(Frequently Asked Questions)
1 Will I get work?
NewMexicoActors.com does NOT guarantee any work or position. No
promises are being made by joining NewMexicoactors.com other than
the person will get the most exposure possible through the
Internet.
2 What kind of exposure will I get?
Visitors to the site run the entire spectrum. From the merely
curious to the professional. We have been contacted by actors,
producers, and people from across the country as well as
international visitors.
3 Will I be picked?
The possibliity of being chosen for a role or as a extra remains
the same for everyone. It all depends on what the casting agent or
director wants. To be truthful about it, casting may not really
know what they want until they see the individual in person.
4 Will I be a star?
This question falls into one of three modes of thought. The first
being that you're LUCKY enough to be 'discovered'. The second being
that you have to know the 'RIGHT' people. The third is that you
merely are in the right spot at the right time. newmexicoactors.com
believe the 3rd option to be the most truthful.
5 Is the pay good?
As in any entry level position, in a word, NO. Most people who do
extra work don't get paid very well. However, as in most jobs, the
more experience means more opportunities to obtain better pay. But
if you are SAG or an experienced actor, you may expect better than
normal pay. The average shows pays $50 per 8 hour day plus time and
a half after 8 hours minus a half hour for lunch.
6 Why would I want to be JUST an extra?
Extras, background artists, atmosphere or whatever label you care
to use are a very important part of any film. 99% of films use
extras. Without the extras there would be NO film and in many cases
the actor(s) utilize the extras as well. They react off the extras,
actors use extras as reference, at times they even interact with
the extras. So don't think being an extra is a menial job. It's
actually quite important. Extra work is terrific for learning the
mechanics of film making and it allows you to observe the
professional actor work their craft. Being a good extra is equally
important. Professional extras can do quite well financially. Most
people who work as extras do it because they simply love film and
they want to be a part of it. The exposure on the big screen or
television is a definite plus too.
7 What if I'm not good enough?
Every actor has started out from nowhere, maybe some training, a
bit part in a commercial, working as an extra. The most important
part is motivation and drive to do the job the best way you can. A
love for the business also helps.
8 Will I get to meet any big name movie stars?
Maybe. The chances are very good you'll be working in the proximity
with a star. How famous the star might be is another question
altogether. Some people never heard of Billy Bob Thornton, yet he
is a famous actor, a great director and a fine gentleman. Get it?
9 What do I need to become an extra or just to get into the business?
First, you have to have the drive and motivation to appear at an
audition and demostrate you are ready to work. Go to auditions.
Study previous films, attend plays for reference and study. There's
a lot of work involved in this business. Extra work, for example,
look at previous films and notice what the guys in the background
or even the foreground are doing when the camera goes past them.
DON'T lie on your resume if you bring it to an audition. You might
get caught in the lie. You have to build a reputation for being
dependable and professional in your work. If you're serious about
being an actor, then we suggest taking some courses, buying some
books, going to every audition you can, make it your priority. Be
persistant. Being good requires takes time and practice.
