The life of an Extra or now days in a modern and often mad world of political correctness "Support Artist" can be rewarding for those wanting to be involved in the business, and if you are lucky to work as a featured artist, financially rewarding too.

Working as an extra is a good way to get paid in your spare time and requires no acting experience. Whilst there are those who have dedicated their lives to becoming professional extras, in reality the purpose of an extra is to bring the production to life in a way that could not happen without any background action. With this in mind it is clear that the role of an extra does not require in depth acting experience. Simply do as directed when on set and you will be fine.

Unfortunately, waiting is a big factor in the role of a film or TV extra, so what should you do when on "the bus", and during what is often a very long day where you may or may not get picked to do your stuff?

Here are some simple ideas:

1. Pack a small (cabin sized) suite case with the following;
   1. Take you own knife, fork and spoon if you hate eating with plastic cutlery
   2. Pack an apron and plenty of tissues. Nothing worse than getting food on you if you are in a period costume, and this could be a wrap for you with no repeat calls
   3. Ensure you have any medication or other items you need in the case
   4. Pack a book or two, cards and anything else that will help pass the time of day
   5. If permitted a personal music system (trying to avoid brand names here) helps to pass the time, one with a radio is even better and earphones that don't blast everyone else around you should be used
   6. If the production is modern pack a selection of other clothing, even shoes, to maximise your chances of getting picked
   7. In winter make sure you have something to wrap around you to keep warm
   8. Learn to cat nap a great way to catch-up on sleep and pass the time until you get called
   9. Make sure you turn your mobile phone OFF
2. Mingle with other Artists, a great way to find out about other work
3. Be on time and do what your asked (told), when asked
4. Don't get all starry eyed and act foolish around the talent, chances are you will not be asked back if you upset someone or get noticed for the wrong reasons
5. Do get noticed for the right reasons
6. Don't get a reputation for being difficult or late. This damages your chances and your agents. This is a sure way to cut your time in the business to an end

If you have any special skill or talents make sure you promote them.

Do you have a car or other vehicle that may be used in a TV or Film production? Make sure it is included in your profile as often these jobs pay good rates. Note: We are adding a section for this to be included in your online profile and searched for by assistant directors and casting agents.

Depending on the amount of projects that we have, and of course the number of people required and on our books, it might be a while before you get your first job as a film or TV extra. It could be even longer before you get your second call. Work is fairly allocated and will be allocated first to those who are reliable with an online profile that enable us to quickly check the requirements for the production are met. Some people might get work every few weeks, others every few months. This is to be expected. It all depends on where you are, and what the industry is looking for.

As we like to keep our Backstage entries short we will revisit this subject again over the coming months.