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If you like the movie set but you are having trouble landing a starring role in the next big upcoming film, than being a background actor/actress may just be what you are looking for.

Whether you are a parent seeking work for your child of five years old or whether you are in your sixties and looking for extra work, the opportunities are limitless.

Here is how you get started.

First, look for a casting agency. You can look up agencies online through major search engines, or if you have a local bookstore catering towards the arts, it is often they will have a book full of legitimate casting agencies. Check them out. Try not to feel overwhelmed with how many agencies there are. Once you start researching for the right agency, you will notice that different agencies specialize in different things. That is; modeling, principle acting roles, commercial roles, etc. Narrow it down and find one that caters towards background or "extra" work. There are even some agencies that are age specific so be sure to pick one that is right for you.

You can choose to visit a few before making a decision, but make sure you call ahead to set an appointment.

Meeting with an agent is almost like going through the interview process for a new job, except you are conducting the interview. You want to choose who would best represent you, and who you think could find you the most work. Jot down these questions and bring them with you.

a) Ask to take a look at the agencies portfolio (all legitimate agencies have one) to see what type of work they have done in the past.

b) Discuss what the rate of commission your agent will be getting. This usually ranges between 10-15% of your pay.

c) Ask if they are able to provide you with a photographer for your head-shots and if you could see their in-house photographer's work, or if you prefer, ask if you could seek your own photographer to take head-shots for you. Keep in mind, this is always your decision, not the agencies. Take note that head-shots will cost upwards of $200. Be prepared, but do not be pushed into a commitment upon your first interview with the agency! Take as long as you want to make the right decision for you and never sign anything until you are sure.

After finding the right agency, your agent will begin to work for you. Remember, if you don't get work, the agent doesn't get paid.

Some extra work do not require auditions. If a casting director is looking for a large group of people, they will simply call the agency, let them know what they are looking for and if you fit the description then your agent will send you to the job. It's that simple.

Auditions are usually required only when a casting directing is looking for a handful of people for specific roles. In this case, your agent will tell you when and where the audition is and what the casting director is looking for inorder to help prepare you for a successful audition.

Rates of pay vary from city to city and the hours of work vary from one production to another. Your agent will be able to tell you exactly how much you will be paid before you agree to work. This can be either an hourly rate or one set amount for the entire day no matter how long the day is. Either way, you can wait for something better, or you can take what you can to get some experience under your belt. The decision is always yours.

Good luck!

Learn more about this author, Tina Sin.
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