Become a TV star, hear the cherished “Lights, camera, motor!”, sign autographs at meetings with fans and pose for the paparazzi on the red carpet. Everyone has a chance to participate in the filming of a movie, series, TV show, video clip or advertisement.
How to get into the crowd scene, is the work of the spectator and actor of crowd scenes adequately paid, and can a few seconds in the background become a springboard for an acting career? We figured out these issues, and at the same time talked with regular participants in crowd scenes about their work and impressions.
What is "extras"
A job that does not require special training, is not physically difficult, and allows you to brag to your friends that you have seen stars up close and even worked on a project - isn’t this a dream? How to get to the filming of a program in Ostankino or a new film from Mosfilm or other studios? In Moscow this is quite easy, but residents of other cities should not be upset - they also make films and have a chance to “be featured” in the background or in the background.
Previously, directors entrusted their assistants with recruiting people for crowd scenes, and they were forced to go to school to engage high school students there or catch passers-by on the street. Now the process is streamlined and put on stream. The search for non-professional supporting actors, spectators in the studio, or (special communities are dedicated to this) even the recruitment of participants for rallies is carried out by the foremen. They place advertisements on the Internet, sign up candidates, bring them to the casting and give them their earnings at the end of the shift.
Interesting: Some of the movie and show business stars also started out as extras. Sylvester Stallone first played for Woody Allen in the film Bananas, but did not even appear in the credits. Channing Tatum managed to get on screen in Ricky Martin's She Bangs video, but only for a couple of seconds. Kristen Stewart acted as an extra at the age of 9. Charlize Theron, Renee Zellweger and Milla Jovovich started with long shots and second roles in horror films.
Extras: who are all these people and why are they here?
“Then some kind of movement began, and the organizers began to gather a column of people. My friend and I fell into it. But then a whisper ran through the column: “They won’t take us!” They won’t take this column!” Somehow, my friend and I instantly met two other girls, grabbed hands and ran to the end of that moving column. For some reason no one stopped us. And we passed quietly. The next day at school everyone admired us, because many really didn’t make it to the shooting. And good. They would die there like we did,” Sofia about the filming of the film “Shadowboxing.”
Who plays all these restaurant visitors, spectators at concerts, silent waiters, postmen, taxi drivers, salesmen, and just passers-by on the streets? The most ordinary people, most often students, not necessarily from theater universities, and retirees. Films and TV series constantly require extras, and therefore getting to the set is not a difficult task. However, it’s worth immediately taking into account that, as a rule, this is a full-time job - from the very morning until 10-11 pm, and therefore, working 5/2 full time or studying full-time, it’s not so easy to find an opportunity to participate in filming - it's simple.
– By what criteria are they selected? I ask a man in a bright orange shirt and blue tie.
- Yes, whoever you like, whoever suits the color. Like decorations, each artist has a specific color.
- No, what should I do? This is work! The camera is looking at you, you have to smile, laugh, make them laugh. You work for them! They turn on the soundtrack, the artist comes out, and you clap and smile, and then shout: “Happy New Year!” Nobody cares that you're not having fun at all. You have to be funny to THEM, otherwise, get out!”
“When I went there for the first time, I was very interested in the filming process itself, so I sat in the front row and watched more of the work of the cameramen and lighting crews than what the director, Urgant and Gudkov were talking about. Although when Ivan appeared and somehow unexpectedly appeared above my head, I almost fell out of my chair,” Diana about the filming of the show “Evening Urgant” for Channel One.
“You gain valuable experience working with a camera: you learn to be natural, but at the same time attentive, focused on the task set by the director. This is not as simple as many people think; you need to get used to all this. And I was able to make a lot of acquaintances on the set; useful connections wouldn’t hurt!” – Mikhail about the experience of participating in the filming of detective television series “Maryina Roshcha”, “Trace” and others.
“Since I was going to film a TV show for the first time, I wanted to dispel a certain myth of show business for myself. To see how it’s all filmed, to see how much the audience I saw on the screen corresponds to the reality on the set, how interested the people nearby are in the show, how lively their reactions are. Well, and see Vanya Urgant, of course. The filming was a pleasant surprise: Vanya’s jokes are funny, and the live music from the group “Frukty” gives optimism, and the audience around is sincerely happy,” - Anastasia about the filming of the show “Evening Urgant” for Channel One.
Where to sign up to be an extra?
To get into the crowd, the most convenient way is to look for a suitable project on sites dedicated to finding part-time work on filming and surveys. There are many such sites, let’s name the largest ones:
- net;
- kcom;
- cru;
- ru ;
- ru (social network);
- ru (agency);
- ru (ads aggregator);
- ru (portal of St. Petersburg).
