Frequently Asked Questions
WHAT IS AN EXTRA / BACKGROUND ACTOR?
Background actors or extras are the people hired to make the atmosphere in a scene seem more realistic. Background actors are essential to any production. They are the crowd at a ballgame, diners in a restaurant, workers in an office, party goers, wedding guests, shoppers in a store, etc...
WHAT IS A "FEATURED" EXTRA?
A "featured" extra is a background actor that has a specific role. Featured extra roles are still non-speaking, but they get a little more screen time and are more likely to be recognized in the final scene.
WHAT IS A STAND-IN?
A stand-in is a member of the TV/film production crew who takes the place of a principal actor for lighting setups and camera blocking. Stand-ins often match the principal actor in height, body type, hair color, and complexion. TV/film stand-ins are called “second team”. Everything a stand-in does is off-screen.
WHAT IS A PHOTO DOUBLE?
A photo double or body double is an actor who substitutes a leading performer in scenes not involving the face. For example, in distance shots, or a close-up of a portion of the body, or for an over the shoulder shot. The "double" usually has a similar appearance to the leading performer.
IS EXTRA WORK PAID?
Yes. SAG-AFTRA set rates for their members. NON-UNION rates vary from project to project. For example if we list $150/8, it means that you will be paid $150 for an 8-hour day (lunch break not included). If you work less than 8 hours, you will be still paid for the full 8 hours. After 8 hours you will be paid overtime (time and a half from 8- 10 hrs, and double time after 10 hrs).
Same if we list $200/10 - it means you will be paid $200 for a 10 hours day (lunch break not included) plus overtime if/when applicable.
HOW DO I GET PAID?
Payroll is handled through the production company. We, as the casting company do not handle payroll. The payroll company is your employer. When you are on set, you will fill out a voucher (or a digital voucher), a W4 and I9 with a payroll company.
Please note that just like any other job you must present ID to prove you are legally permitted to work in the United States. For a complete list and more information, click here. Your ID must be CURRENT and unexpired. Always keep a copy of your voucher so that if you have questions about your paycheck, you can contact the payroll department directly. We do not have copies or access to your voucher information.
HOW LONG DOES IT TAKE TO GET PAID?
Payment typically takes about 2-4 weeks. If you have not been paid yet, or have any questions regarding payment, contact the payroll company directly.
CAN I BRING FRIENDS AND/OR FAMILY TO SET?
NO! This is a job. Don't bring anyone along with you unless they are also confirmed to work as an extra that day.
WHAT SHOULD I BRING TO SET?
Bring all items requested in your information email including wardrobe. Typically you will need to bring several changes of clothes for the wardrobe department to choose from. Bring your ID, snacks, necessary medications, sunscreen (in case you are filming outdoor) and on colder days, bring an extra jacket for when you are not on set. There is almost always food on set but you never know how often you will be able to eat so it’s always a good idea to have a snack handy just in case, especially if you have any dietary restrictions. DO NOT bring any valuables. Production is not responsible for misplaced, stolen, or left behind property.
WHY DIDN'T I GET BOOKED?
It is not personal. It is a very tough and competitive business. We get hundreds of submissions for every job. Sometimes we only have 10 spots to fill - sometimes 50 or 500...
DO YOU REPRESENT ACTORS?
No, Vivienne Chang Casting is a casting company and we do not represent actors.
DO EXTRAS GET SPEAKING ROLES?
It’s possible that a Background Actor can be given a line and upgraded to principal while on set. This is done based on the discretion and needs of the production.
DO YOU ALSO CAST SPEAKING ROLES?
Yes. Vivienne Chang Casting is a full service casting agency and specializes in casting SAG/AFTRA and Non Union talent for both principal and background talent.
How will I be notified of a job opportunity?
We post most of our background casting notices on our Facebook page - and you can submit following the direction on the post. We also have a very extensive database and we might also contact you directly if we think you fit the project.
How do I register with Vivienne Chang Casting?
When you submit for a role we add you to our database.
What is a Taft-Hartley?
How do I join SAG?
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