If you haven’t already read our 5 top tips for being a great extra you should check them out first. This list are the big mistakes you can make as an extra and should be avoided at all costs.
DO NOT approach cast on set
Don’t get starstruck! Just because you feel like you know your favourite star from seeing them on TV or Film doesn’t mean they know you. Being an extra is a job and you need to be professional, even while having fun. The cast are trying to do their jobs do so it is not appropriate to approach them while they are working.
DO NOT eat cast and crew food
In some cases food will be provided for extras as well as the regular cast and crew. In these cases you will be invited to share the food but you should not assume that it is OK to eat cast and crew food.
DO NOT leave set without informing the 3rd or 4th AD
You mustn’t leave set until you have been dismissed. There is usually a sign in and sign out sheet which is used to track your hours on set. If you leave without filling in the correct paperwork you could miss out on being paid properly for your time or ruin a scene that required your presence.
DO NOT be late
This should go without saying, but here is a reminder. If you turn up late, you could jeopardise the schedule for the whole day.
DO NOT Post to social media without permission
Often you will be asked to sign a confidentiality agreement which will prohibit you from posting to social media. In cases when you are not prohibited explicitly, use your common sense and don’t post things that might reveal the plot of the show you are on or other “spoiler” details.
