Tips for Background Performers on Set

1. ALWAYS SHOW UP AT LEAST 15 MINUTES PRIOR TO YOUR CALL TIME - IF YOU COMMIT TO A SHOOT - YOU MUST SHOW UP OR YOU WILL NOT BE CONSIDERED FOR THE NEXT ONE.

2. NEVER LOOK DIRECTLY INTO THE CAMERA LENS!

3. SILENCE! Please keep quiet; it’s easier and nicer to work when no one has to scream. If you’re asked to talk while doing your action remember you must fake it. We shouldn’t hear any sounds unless specified by an AD that they do need sound for a shot.

4. When you come in or leave ALWAYS check in/out with the 3rd assistant-director (AD) or the person responsible for background performers. It’s the only way for them to know where you are and to pay you for your hours.

5. Once on set, always listen carefully to the instructions given to you. There might be a few rehearsals first. Remember your action and position as well as those around you. You’ll have to repeat that action many times exactly the same way. Be aware of what’s going on around you, especially in relation with the actors and their dialogue.

6. Start your action on “ACTION” or “BACKGROUND ACTION” and stop on “CUT”. Then get ready to go back to your “FIRST POSITION” and do the same action once again.

7. When shooting you’ll hear “ROLL CAMERA”. This cue is for crew only.

8. Sometimes you might be asked to “FREEZE”, just stay in place until given further instructions.

9. Always try to act as natural as you can. It must look like real life.

10. If you are given props; take care of them and remember to give them back to the props person before leaving the set.

11. Avoid talking to the director and actors they need their concentration.

12. Be alert and set-wise. There are a lot of people working on set try not to be in their way.

13. At the end of the day, return your wardrobe, props etc… to those who gave them to you, and make sure to sign your time sheet.

14. Have Fun!