Industry jargon not your thing? Our glossary will enlighten you!
Non-professional actors or amateur actors are actors who have not completed any acting training. They do not work full-time as actors and are usually booked for cost reasons or because they are not (yet) recognizable.
Amateur actors are an indispensable part of television reality. They are used more often in the film, TV and theater industry than it might seem at first glance. They are popular for two main reasons: Low pay and obscurity.
Low pay: Compared to trained actors, amateur actors receive significantly lower pay. This is a good way for the production team to save costs.
Unfamiliarity: Especially for certain formats (reality, scripted reality, court shows, milieu studies, etc.), it is an advantage when unknown amateur actors are in front of the camera. On the one hand, there is no recognition value or emotional connection, as would be the case with established actors. On the other hand, amateur actors appear more authentic in these reality formats due to their inexperience and lack of experience.
It is best to send your application as an amateur actor to an appropriate agency. This agency has the necessary connections in the film and theater industry. You do not need to have any acting experience or training. However, there are always roles in which at least some experience as an amateur actor is required. Amateur actors therefore have a certain advantage here and better chances of getting roles.
To increase your chances of getting a role, include as many of your personal characteristics as possible in your application. These include your height, eye color, any talents or previous acting experience.
If you are considered for a certain role, you will be invited to an audition where you can convince those responsible.
The demand for amateur actors is one that never dries up. That is why this position plays a prominent role at Jobwork.
Amateur actors actually receive a fee for their services, so they do not have to work unpaid. How high this fee is depends on the type of work for which they are engaged. The fee for extras is lower because they are always in the background and remain passive. Small actors, on the other hand, take on smaller roles and are active in front of the camera. Their pay is correspondingly higher.
The production company or casting agency determines the amount of pay before filming begins. This means that all the important details have already been clarified before filming begins.
It doesn't happen often, but sometimes the path to fame really does lead via a small supporting role. If the producer is enthusiastic about the camera presence, things can happen very quickly and extras jobs can turn into smaller supporting roles - which in turn lead to bigger jobs.