How to Stand Out to Casting Directors
Whether you are newly registered or have been working as a Background Actor for years, you’re likely looking for ways to stand out to Casting Directors. Here are some tips for what you can do to show Casting Directors you’re prepared, professional, and ready to get on set.
Update your online profile
One of the best ways to show you’re a professional Background Actor is to keep your Central Casting online profile up-to-date with your correct appearance information, sizes, and photos of your current look. You should fill out your profile completely with as much accurate information as possible, like playing age, skills, wardrobe, and vehicles you own. Casting Directors use this information when searching our casting platform; the more information you fill out, the more chance you have of showing up in searches for roles you fit.
In addition to current photos, you should also upload additional photos of different looks you can portray, wearing unique wardrobe you own, and of your vehicles. When adding photos, remember quality is key. Pictures should be well-lit, in focus, only include you, and be taken against a white or solid background.
Read the entire post or message
When booking their shows, Casting Directors will often send you an availability inquiry or post to our Jobs page. Be sure to read these messages and posts fully and carefully before responding. Part of your job as a Background Actor is to follow directions. Submitting as instructed goes a long way to letting Casting Directors know they can trust you to pay attention and follow instructions on set.
Show up prepared and on time
It is imperative that you show up to work on time. We know traffic, subway delays, and other complications can arise on your way to set, but it’s still your responsibility to arrive on time. Call times can and will often change, be sure to check for any changes before arriving to set.
Some productions may have protocols that limit the interaction between crew members, which means you may not work with the hair, makeup, and wardrobe departments as much as you may have in the past. Be sure to read your details carefully so you show up to set as expected with the correct hair, makeup, and wardrobe for your role.
Pay attention on set
During filming, Background Actors are usually directed by Assistant Directors. Follow the instructions given and remember your movements so you can replicate them for multiple takes. Being alert not only helps you stand out to Casting Directors, but lets Assistant Directors know you’re serious about your work.
Beyond following the AD’s direction and doing your job as a Background Actor, being on set is one of the best ways to learn about the entertainment industry. Use the time when you’re not working to watch how the production operates and talk to your fellow Background Actors in Holding about their experiences on set.
Show you’re invested
Virtual Visiting gives you the chance to meet, learn from, and ask questions to our Casting Directors live on Zoom. These sessions are a great way to introduce yourself to our casting team and get valuable advice on working as a Background Actor with Central Casting. Keep an eye on our your messages for information about upcoming Virtual Visiting sessions in your location.
Our articles are another great tool to find out about the industry and stay up to date with what’s happening at Central Casting. We provide valuable information on our casting platform, how to book a job, and many other resources for how to be a successful Background Actor.
