What to expect when you’re extra-ing: Advice from the set of '1923'

Carey O'Donnell
·4 min read
In between takes on the set of "1923," shade was prized as cast and crew endured an astounding September heatwave in Butte, Montana.
In between takes on the set of "1923," shade was prized as cast and crew endured an astounding September heatwave in Butte, Montana.

Here are some hard-learned lesson about being a background player for a TV or film production:

Carey's 'Yellowstone' story: From home in Palm Beach to movie extra on set of 'Yellowstone: 1923'

REGISTER YOURSELF: Step one is to search a show’s website and social media pages to see if they need extras, before and during the shooting schedule. There is almost always a link to the casting company. Sign yourself up online and be prepared with proof of COVID vaccination, a head shot, full body photo, plus any additional images that may be relevant.  I added a shot of myself on horseback crossing a river in Montana since the casting company for “1923” cited a need for extras who can ride.

You’ll build a detailed profile that includes height, weight, complexion type, hair color and style, languages spoken, proficiency with accents, where you are willing to work, etc.  Normally, a profile is free to create, but some companies also offer the option for a paid page, implying that you might get more attention. Don’t buy it.

IF YOU’RE SELECTED: You’ll be contacted (usually by email) and told which role, how long you will be needed on the day(s) of filming, and what time to present yourself at the check-in location. You must confirm that you accept the offer.

Additional details like parking and what to bring with you are often sent as late as the evening prior to the shoot via email, posted to a website or provided by recorded phone message. It’s essential to stay connected to your casting source the day before the shoot so you’re ready to roll the next day.

Never, ever be late to your check-in as it could cost you the gig and get you scratched from future jobs. Fill out your voucher and hang onto your copy. It’s how you get paid. Double check the hours noted at the end of your day – I was accidentally shorted.  Newbies are typically non-union, so check that box. Wardrobe will take your voucher as insurance that you’ll return your costume and/or prop at the end of the day.

Clash of the centuries, "1923" flappers take a break, stocked with 2022 water bottles.
Clash of the centuries, "1923" flappers take a break, stocked with 2022 water bottles.

BRING A PERSONAL BAG: You will be encouraged to bring a small bag with snacks in case you don’t wish to take a chance with the provided F&B (that's industry speak for food and beverages). Water for extras is typically available unless they advise otherwise. Seasoned pros tell me that the following items are always handy: a collapsible umbrella for shade on a sunny set; phone charger or supplemental battery; earphones; sunscreen; dental floss; aspirin; eye drops or contact solution, lipstick or Chapstick. Be sure you have something to read or play in case of long waits between takes or what could be hours in the holding area before you get called to set.

The casting company for "1923" warned us not to place “anything you can’t afford to lose” in your bag since no one is assigned to stand guard over your belongings.  Nothing was lost despite close to 100 bags stacked haphazardly throughout a bar that played host to our needs for the day. But that leaves open the question about what to do with your car keys, since they are often too bulky to conceal in your costume. I left mine behind but slipped my iPhone into my thick black Temperance stocking since the length of my dress concealed the telltale lump. Otherwise, the eagle eyes in the costume department would have swooped in to remove it.

In some cases, you are asked to bring personal clothing items that you’ll wear on set – choose a small garment bag (with pockets) if they need to hang.

EXPECT A TOUGH DAY:  Non-union extras are at the bottom of the film production food chain, so don’t take your status as last-on-the-list personally – just enjoy the work and roll with the schedule, even if you’re still at it 12 to 14 hours later. Don’t expect gourmet food or Lazy Boys in the holding areas.

Working as an extra may require long days in uncomfortable footwear. Carey O'Donnell advises: Roll with it.
Working as an extra may require long days in uncomfortable footwear. Carey O'Donnell advises: Roll with it.

DON’T EVER PLAY WITH GUNS:  If you’re issued a gun for your part, keep it holstered until/unless the AD tells you to unholster it. The world of film production is terrified of mishaps on set, so never play with your prop, point it at anyone or take a picture of it in jest. Nothing about guns on set is a joke, as we are all too aware in the aftermath of the tragedy on the set of "Rust" last year.

CULTIVATE RELATIONSHIPS:  Be respectful and genial to everyone you meet – the other extras and every crew member. Wait until you see how hard production crews work; it’s mind-boggling. Courtesy and appreciation can pay off with better positioning on set, perhaps a small speaking part, and you might even get early scuttlebutt about the day’s progress. Plus, it’s just nice to be nice.

This article originally appeared on Palm Beach Post: Takeaways from Palm Beach resident, an extra on 'Yellowstone: 1923'