In the regions, you can look for invitations to filming on local notice boards. There they are posted in the “part-time jobs” sections. The resources tttv.ru and vsekastingi.ru have sections for different cities. You can search for relevant communities on social networks; most of these groups are on VKontakte.
The largest site offering all types of part-time work, one way or another related to the world of cinema and TV, is Massovki.net. In essence, this is a large forum, including sections for St. Petersburg and the regions. It has a subsection for professionals, as well as a forum for those who are willing to pay money to have a role selected for them. This is the oldest platform currently existing, where professionals and amateurs, united by a love of acting and the big screen, have been communicating for more than 10 years. A beginner should start from this site - here you can read tips, ask questions, look at the section “Analysis of scams and scams” (we strongly recommend that you also read about online scams) or “Reviews of agencies.”
Where can I find information about recruiting extras?
Forum Massovki.ru: On this site, employers post vacancy announcements, and aspiring and professional actors post their resumes. This is a meeting place for employers and job seekers, and therefore you will certainly find many interesting offers for yourself.
Similar, but smaller sites for recruiting extras for filming in Russia and Ukraine will be https://www.stunner.ru/ and https://tttv.ru/. And for those interested in participating in the filming of a TV show, the website https://telepropusk.ru/ is suitable.
You can sign up for some major television projects as a guest directly on their official website. This is how, for example, viewers are recruited for the filming of the Channel One show “Evening Urgant” - https://urgantshow.ru/form (follow the link you will find a viewer form, by filling out which you will receive confirmation and details about the filming time by email).
But experienced actors do not recommend using groups on social networks for employment:
“Extras and filming groups” on VKontakte – you can’t trust them. Offers came, I went through castings, getting into different roles (not just extras), but in most cases it was a “scam”, they say: “Sorry, you are suitable for us, but you have to pay for us to cast you.” There is no point in searching on VKontakte, only through film studios or knowledgeable people,” says acting college student Danila.
Naturally, the bulk of the offers on all these sites apply only to Muscovites, since filming takes place at Moscow television studios or in metropolitan clubs, and ends very late. There are fewer, but still quite a lot of offers for extras in St. Petersburg; in other cities of Russia, filming is carried out much less frequently and they rarely recruit extras there.
How to sign up for a project
In some venues, finding a suitable program, film or project that requires people to create a crowd or fill the auditorium is quite easy. The larger the site, the more time it will take to find a good option and there is no need to rush here. First, decide on your capabilities:
- how much time are you willing to spend - there are shoots of 3-6 hours with low pay, and there are also 12 hours, for which you can get from 1000 rubles;
- Do you have a suitable outfit, shoes, accessories (some people buy dresses specifically, for example, for filming the New Year's lights);
- Are you ready to freeze outside (or bake in the sun) or will you only agree to film in a pavilion/cafe/auditorium;
- what are you going to use to get home if filming goes on past midnight;
- can you learn the text (roles with words are paid more);
- are you ready to answer questions from your relatives if your role in the program turns out to be unflattering;
- Are you capable of not disclosing what you learned during filming at least for the time required by the contract (there is such a condition!).
The most convenient way to start is by participating in the filming of programs. There, it’s enough to just sit in the hall and, at a sign from the administrators, either laugh and clap your hands, or remain silent, or express some other simple emotions. But even for such projects, skilled lovers of getting into the frame prepare in advance. For example, for a long shoot of shows and holiday concerts, it is worth taking a drink and a couple of sandwiches.
Having found an interesting offer, look for the foreman’s contact information in the ad. Now it is no longer relevant to leave a request in the discussion topic. Firstly, there are many applicants and it is difficult for those who do not make it to the first page to attract attention. Secondly, when you send your data via SMS, e-mail, WhatsApp, Viber, you immediately open the opportunity to answer you without wasting time dialing your number. This makes it much more convenient for the foreman to send an invitation; he can even send out a general newsletter and you won’t miss it. If you want to regularly appear on TV, then immediately subscribe to the mailing list of new offers.
Important: Write your real first and last name in the application - money for work is paid according to your passport. Indicate your age without embellishment - you will still be selected again on the spot. To participate in filming, please indicate your size, height, and hair color (they may be given costumes). Where possible (forum, social network), attach 3 photos - a portrait, full-length, general view. Be sure to leave your contacts and preferably at least 2 options - email and phone.
Paid registration
Some sites have paid registration. It is inexpensive, in the range of 500-2000 rubles. It is best to use this service after gaining minimal experience in filming as an extra. First, you should evaluate whether you want to continue working like this. For many, one time is enough to fully drink in the glory and look for other sources of income at home.
