In Germany there are a number of companies that care about extras in movies and also TV-productions. Most of the time, these corporations call themselves extras casting agencies or agencies.
These corporations are classified as the intermediaries between the extras and the movie and television production companies. There are even some TV channels that occupy their own extras (for example the Hessische Rundfunk in Frankfurt).
At all companies you must register yourself to end up as an extra. Frequently the rules for registration are the exact same, but in order to do absolutely nothing wrong, it is worth looking at the website of the agency or make a quick telephone call there.
Mostly two photos are needed by the extras (full body and a portrait photograph). Also you need to fill out a sheet about yourself. Main rule here: If possible, use up to date and professional images (eg through photographers). So don’t use a blurred photo of your last holiday.
You get the questionnaire sheet from the agency or you can get it on the website. It identifies the main data about you: name, address, your telephone number occupation, etc. Also you must enter specific details about yourself here, which are significant for future job extras: eg Body measurements (for costumes that will fit later), driver’s licenses, languages you speak, special skills that you can (eg dancing).
This is also important for the future selection of extras, so that on the set every single extra fits perfectly in his or her role. Specific questions are also in the document: eg if you can imagine, to be naked before the camera. If no, this is not a problem.
If you’ve already worked as an actor, you may also specify this in the document. But tick this only if you truly have something to offer as an actor. Let it be, if you’re shy or stutters constantly.
When you have your documents sent to the agency, you have to wait. Once the agency has a requirement for you, they will get in touch with you. And please don’t annoy the agency with phone calls, basically because they didn’t call you in the following days. If you’re blessed, an agency calls you in the next few days and you will play your first extra role in your life right before a camera.
Act as an extra in a movie or a TV Show. No Problem. Check out the webpage Komparse werden.