Virtual Visiting Round Up: Fall 2024
During Central Casting's Virtual Visiting sessions, a panel of Casting Directors answer questions, give insight into the casting process, and offer tips to be successful on set. Reservations for Virtual Visiting are limited, so we wanted to share some of the most asked questions during our fall sessions to help you succeed as a Background Actor.
I have a lot of photos in my profile, how do I know which ones Casting Directors look at?
Just like the information in your profile, the photos you upload are a tool Casting Directors use when booking their shows. You should always have a current headshot and full body shot, which is one of the main ways Casting Directors determine the types of roles you can portray. And don't worry if your photos from Talent Onboarding no longer reflect your current look. Our Casting Staff look at your self-uploaded current looks in the Artist Choice Main (headshot) and Artist Choice Body (full body) slots to verify how you look now. You can learn more about updating your current look photos in our Photo Update guide.
Depending on the role, Casting Directors may then look at the additional photos you've uploaded. Keep in mind, quality over quantity is key. While it may be tempting to upload photos of all your looks, that only clutters your profile and makes it harder for our Casting Staff to find the photo they need. In addition to a current headshot and full body shot, Casting Directors recommend a casual, business, and formal look, then 1-2 photos of unique looks you can portray. You don't need to upload multiple photos in the same look, our staff will ask you to submit a photo in specific wardrobe if needed.
Other photos you should consider are if you have a vehicle or pet you are willing to work with on set. For pet and vehicle photos, you don't need to add multiple pictures of each, just a single photo that clearly shows your car or pet is sufficient to allow Casting Directors to determine if they fit the role.
I want to work as a Stand-In or be upgraded on set. How can I show the crew I'm professional?
One of the best ways to show you're a professional Background Actor is to arrive to set on time and ready to work. This includes showing up to set as instructed in your details, either camera ready with your wardrobe on, hair styled, and makeup applied or with any clothing you were instructed to bring with you. If you are bringing wardrobe to set, please ensure it arrives clean, unwrinkled (unless otherwise indicated in your details), and hung in a garment bag.
Part of showing up on time is being aware of your call time changes. Film and TV production schedules are constantly evolving, it's common for call times to change after you receive your booking information. Your details will include instructions on how to get your call time changes; it's your responsibility to show up to set on time.
Another great way to stand out to Assistant Directors is to follow all crew instruction and pay attention not only to the directions given to you, but to the action of other background and principal actors. Unless you're given new direction, you will need to recreate your movements take after take. By being aware of the action around you, you can ensure your movements are consistent throughout the scene.
While it doesn't happen every day, there can be times when Background Actors are upgraded to Stand-Ins on set. By being engaged and present, you can show ADs you are professional and take your work seriously. Just remember, upgrades are done based on the needs of the production, you should never ask to be upgraded or given a line on set.
Wrapping up 2024
We want to thank our Background Actors who attended Virtual Visiting this year and all those who have stayed updated with our 2024 winter, spring, and summer recaps. Don't forget to check out the many useful guides in our Articles to learn everything you need to know about working with Central Casting.