To get into the paid database, you need to take beautiful photographs, and this is an additional cost (from 2000 rubles and without restrictions). Without a description of work experience, your portfolio will have little chance of success. Find out what services the site offers for the money you are willing to pay.
Sometimes on the same site you can find professional photographers who are ready to make a high-quality portfolio for money. However, all these works are for those who intend to develop as an actor or model. Such people are ready to invest in their training and professional advancement. Earnings with this approach are deferred for an indefinite period.
Can working as an extra be a step on the path to fame?
Leonardo DiCaprio began his career by playing bit parts in the TV series Roseanne and The New Adventures of Lassie, and then received a larger role in another soap opera, Santa Barbara.
Orlando Bloom began his career with episodic roles in the television series Casualty. It is worth noting that Bloom by this time had an acting education.
Julia Roberts also began her career , who for several years played tiny roles in little-known films before she was able to attract the attention of producers and achieve at least supporting roles.
Keira Knightley has acted as an extra, participated in many TV shows and received episodic roles in TV series.
Sergei Bezrukov first appeared in films as a street child in the film “Stalin's Funeral”; his name is not listed in the credits. Only after repeatedly participating in filming as an actor in crowd scenes did Bezrukov begin to receive offers to play supporting roles.
Where are non-professional actors needed?
The main source of work for extras is television programs and programs that show a large auditorium. People are also needed for cinema, advertising, and shooting music videos. They recruit people to participate in actions, rallies, and collect signatures.
Filming about history and war often takes place in cities such as Smolensk, Ryazan, Tula, Nizhny Novgorod, Tula, Tver. In such cases, they often immediately explain what type is needed. If you do not fit the definition (for example, security guards are required, and you are a fragile blond man with thin-rimmed glasses), then there is no point in sending a request. There are many projects where the requirements for appearance and age are minimal.
In the second half of autumn, people often recruit people to take part in filming New Year's lights and other musical programs. Viewers are often needed for health programs. There they may offer you not only to sit in the hall, but also to perform on stage or ask a question from the audience. They are actively recruiting actors for roles in court programs and investigations.
Reviews about the work
Judging by the numerous reviews on the Internet, there are both negative and positive experiences. It is often written that the lower the payment, the worse the attitude towards the crowd participant.
Some people have been taking part in crowd scenes for several years and are very happy.
You can read reviews on the following resources:
- woman.ru
- otvet.mail.ru
- pikabu.ru – there are a lot of reviews under the article
- acmodasi.ru – review of filming in the TV series “Fizruk”
- massovki.net
At the start
If the foreman has selected you to participate in the filming, you will be called or sent an invitation. It will contain the exact time and place of the meeting. You must answer and confirm that you will come. You should not be late, as most likely you will meet in the subway to participate in the crowd. There, the foreman will once again examine the candidates and may reject someone if they are not satisfied with their appearance. Be prepared for the fact that you will not have the opportunity to clean yourself up, put on makeup or change clothes beforehand.
There is also no point in being late because only the foreman knows where exactly to go (or take a specially hired bus). When filming some television programs and films, extras are gathered at the entrance to the studio. One of these places is the famous Mosfilm, the second is Ostankino. They say that it will be possible to go to Mosfilm without a foreman (in fact, with a guided tour, entrance fee is 300-500 rubles, pre-registration). But you can’t get to Ostankino even this way - there is a serious access system there. By the way, they don’t let you in without Moscow registration.
Useful life hack: It is advisable to always have your portrait photographs on hand, on the back of which your contact information, first and last name, date of birth, height, clothing and shoe size will be written. When you meet a new extras foreman, you can leave him your photo so that he will call you when there is a new proposal for filming.
Are actors in crowd scenes paid for their work?
Price tags for participation in crowd scenes of films or TV series vary from 600 to 1000 rubles, less often they offer large sums (as a rule, they pay more than a thousand for playing a passing role with a replica).
You can also earn extra money by participating in the filming of television shows - both as guests on talk shows and as spectators in the hall. Here they pay from 150 to 600 rubles, rarely offering larger amounts. Rates are approximately the same for participation in the filming of music videos and commercials.
To participate in paid filming, as a rule, it is necessary to undergo at least an absentee casting - based on a photo, and also to exactly meet all the parameters presented by the employer (height, clothing and shoe size, hair length and color, type of appearance, nationality, and so on).
Such castings are held infrequently; more and more often they are now limited to simply selecting people based on photos via e-mail and Internet forums.
