How To Become A Movie Or TV Extra In New Orleans

Photo credit: CBS

You don’t have to be a lead actor to make it big in the film world. A supporting role, or even one as an extra can be a huge deal in New Orleans and elsewhere.

In this article, we’ll show you how to get hired as an extra on a TV show or movie in New Orleans.

How To Become A Movie And TV Extra In New Orleans

If you want to work as an extra in movies and TV, you need to find out what’s filming. New Orleans and Louisiana as a whole has become a hub for movie and TV shows. Being an extra is quite different from being an actor. An actor is a trained professional, while an extra is a contract worker hired on the spot. Here’s how to become an actor.

How Much Do Movie Extras Get Paid?

The amount that movie extras get paid largely depend on the project. Most film companies pay an hourly rate to film between eight and 12 hours a day. The typical pay for an extra in 2023 is around $60 for eight hours of work, but it could be as high as $100 or $200, depending on what they ask you to do. (Sometimes, meals are included).

1. Network In The Film Community

You need to be able to find movies and TV shows that are filming throughout the city. One of the best resources for that is to begin networking in the local film community. You should sign up for things like workshops and look in on informational panels having to do with films.

New Orleans has a number of organizations that nurture talent in front and behind the camera, including extras. why not try to attend a yearly film festival this year? New Orleans has several good ones you can use to learn more about the industry. They include:

2. Attend Casting Calls In New Orleans

You can also attend “open” casting calls, which are those that don’t necessarily have specific needs. Some movies and TV shows just need large amounts of people or a group of people to make a scene look busy.

One example is the Will Smith movie “Emancipation,” which began filming in New Orleans after leaving Georgia its controversial new voting laws.

3. Don’t Get Scammed

Unfortunately, when it comes to entertainment, there are always some literally bad actors that try to take advantage of people looking to be on the big and small screen.

Casting calls are rife with scammers looking to exploit inexperienced people. Don’t fall for it. Here are some casting call scams you need to avoid:

Casting Calls Asking For Payment

No legit casting call company will ask you to pay them to be in a movie or TV show. The way it works is that they pay you. It’s a scam.

Vague ‘Modeling’ Jobs

If a casting call or audition reveals very little information other than it’s “looking for an adult for modeling gig” or something like that, it’s super suspicious and shouldn’t be trusted.

Real modeling jobs will state the employer, address and location of the casting call and relevant details such as the time and pay. Always research modeling jobs before you submit your information or go to them.

Final Word

If you want to appear on the big or small screen, one way to do it in New Orleans is to be an extra in a movie or TV show.

If you’ve ever wanted to be cast in a big-budget movie and TV show in New Orleans, you’ve got a legitimate shot. And that’s a good thing.

Becoming an extra is a great way to get a taste of what it’s like being on set and participating in a movie.

New Orleans is a major hub for movie and TV production. If you find a casting call or audition that you’re interested in applying for, make sure you prepare ahead of time. That means:Read the casting call carefully to make sure you’re eligible

Dress the part, if it requires you to do so.
Pay special attention to any grooming requirements.
Keep a positive attitude. It will go a long way.

Here are some movies filming in New Orleans right now.

Stay with NolaFi for the latest in Louisiana casting calls and audtions. More From NolaFi.com:

Keisha Smith

Keisha Smith is a Contributing Writer who attended college at Southern University A&M College in Baton Rouge. She is currently writing a book on south Louisiana culture.