Many assume that finding work as an extra in movie may be simpler and perhaps an easier way to break into a career in acting jobs. An extra is basically a prop or filler that is used to fill out the background or complete a scene in a movie.

No great acting skills may be needed, as you are on the screen for a few minutes. In fact, in some instances, it may be as simple as showing up on the set at the right time. However, the process can be streamlined even further, if you take a proactive stance and begin the process yourself. Whether you are looking to add some fun and excitement to your life or trying start your acting career, being a movie extra is perhaps the easiest way to break in to showbiz. Filmmakers will always need extras for their shows.

Join the drama or acting club in your high school or college to learn the craft.

Auditioning for regular community theatre is also a great experience. If you wish to go straight to TV, you can get the process started.

Most work for extras can often be found in major North American film centres such as Los Angeles, New York, Toronto, and Chicago. Other areas such as Florida and Vancouver also host a fair amount of film productions and you can register at central casting network and other repositories that are dedicated to finding work for extras. There is a minimal registration fee to take your picture and be added to the data base.

Include a professionally photographed headshot with your resume; upload it along an electronic version of your headshot and resume in addition creating the hard copies to distribute personally. Your resume should be tailored specifically toward extra work, and should include detailed physical characteristics such as height, weight, hair and eye color, as well as contact information and any related experience. It is also vital that you include area or knowledge or interest specials skills or hobbies, because you never know when the skills will be needed.

Registration gives you telephone access to call a phone number, and hear all the extra work. You will be informed of all available work for which you may be suitable. It’s useless to pursue a role where the character is a seven foot basket ball player, if you’re less than six foot tall.  Once you’re working, as an extra, you have the chance to network with people, and experience what it is like to be on a set, to develop your acting experience.

There may also be work for extras listed on classified sites.  The good news is that practically anyone can be an extra as all types are needed, and membership in the Screen Actors Guild (SAG) is not needed.