“The requirements for extras are not as high as for episodic actors and leading actors, but you still always need to give 100% - in case they notice you, one of the directors likes you. Although some extras perform poorly because they believe that this is not a role. And at the same time, such actors are still waiting for grandiose roles! Even if you have a small role, you need to play it in such a way that everyone remembers it!” – Mikhail tells us about his experience of participating in the filming of the detective series “Maryina Roshcha”, “Trace” and others.
Although there are many paid vacancies in this area, according to the reviews of all the extras, earning a living with such work is incredibly difficult, if not almost impossible. The filming process requires constant full concentration from all actors, long waits, and precise execution of all the director’s instructions, and food and rest for extras are, as a rule, not provided.
“Extras at the Fashionable Sentence are given 500 unfortunate rubles for 12 hours of filming. Many grandparents living nearby were in the studio during this time without proper food precisely because of this money,” Diana about the filming of the “Fashionable Verdict” program for Channel One.
“Those who spent time filming two programs were paid 300 rubles. On the set I met people who make only this living. They are seasoned, to some extent “friends” in Ostankino, they are known by sight by the organizers - impartial women who gather people for filming and call them to inform them about the time of the next filming,” - Marina about the filming of the program “Closed Screening” for Channel One .
“It’s stupid to do this for money. Only perhaps out of love for art or a desire for dubious fame,” - Anastasia about filming the film “Tsar”.
“Many of my friends manage to fully support themselves on such earnings. True, I’m not one of them,” Victoria about filming in the youth television series “Club”, “Daddy’s Daughters”, “Don’t Be Born Beautiful” and others.
During work
What will happen while working as an extra depends on the chosen project and the duration of the shoot. If we are talking about participation in a program, for example “Russian Lotto”, then it is filmed quickly - in 3-4 hours. You don't even need a snack, but all you get as payment is a lottery ticket.
If the shoot lasts throughout the day, be prepared to spend most of that time waiting in the dressing room or studio hallways. This is where you will need tea, water, and a snack. Experienced people advise taking chocolate bars with you.
If the project is filmed over 2-3 days, a change of clothing may be required. Sometimes foremen ask you to change clothes even during one-day filming, then you will have to take another dress or shirt with you.
Important: Follow the specified clothing requirements. Checks, stripes and large inscriptions are almost always prohibited. Each project has its own nuances in terms of colors and dress code; in some places it needs to be brighter, and in others it needs to be darker.
During breaks from work, it is worth establishing contacts with others. You can ask experienced participants for contact information of foremen, advice on how to get involved in interesting projects. When the “let’s take off” signal sounds, you are prohibited from speaking or getting up from your seat (unless you have been assigned a role).
About conflicts
It is not in your interests to have conflict on the site, within the studio or in the presence of the foreman. Any manifestation of negative emotions is a major disadvantage to your chances of participating in the crowd again. When the filming process is going on, you must maintain silence, the main thing is not to doze off and not miss the moment when you need to clap or laugh.
If 2-3 programs are being filmed at once, then there will be breaks in the process. At this time, participants are transferred or changed from one stream to another. This is a chance to have time to go to the toilet, but it’s better not to risk it (they might not let you out) and worry about it before the recording starts. If the administrator suggests visiting the bathroom, you should listen to his recommendations.
Conflicts in the hall happen extremely rarely, but they do happen. In this case, it is best to withdraw yourself and try not to be involved in a scandal or fight (and this happens). Presenters can be very rude both to colleagues and to random people. All this should be ignored. Even if you are right on your side, no one will listen to the crowd.
How much do they pay to participate in extras?
How much do crowd scene actors earn?
A crowd actor (AMC) is both guests in the studio in the background and an actor with a small role in the episode being filmed.
The people here are unprofessional actors, often without experience and with low pay from 300 to 800 rubles per shift.
Payment increases from 800 rubles to 2,000 rubles when playing a role of a certain type in a group scene or fulfilling the requirement of having certain external data (length and color of hair, fullness of the chest, shoe size, bitchiness or glamor, etc.).
This level of payment is set when filming commercials, videos, and TV series.
If an extra from the general crowd stands out in some way, he receives payment above the usual rate by about 30–50%. It could be:
- a short remark or question on the show;
- the guest on whom the camera lens most often focuses;
- an actor with a different set of actions from others.
High pay - up to 4,000 rubles - is provided for extras in such specific roles as:
- corpses;
- nude characters.
An episodic actor is the last step before professional acting with a dedicated role. They are looking for people from the crowd for small roles in TV series, films or programs. For an episodic role they pay up to 10,000 rubles per day .
