How to Get Back Into Background Acting After a Hiatus
Did you take a break from background work, but are interested in getting back on set? If you previously signed up with Central Casting and are wondering how to jump back in, here are some tips on how to update your profile and find work.
Completely fill out or update your online profile
If this is your first time accessing your online profile or if it's been a while since you worked with Central Casting, it's likely details in your profile are missing or out of date. Since our Casting Directors use the data in your profile when searching our casting platform and determining the types of roles you can portray, it's vital that the information is accurate and reflects your current look.
Adding your correct sizes is especially important as our Casting Directors use these in a variety of ways, like when booking doubles or when production provides wardrobe. Filling out other fields, like special skills, props, wardrobe, and vehicles you own also helps Casting Directors find you when booking their roles. Just keep in mind, when you're booked based on the information in your profile, you will be expected to show up to set with that look, with that prop, or be able to convincingly portray that special skill.
Upload current photos
Current photos are another crucial part of the casting process. If you've taken a break from background work, the main photo in your profile may not reflect your current look, so we recommend reviewing the photos in your online profile. While you cannot update or delete the photos you took during Talent Onboarding, we recommend uploading a current photo to the Artist's Choice slot and any additional photos that reflect your current look to your profile. These are the photos Casting Directors use when booking their roles.
While photos you upload do not need to be taken professionally, they need to fit within Central Casting's photo guidelines, which include photos that are well lit, in focus, only feature you, and are taken against a white or solid light background. Our Casting Directors need to know that you will show up to set with the same look as in your profile photos, so professional headshots, photos that are altered/edited, and photos that are dark or low quality cannot be used when considering you for background work.
Learn about our messaging process
There are two main ways to find work with Central Casting: by responding to casting messages and by submitting for work on the Jobs page.
If a Casting Director thinks you fit the description for a role, they may reach out with an availability inquiry. Availability inquiries are not offers or guarantees of work, Central Casting is simply asking if you are available without time restrictions and interested in working that day. Without time restrictions means that there are no conflicts during the day that would prevent you from working. This is important because Casting Directors usually do not have call times until later in the evening before the work date (unless the call is for a late night or overnight shoot, then that information will be included in the message).
Check out our messaging guide to learn more about the booking process and responding to messages from Central Casting.
Bookmark the Jobs page
You can proactively look for work by responding to posts on our Jobs page. In these job posts, Casting Directors will include information and requirements for the role, like portrayable age, portrayable ethnicity, if you're a member of SAG-AFTRA, and submission instructions. Please read the entire post fully and only respond if you fit the description for the role. After reviewing your submission, the Casting Director may send an availability inquiry.
Want more advice on how to get back on set with Central Casting? Check out our articles 5 Tips for Getting Booked and A Refresher on Finding Work With Central Casting.
