4 little secrets that keep you booked
Background acting is a side hustle for some, a main source of income for others, and a lucrative hobby for others. If you’ve found a production that’s a joy to work with, here are a few ways to ensure you’ll become a core member of their team.
1. Impress the wardrobe team
If you’re non-union, you’re required to bring up to 3 wardrobe options that fit the set’s needs. Have a garment bag, shoe options, and bring style that shows you care about the production as much as they do.
If you’re part of SAG-AFTRA, per the union rules, you’re not required to bring options, and depending on the production’s needs, you’ll have a fitting where your “costume” will be provided upon arrival. If no fitting is scheduled, still bring clothing options. You never know who’s who on a set, and it’s better to leave a positive impression than to be just another number on the roster. This also decreases your checkout time upon wrap because you won’t have to wait in the wardrobe line.
Sometimes that extra step makes all the difference.
2. Help the BG PA
A PA is at the lowest totem pole of the crew. Sometimes they make less than background actors. But today’s PA can easily be tomorrow’s 1st AD. Help them set up chairs. Offer to pass out paperwork if the set only does paper vouchers. Always volunteer when they ask for people to be placed. Some like to hide and remain in holding, essentially getting paid to do nothing. Help tidy an area that isn’t yours. Ask them how their day is. Compliment how great a job they’re doing.
3. Don’t load up on crafty/catering
An inside joke on set is that background actors mainly come to set to eat. It’s funny, accurate, and easy to do if the scenes require little background usage. A few lonely trips throughout the day are fine; however, keep in mind that someone is always watching. Stuffing handfuls of snacks in your bag is uncouth. Taking numerous to-go boxes of catering food without asking shows a lack of manners and an overabundance of audacity. Treat the set as the home of an adult you respect.
4. Be in character
Some actors become disillusioned after doing a lot of background because they begrudge not having speaking roles. Some simply see being on set as a paycheck and nothing more. The PAs and 2nd ADs can tell when you’re barely doing what is asked. Or if you look pained to be alive. It distracts the scene, and now they have to spend extra time removing you and find a BG actor who can mime a friendly conversation. Instead, be in the scene. Pretend each take is a conversation you’re actually having. Like each walk had a real destination. It also helps the day go by faster because you’re not watching the clock.
There are instances where background actors may obtain speaking roles on set. It could be you, and it could never be. You may reach your goal through an audition or other means. In the meantime, try to get as much work as you can by following these steps, and enjoy your process toward greatness.
This could be you!
Make every moment count!
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