You've landed your first TV or film gig as an extra in Atlanta. Now it's time to nail your screen time, so you can be asked back. But how do you do it? Janel Bersabal of Extras Casting Atlanta (ECA) and Bill Marinella of Marinella Hume Casting have you covered.
>>RELATED: How to get cast on the movies shooting in Atlanta this summer
Point blank: If you don't show up, it makes them look bad. If you show up and you fail to follow directions or trample others to get in front of the camera, it makes them look bad. If you ask stars for a selfie while they're on set, it makes them look bad and (Atlanta actors as a whole) unprofessional. Rule No. 1: Don't make them look bad. That's a guarantee you will never be invited back to set.
"I can't speak for other casting companies, but we take into consideration what they've done in the past and if we've had any issues with them," Berbasal said. "It's like any other job. We want someone super reliable and on time."
Marinella agreed, adding that having a flexible schedule helps aspiring background talent get repeated bookings. It's the simple rule of supply and demand. If you're available with a good track record, you've won half the battle. Marinella also stressed good grooming habits and a versatile wardrobe. A majority of times, background extras are asked to bring three outfits to set, which wardrobe will choose and approve. The key is to look the part but not to stand out or call attention to yourself. In other words, they call it background for a reason. Always remember that. Also, don't submit a professional headshot to work background.
"Be truthful and honest when submitting sizes and photos," said Marinella. "Selfies are best. Don't wear a hat or sunglasses. Make sure your pictures are in focus, clear and against a plain wall with no distractions in the background, such as plants or a painting."
And by all means, if you submit for work, keep your phone handy. You'll receive confirmation of your booking either via email or by phone.
"If you submit and you get a call and don't recognize the number, please try to answer the darn phone," Marinella said.
Beyond all else, don't get discouraged. Background work is appearance-based. You can have the most versatile look in the world and still not be a perfect match for every production. The beauty of working in metro Atlanta right now, though, is there are plenty of sets and ample opportunity.
"It's a tricky time to work as an extra in Atlanta because there's so much going on. It's really about hitting people at the right time," Bersabal said.
Keep checking ECA's and MarinellaHume's Facebook page for current listings or track them on Twitter. ECA has a website, but relies on social media to post current extra opportunities. However, be sure to complete your profile online to be included in their database. The same holds true for Marinella. However, he offers classes to help extras advance their careers. And like ECA, he encourages background talent to register with his online database, which is free.
About the Author
