Perhaps one of the largest, and most costly, mistake a female film extra can do is not brining appropriate clothing to set. While some extras, such as featured extras, will have wardrobe provided for her, 99 percent of the time you must provide your own clothing. Although there are variables for every film, there are certain rules a female extra must adhere to when it comes to selecting her clothing for the day. Throughout my professional experience working not only as an extra, but also a casting director, I have compiled several must-do tips for all female extras.
Tip #1 – Bring Options
One of the most important rules to remember as a female extra is to bring options. Many times, an extra is called for a full-day of shooting, and while it is possible to only shoot one scene, most films film at least three scenes throughout the day and each of these scenes may be for a different period of time within the film. Thus, as a female extra you must always bring several different outfits to change into.
I vividly remember an encounter on a major motion picture where one female extra only brought one extra outfit, and the filming for that day covered four different days within the film. Because she only had two outfits (the one she was wearing, and the extra one) she was asked to go home as the director didn’t want to risk her standing out as wearing the same outfit when the film depicts different days and scenarios.
To be safe, bring enough clothing options that can be used for a minimum of five different outfits. Typically, a couple of pants will do; however, bring at least 10 different tops so the wardrobe department has ample options to choose from.
Tip #2 – Avoid Heavily Patterned Clothing
This is one of the biggest mistakes I’ve seen happen – a female extra brings a plethora of clothing; however, almost every shirt featured a heavy, or busy, pattern. On film, these types of patterns can come across as strange. Ask any extras casting director and he will say solid color, or small pattern designs, are ideal and typically required for all extras.
Tip #3 – Accessories
Ah, accessories. Many female extras get so carried away when preparing for the film shoot they decide to bring their entire accessory drawer. While accessories are vital to provide natural ambiance within the extras, it is important to not get carried away. When selecting accessories, choose ones that are understated; however, you may be instructed to bring more elaborate accessories with you by the casting director. To be safe, you can bring larger pieces of jewelry, but do not wear them unless the wardrobe department selects them from your options.
Tip #4 – Shoes
Did you know that the average film day consists of at least 12 hours of shooting? Sometimes those 12 hours can seep into 15 or more. Thus, it is vital to select shoes that are comfortable. If you are required to wear high heels, bring a pair of flats to wear in-between takes. Avoid wearing any open toe shoes, as this is a safety hazard on film sets due to large equipment that decorates the set. Of course, ask the casting director upon booking a job what type of shoes would be ideal – if this information isn’t voluntarily given to you.