Episodic actors include those who perform roles in forensic and medical programs. Here the payment for the role is 3–7 thousand rubles .
ATTENTION. After the broadcast of the program, it is realistic to count on repeated participation only after six months.
Group Actor Pay Amount
| Service | Time | Payment, rub. | ||
| Minimum | Maximum | Average | ||
| Clip shooting | 60 minutes | 786 | 11 002 | 6 232 |
| Children's participation in films, TV shows, advertising | Change | 900 | 32 633 | 13 841 |
| Extras for any role | Per day | 750 | 4 000 | 2 375 |
| Episodic role | 10–12 hours | 1 502 | 8 150 | 2 828 |
| Crowd Actor | Change | 953 | 3 181 | 2 199 |
| Shooting teenagers | Change | 872 | 12 730 | 3 251 |
REFERENCE. When children participate in group filming, they must be accompanied by legal representatives. That is, payment is also a fee for parents.
The monthly earnings of a professional statistician with full daily employment and maximum pay can reach 60 thousand rubles .
There are also actors from extras in films, documentaries and feature films, reconstructions, program plots, and music videos.
Their payment ranges from 800 to 2,000 rubles. Work varies from a couple of hours to a full shift. The fee may be paid for:
- preliminary fitting and filming;
- rehearsal and filming.
Each stage may take place on different days and payment will be made for them.
Additional requirements may be imposed on extra actors:
- no tattoo;
- specific size;
- hair length;
- possession of some skill - the ability to dance, juggle, etc.
In Moscow, there are no problems with recruiting extras, despite the abundance of films, programs, and commercials being shot. In the regions, gathering extras is problematic.
How much do AMCs pay for TV shows?
The amount of payment for a mass actor is indicated for the entire shooting time of a video clip, program or shooting day in a film. Depending on the format, the duration ranges from 2 to 16 hours. Sometimes it drags on into the night.
Before agreeing to participate, it is necessary to compare payment and duration.
Short shows can be filmed several times a day. And the payment for participation in all of them is immediately reduced. For example, when filming an hour and a half talk show “Male/Female,” extras are paid 300 rubles for 1 program, 500 rubles for 2, 700 rubles for 3. The end of the program depends on the beginning of the “motor”.
Payment for extras in socio-political talk shows.
| Broadcast | Payment, rub. | Duration | Notes |
| “Tolstoy. Sunday" | 300 | 10:20–14:30 | Young people preferred |
| "Who's against it?" | 400 | 12:30–17:30 | No older than 40 years, 500 rubles for beautiful youth |
| "Time will show" | 500 | 10:20–19:00 | Only Russians |
| "60 Minutes" | 600 | 11:00–20:00 | Up to 40 years old |
| "Voting right" | 300 | 08:45–12:00 | Shooting while standing |
Payment for work as an extra in popular entertainment talk shows.
| Broadcast | Payment, rub. | Duration of participation | Note |
| "Let's get married" | 700 | 10:45–22:30 | |
| "Voice - children" | 700 | 18:30–22:30 | |
| "Today. The day begins" | 700 | 9:30–22:30 | |
| "Million Dollar Secret" | 500 | 10:30–19:30 | |
| "Fashionable verdict" | 750 | 9:45–22:00 | |
| "About the most important thing" | 700 | 09:00–19:45 | +300 rub. for questions from the floor |
| "Live" | 500 (2 gears) | 14:00–21:00 | Up to 45 years old |
| "Russian Lotto" | 400 | 13:00–20:00 | |
| "Let them talk" | 250 | 14:30–19:00 | On-site selection |
Increased demands are placed on extras actors in staged shows. The fee depends on the show:
- “Living Healthy” with Elena Malysheva – from 1,500 to 6,000 rubles;
- “About the most important things” with Dr. Agapkin - from 3,000 to 10,000 rubles.
The roles in a court show, such as plaintiff, defendant, and witness, are determined through casting. The payment amount is:
- “Courtroom – Battle for Money” – 1,500–3,000 rubles;
- “Good with fists” – 3,000–5,000 rubles;
- “Family Matters”, “Battle for the Future” - 1,500–2,000 rubles.
When participating as a spectator in a TV show, you can actually earn 10,000–16,000 rubles in 22 working days.
What determines the amount of pay for mass shooting actors?
The amount of the fee for participation in the crowd depends on:
- channel;
- project;
- time of day;
- role performed.
There are enough reviews in the public domain, from which it is clear that the line of people wanting to play the role of the silent actor is not ending. After all, no special skills, abilities, or professional training are required for this.
And they pay decent sums for participation - from 300 rubles to 10,000 rubles.
