Extras Casting Do's & Do Nots

EXTRAS CASTING 

    * DO be sure to bring a valid picture ID and your SS card, or passprot, to each and every job.  (YOU MUST BE LEGAL TO WORK IN THE UNITED STATES) If you don't bring them, you might be sent home without compensation.

    * DO get to the set on time; there is no excuse for being late.

    * DO call us if you have any issues getting to set.

    * DO be courteous and abide by set rules.  Turn off phones and pagers.

    * DO check in with the AD or coordinator immediately upon arriving on location and get your voucher.  Make sure you fill out both sides completely, and LEGIBLY. If you do not know how, please ASK!

    * DO anticipate a full day's work; they can be very long.  We never know how long they will be, but understand that you will be expected to stay until you are released.

    * DO bring the correct, complete, and appropriate wardrobe changes; Ladies, please come to the set hair/make-up ready.

    * DO bring a book or other small items to keep you occupied during the day between shots and a few samll snacks.

    * DO remember to return all items that the production may have loaned you.

    * DO call the office immediately at (323)962-0377 if you have any questions, concerns, or if you feel apprehensive about doing/completing something the production my ask you to do.

    * DON'T accept the assignment unless you are certain you are able and willing to work under the conditions described.  If you back out, we will REMEMBER.

    * DON'T EVER replace yourself if you absolutely cannot make your assignment.  Call us and WE will find a replacement.

    * DON'T wander off while on set.  Productions move quickly and the AD's need to know where you are at all times.  IF you must leave the holding area, get approval first and return quickly.

    * DON'T look into the camera or speak while they are rolling unless told to do so.

    * DON'T call the emergency number unless it is a true emergency.  Please ONLY call the emergency number or our office number.

    * DON'T DISTURB THE CAST OR CREW

    * DON'T bring friends, family, or pets to the set.  We want you to have a fun and fulfilling day but always remember that you are in a business environment and should always conduct yourself accoudingly.  This goes for mothers of working children, please don't bring other children.

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The Casting Process

Whether you are a seasoned actor or just starting out, it is important to understand what goes on in the casting process. Casting Directors hire the actors for a specific project. There are various types of casting including, Principal, Extras, Local Principal, and Local Extras. Principal casting will hire the actors for the main (or principal ) parts. Extras casting is in charge of hiring all of the extras (or background talent) for the project. If a project is filmed in several locations there will also be a Local Principal Casting Director, who is in charge of hiring local actors for the principal roles that will be filmed in their area. Local Extras Casting Directors are in charge of hiring the background talent that the project will need when filming in their area.

In order to find actors for certain roles, a Casting Director will send out a 'Breakdown' of the project they are casting. A breakdown is a list of the characters in the script as well as a description ofl the characters. Agents and Managers view the breakdown and choose the actors that fit any of the parts. If they do, the Agent or Manager will submit the actor's headshot and resume. A headshot is an 8 x 10 picture of the actor and the resume is a list of the actor's prior work including films, commercials and theatre. These are called Submissions.
The Casting Director sorts through the submissions and sets up an audition through the actor's Agent. Generally Casting Directors will also send the Agent 'sides'. Sides are a few pages that contains a scene/scenes that involves the character they are auditioning for. Every Casting Director is different and some may require that you have the scene memorized, while others won't, however it is always better to be prepared.

When you arrive for your audition, you will be called into the room with the Casting Director and typically be asked to slate. Slating is when the actor states his/her name, their Agent/Manager's name, and the role they are auditioning for. After you slate, you can begin to perform your audition.

You can find additional casting tips and advice in our Industry Resources Section, under Career Tools 4 Actors.