What qualities should an extra or background actor have?
The more diverse the tastes of the audience, the more varied the media and show formats and the more curious the requirements for actors who breathe life into the stage set or recording.
If you are tall, athletic and a gifted parkour runner, you would be an ideal double for an actor in action-packed stunts. Are you an excellent dancer? Then a party scene in a club is perfect for you, because the background should look dynamic and not be filled with lots of uncoordinated people. Do you think you look quite normal and are rather inconspicuous? All the better, because YOU can also be an ideal cast member for mass shoots.
We are not only looking for ordinary, everyday people, but also interesting personalities ("people") who leave a lasting impression with their character and individual style. These people don't fit into the prevailing images of beauty, but they have that certain something that many producers, directors and photographers are looking for, because they are authentic and can convey a role or story in a more genuine way than anyone else.
Conclusion: No matter who you are, what you can do, what you look like and how old you are, you definitely have a chance of becoming an extra. Take the plunge and apply now!
What vocational training is required?
In our article "Job profile: extra", we also talk about whether training is necessary. The answer is clear: no, you don't need any training - as you've probably already guessed. Extras and background actors belong to the group of amateur actors, just like bit-part actors, who act on a part-time basis and do not have a degree in acting.
How do I convince people in the application process for a first job?
The first step is your informative, written application. Make sure that your personal information is correct and up-to-date. Use high-quality photos, videos, vocal samples and other recording material. In addition, attach a personalized cover letter to your application in which you explain exactly:
why you are applying for this position
why you are the right person for the job
what you can contribute to the success of the production.
In the second instance, you will hopefully be invited to an casting or a personal audition. However, a written application is usually sufficient for extras jobs - but it must be flawless in order to be successful.
Clients often only contact you personally if your application is successful. If the job doesn't work out, don't be sad and keep at it. The next job is waiting for you!