The popularity of the program and the availability of a budget for the clip or film are also important factors when paying for participation.
As a pleasant bonus, actors are offered:
- additional payment for questions from the spot;
- delivery to the metro station;
- very rarely - food.
IMPORTANT. The amount of payment does not depend on experience, appearance or age. But they serve as passing criteria when selecting applicants.
Participation in crowd scenes is one of the possible ways to earn money, and some use it to start a professional acting career. In the process, many candidates are eliminated, but new ones are constantly joining their ranks, despite the difficulties and vicissitudes of the profession.
How are extras paid in other countries?
In America, professional extras of the SAG guild receive a minimum of 22 thousand rubles ($343) per shift on a project. The annual salary can reach 4 million rubles ($60,000). Extras with no experience in the profession receive about 5,000 rubles per shift ($73). Membership in the guild is awarded after 3 participations in filming.
In other countries, translated into Russian rubles, extras receive:
- in the UK - about 4,500 rubles (64 euros);
- in Ukraine – up to 780 rubles (up to 300 hryvnia);
- in Belarus - up to 620 rubles (20 Belarusian rubles), grouping - up to 780 rubles (25 Belarusian rubles)
REFERENCE. In Belarus, AMC wages are the lowest, so films by Russian directors are often shot there.
What if they are scammers?
As everywhere where there is money, in the world of cinema and TV, you can run into scammers. The most common deception is the offer to create a portfolio, which guarantees quick success on the screen. There are a lot of approaches, from selling fake diplomas from a modeling school, to offering to make an advance payment for renting a studio for shooting photos and videos, or for clothes. Any demands to pay is the most obvious sign of fraud.
Another common technique is an invitation to filming, accompanied by a requirement to make an advance payment for a studio pass. This is a scam, passes to all studios are issued free of charge, all you need is a passport.
Unfortunately, advertisements of scammers appear even on the most reputable sites for hiring extras. The administration of the portals tries to identify and block such users, but they register fake accounts and appear again from time to time. Check the “black list” sections that exist in almost all serious projects.
Can an ordinary person get to the filming of TV shows on First?
Many people still think that only actors are present on the set of television programs. However, let's think logically. There are a huge number of programs being filmed now, and it is impossible to find candidates from the acting community for each one. In addition, the role of the viewer is usually very simple:
- look decent;
- sit or stand quietly, sometimes become active (depending on the format of the program);
- applaud in a timely manner.
Sometimes viewers ask questions to guests or presenters, but even this does not require acting skills. The only important thing is not to be afraid of the camera. Therefore, we draw a simple conclusion: anyone can get on the set of TV shows on First. No special regalia or model appearance is needed. It is important to meet the requirements set by the shoot organizer.
Usually pay attention to:
- age;
- floor;
- appearance, etc.
Therefore, it is not always possible to adapt to the requirements. For example, if a show needs blondes, then a girl can dye her hair, but it will be more difficult to turn into a man if only the stronger sex is suitable for filming.
Reward
Payment for the day of filming is issued upon completion. If the day smoothly turns from evening to night and you are afraid of being late for the metro or train and want to leave early, then no one will look for you to give you money. But if you wait until the end of the process, you can get more than promised. All normal studios pay extra for processing.
As a study of constantly appearing offers shows, the average salary of an extra actor per day on programs and talk shows is about 600 rubles. There are short-term projects, where they pay 300, and long-term ones, with a rate of 1000 rubles. The highest priority is filming commercials. Night shifts are paid from 1000 to 3500 rubles.
If you managed to pass the casting to participate in the episode, you can count on 1000 rubles or more. Depends on the load - whether there will be words, whether preliminary fitting of the suit is necessary. It won’t be possible to film episodes every day—such requests don’t come up that often. A full-fledged episodic role will earn you 3,000–4,000 rubles. For filming with your own props, you pay an additional 100 rubles.
More expensive is a role without words, but with meaning - the image of those who fell on the battlefield or a corpse. Here the rates rise to 4,000 to 6,000 rubles. However, not many people decide to do this, and the extras who are ready for such roles are legendary in the acting community.
Important: If the payment is not a round number (1, 2, 3 thousand), then it is worth taking some change with you - the foremen often do not have change.
How much do they earn as extras abroad?
The hiring of extras in the United States is carried out by the non-professional actors guild SAG. The law prohibits the hiring of outsiders unless guild members are involved. They are guaranteed earnings of $343 per day. Beginners receive less - from $72. To join the guild, you must take part in filming three times for a fee. Extras enjoy all the benefits of professionals:
- food on site;
- additional payments for processing;
- increased rate for work on weekends;
- bonuses for various actions - playing in the rain, appearing in the frame with a cigarette, speaking text.
