In this article, I’ll tell you everything you want to know about how to become a movie extra in Atlanta.
Atlanta is #1 when it comes to movie and TV production. There are a lot of ways to get money in Atlanta, like being a movie or TV extra and yes, even becoming an actor.
This article is going to show you what you need to do to become movie or TV extra. I’ve been doing extras work on and off for the past 10 years, including on the sets of some top BET shows as well as Tyler Perry movies.
How To Become A Movie And TV Extra In Atlanta
If you want to work as an extra in movies and TV, you need to find out what’s filming. Metro Atlanta has become a hub for movie and TV shows, especially with film mogul Tyler Perry Studios back in action.
Being an extra is quite different from being an actor. An actor is a trained professional, while an extra is a contract worker hired on the spot. Here’s how to become an actor.
How Much Do Movie Extras Get Paid?
The amount that movie extras get paid largely depend on the project. Most film companies pay an hourly rate to film between eight and 12 hours a day.
The typical pay for an extra in Atlanta is around $60 for eight hours of work, but it could be as high as $100 or $200, depending on what they ask you to do. (Sometimes, meals are included).
1. Network In The Film Community
You need to be able to find movies and TV shows that are filming throughout the city. One of the best resources for that is to begin networking in the local film community.
You should sign up for things like workshops and look in on informational panels having to do with films. Atlanta has a number of organizations that nurture talent in front and behind the camera, including extras.
why not try to attend a yearly film festival this year? Atlanta has several good ones you can use to learn more about the industry. They include:
Atlanta Film Festival
Jewish Film Festival
Bronze Lens Festival
2. Find Top Casting Companies In Atlanta
After you feel that you’ve learned some of the ups and downs about the industry (and you still want to be an extra) it’s time to find some jobs.
Casting calls can be found a variety of places. Sometimes, the movie studio will post about casting calls on its websites. Mainly, they can be found in trade magazines and websites like Backstage.com.
One great place to find casting calls is on the websites of casting companies. Here are some of the top casting companies that hire for Atlanta movie and TV productions.
On the websites of the casting call companies you will be able to register and submit your information. In some cases, they may ask for a head shot or want you to list relevant experience if the part calls for some specificity or a certain skill.
After you’ve applied for some extras roles, a waiting game begins. If you get a call, then they may ask you to show up to a specific location to be fitted or to do other preparations.
If you don’t receive a call to come to filming, you may try another option…
3. Attend Open Casting Calls
You can also attend “open” casting calls, which are those that don’t necessarily have specific needs. Some movies and TV shows just need large amounts of people or a group of people to make a scene look busy.
One example of this is the airplane scene in Flight, which Denzel Washington played lead actor in. I was an “airline passenger” in the movie, which was partially filmed at Screen Gem Studios in Atlanta.
Here’s the scene, which simulated a plane crash. As you can imagine, the people had to scream and make a fuss.
There’s rules to everything, of course, and when it comes to being an extra, you’ve got to adhere to some common restrictions if you want to succeed.
4. Be Professional
When you’re on the set, you’re going to have to behave yourself if you want to remain an extra. That means no asking the stars for a selfie.
Of course you want to be human, but if you’re starstruck, it may be hard for you to restrain yourself and keep your composure. When it comes to being an extra, the production assistant will likely tell you what is and isn’t allowed on set. Try to obey. In most cases, the rules look something like this:
No picture-taking
No talking on set
No gum chewing or eating
No mingling with the talent
So many people who have thought they would use being an extra to get into acting have blew it by not being able to keep cool while filming. Don’t be “that guy” or “that girl.”
5. Beware Of Scams
Unfortunately, when it comes to entertainment, there are always some literally bad actors that try to take advantage of people looking to be on the big and small screen.
Casting calls are rife with scammers looking to exploit inexperienced people. Don’t fall for it. Here are some casting call scams you need to avoid:
Casting Calls Asking For Payment
No legit casting call company will ask you to pay them to be in a movie or TV show. The way it works is that they pay you. It’s a scam.
Vague ‘Modeling’ Jobs
If a casting call or audition reveals very little information other than it’s “looking for an adult for modeling gig” or something like that, it’s super suspicious and shouldn’t be trusted.
Real modeling jobs will state the employer, address and location of the casting call and relevant details such as the time and pay. Always research modeling jobs before you submit your information or go to them.
Inappropriate Requests
Similar to vague modeling jobs, beware of casting calls that ask for inappropriate requests that weren’t specifically mentioned in the casting call.
If the casting director asks you to do something that involves nudity or a bedroom scene and it wasn’t revealed in the casting call, you might want to get out of there.
If you want to appear in a big budget film or TV show, it’s easier than ever today, especially in a city like Atlanta, Georgia.
Being a movie or TV extra is a great way to earn extra money, but it’s not for everybody. In many cases, you may have to be on your feet for long periods of time.
Also, many casting calls may reschedule at the last minute or require you to wait in long lines before filming begins. On the other hand, it’s pretty cool when you see yourself on screen. Also, you can make some great friends in the business. Check out our Casting Section to stay in the loop.
If you want to be an extra for money, sorry, but you won’t get rich. it can be a stepping stone into acting, but you’ve got to stand out and be good at what you do.
