Being a background artiste really isn't something that everyone will enjoy. It's not especially glamourous, can be boring, hard work and testing of your patience and endurance. It's a big commitment, as once booked, many hundreds of people may be depending on you to arrive promptly and discharge your duties accurately. Failing in either of these obligations can be hugely expensive for the film company, as shooting time costs a lot of money, and for us, as our reputation is almost entirely dependant on your behaviour on set.

You need to make sure that you are genuinely available to work for us too - not just weekends. There is nothing more frustrating for us and for you than finding that you have not worked at the end of the year's registration, solely because you've had to turn down all the work we've offered you.?

If you are not put off, then get in touch.? We are always looking for available, dependable, reliable and punctual people (of any age) who don't mind getting up at the crack of dawn and making their way to a field, or a studio, a pub or a tent, or even a castle ready to start a day's work on a film set. Being a background artiste can be fun, as you will be on film sets, watching the next great movie, soap or sit-com happening around you. You'll soon find plenty of friends, and an active social scene on the background buses and holding areas.?

TV and Feature FIlm Work is?paid?at Union approved rates - check out the rates section for more details.???Pay for other work can vary. The days can be very long, so overtime is not uncommon. There are also a range of additional payments that can be made if you do more than just standing in the background. We deduct a commission from your wages - currently 13% or 15% depending on the type of registration you have with us, and will pay you by cheque or BACS as soon as we are paid by the production company, which?takes 6-8 weeks.

If you would like more advice on becoming a film extra, refer to www.hiddenextra.com, which offers?good?advice without demanding money.

Please be aware that ours is a sector regrettably rife with those who would seek to rip off young, vulnerable and ambitious would-be actors and extras.? Be very careful, and only ever join agents which are members of NASAA, the National Association of Supporting Artistes Agents.?

Most importantly, never pay anyone money before they have given you work.