In England, newcomers receive approximately 65 euros per day of filming. Hours beyond 9 are paid an additional 12 euros. Filming a short commercial can cost up to several thousand dollars. If you manage to get a role with words, then the amount can reach $20,000. In this case, royalties are required - additional payments for displays on the screen.
In Malaysia, rates are close to English and American - $70 per day.
Do expectations match reality?
“The studio looks like cardboard, frankly, it’s drawn out and boring, although the heroines of the program really look shocked, and Evelina Khromchenko looks very professional. But the most important disappointment: the voting for the best clothes is fictitious,” Diana about the filming of the show “Fashionable Verdict” for Channel One.
“I was left with such negativity from our world of cinema that, without professional training, I went to work as a gymnast in the circus. If only it was further away. Although castings often interest me - as a means of self-test,” - Irina about filming the film “Above the Sky.”
“The first thing that caught our eye when we sat down in our seats were the screens above our heads, on which instructions for action appeared: “laughter,” “applause,” Tatyana about the filming of the “Evening Urgant” show on Channel One.
“We sat on some plastic benches, after which it was quite difficult to straighten up. Well, the main disappointment is that we went to the “Closed Screening” in the hope of watching a good movie, and at the same time listening to the opinions of critics and knowledgeable people. But it was not there. They showed us the film company's screensaver. Then there was a pause. And credits. Like, it’s time and honor to know, guys,” - Marina about the filming of the program “Closed Screening” for Channel One.
“I don’t get as much pleasure from filming TV series as I would have from filming feature films. According to rumors, in big cinema there is a completely different organization, everything is more serious, strict, large-scale, a very large film crew works. I would like to immerse myself in this atmosphere, working non-stop inspires me,” Mikhail about his experience of participating in the filming of the detective television series “Maryina Roshcha” and “Trace.”
The advantages of working as an extra
- Working as an extra is an easy way to earn a little money without applying, sending a resume, interviews, or withdrawing money from the Internet.
- There is no work schedule - you can sign up for the project any day. If you want, go every day, if you want, once a month or a year. Suitable for students and pensioners, mothers on maternity leave.
- Low load. Most of the time you either just sit or wait while the lights are set, the props are laid out, and the leading actors are filmed.
- Beautiful photos. If you are lucky enough to get into a costume film or historical picture, then in 90% of cases you will be allowed to take a photo in makeup.
- The opportunity to go where you don’t go in normal life. Beautiful restaurants, old mansions, places on the roofs of old Moscow.
- New social circle. You will have a lot of friends who, like you, are passionate about cinema and television.
- Good attitude. Foremen are people too, they are comfortable working with those they can rely on. They are interested in establishing a normal working relationship with you. If you can’t come or are late, let us know. Responsible and careful people are more willing to be invited to good projects with higher pay.
The most interesting offers 2021
The most interesting roles and offers for extras actors, most often in Moscow, if we are talking about Russia. You can become an “online” viewer of your favorite TV show, for which you will also get paid.
Or, for example, a lot of filming and TV shows are planned in 2021. You can meet your favorite actors on the same set. I can recommend you one link.
Work as a mass producer on a permanent basis in Moscow. Try submitting applications. You might be able to:
For those wishing to get into the series, I suggest you pay attention to these interesting offers:
If you already have experience in filming, be sure to subscribe to our magazine and share the information in the comments!
Minuses
- Part-time work as an extra is not suitable for those who are shy and afraid of being the center of attention. Those who like loneliness will also not be comfortable here.
- Things don't always work out perfectly. Filming may be cancelled, postponed or delayed. If you planned to shoot on a sunny summer day, but it’s raining and windy outside, then you may be invited to another day.
- Early start and late end of the working day. You need to arrive for most projects by 9 a.m., for some even earlier. We have already written about the end - the process often drags on.
- Weather. If filming takes place outside, wind, rain, snow, cold, and heat are likely. You'll have to come to terms with this.
- Many people are annoyed by waiting and inaction. This happens even on short shoots; if you can’t stand it, it’s better to look for another part-time job.
- Lack of amenities is a fairly common problem, including during filming in a studio. There is often a long line to get to the toilets, and there are not enough chairs for everyone.
Witness what is left behind the scenes!
Everyone knows that they often shoot dozens of takes of the same scene, getting different reactions from the actors, choosing the right light, creating the right emotions... Seeing all these episodes and finding out what was left behind the scenes is another privilege of being an extra.
“It was in Anapa on the set of Yeralash. It sounded “Camera, motor, let’s start!” and the guys - “children's camp campers” began to fight with pillows. The director of the camp came, whose role was played by the famous artist Anatoly Zhuravlev. When he began to say his line, a pillow flew at him and landed on the safit. The soffit fell on Zhuravlev - this was not planned. Although he did not receive any serious bruises, filming stopped for that day, since he refused to continue filming...” - episode writer Mikhail about the filming of the TV magazine “Yeralash”.
“The presenters, especially Guzeev, were encouraging. She hilariously screws up takes and talks with the director about absolutely everyday topics, for example, discussing with him who will go where on vacation,” Ksenia about filming the program “Let’s Get Married!” for Channel One.
Career prospects
The main question that interests many is whether it is possible to find a secret door to the world of cinema through crowd scenes and become a screen star? Let us warn you right away - in order to achieve success you need to put in a lot of work. All successful artists who had experience working as extras later studied acting and spent many years rising to the heights of acting.
Career growth in the crowd is quite possible. If you prove yourself well to the foremen, are polite, careful and attentive, then gradually you will begin to be invited not only to the crowd, but also to episodes and also to small roles in programs. You will need a good wardrobe, well-groomed appearance, and general adequacy.
Extras are the first steps on the set. These are spectators in the hall, participants in public scenes, passers-by.
With some experience and luck, you can become an extra . This is also a participant in crowd scenes, but he can be trusted to appear in the frame without words. It didn’t work out to be an extra and an extra in the same project several times—the same people can’t appear in the frame.
Groups are participants in crowd scenes in TV series who portray not random passers-by, but a “collective.” For example, in a film about the work of a clinic, the group portrays nannies and orderlies - they do not change in the hospital and there is nothing terrible if someone’s face is remembered by the audience.
An episodic actor is a person who gets a small role with words. This is not a supporting role as it has no development. Such actors are often required for TV series.
The supporting characters are a real success for an amateur! This role can be significant for the development of the plot. The actor will not only have words, but also some small personal story. They appear on screen several times and are even mentioned in the credits. Supporting characters are often played by professional actors, prizes are awarded for them, and history knows many cases when such a role became the pinnacle of an actor’s career.
The main role is perceived differently for everyone. For some, this is the pinnacle of success, and for others, it is the next step in their career.
Attitude towards extras in the acting workshop
Working as an extra for many is a great start to an acting career. True, there are cases when actors have a disdainful attitude towards extras. What is this connected with? With their own behavior.
“Walking as passers-by for pennies, standing in the background—deserves respect. But there are also such mass actors who, by incredible chance, received small cameos and begin to pretend to be stars,” Rinat, a professional actor.
“We fed him and that’s okay. Whether you are cold or uncomfortable, no one cares. You are not actors, you are extras. You are easily replaceable and not important in the frame. If one girl or boy left or didn’t come, then the missing people are sometimes recruited directly from people passing by - you don’t even have to pay money to them,” Veronica, actress of crowd scenes.
Some tips from experienced extras actors
Nataly, 5 years of filming experience: If the program is about health, then it’s better not to go on stage. We all know Elena Malysheva and her program has a great life. Yes, they will definitely pay extra for this, but there will be no shame). Advice - don’t get into the frame! If you show up too many times, they won’t take you. There can't be identical passers-by in different episodes. You are not the main character, but an extra.
Incomparable, filmed from time to time: I advise everyone to go and at least once see how TV series and programs are filmed, but I don’t recommend taking it as a permanent job. Although I have many friends who like to go to programs and do it every day. A big plus is the acquaintances. There are very, very many of them and there is always someone to talk to. It will not be boring!
Grandma's cat, went to her favorite show: If you like this show, are satisfied with the date and time, and the amount of payment, then leave your details directly on the site, or write to your mobile phone number. I advise you to write to the number, because you will receive a response: positive, that they are hiring you, or negative. They don’t always answer on the site, but sometimes they post lists of viewers.
About extras for cinema
Previously, we looked at extras for series and television shows. Now let's focus on the one that is intended for cinema and other production events. There are professions in which extras are invited to film various films. Both fiction and documentary.
In addition, extras can be hired for:
- Conducting large-scale reconstructions of certain events.
- Organization of plots in television programs.
- Participation in various music videos for musicians.
For one shooting day, an actor of such an extras receives from eight hundred to two thousand rubles. At the same time, the shift can be absolutely any length. Both short (about 2 hours) and long. Around 10-12.
Also, actors of this plan may be paid fees for various types of additional work. Money can be given for initially trying on clothes and performing on camera (during filming). And also for conducting a rehearsal with further filming.
