At Casting Ireland, we have the utmost pleasure of working with Talent of all experience levels. Whether you’re a seasoned extra or brand new to the game, we’re careful to ensure every cast member is fully briefed on location, call times, wardrobe, and other important details before arriving on set. That way, everyone has space to focus on the fun aspects of being part of a production.
Stepping on set for the first time can feel overwhelming! This blog post is designed to help you feel confident and prepared so you can make the most of your experience. Working as an extra is a fantastic way to begin your on-screen journey. It’s a low-pressure environment where you can get comfortable on set, learn the ropes, and get used to taking direction. Once you’re booked for a job, preparation is key to doing a good job and making a lasting impression.
1. Consider every scenario and prepare yourself
The first step is to check your emails carefully. Read through all communications from us regarding the production to make sure you haven’t missed any important details. If you’re unsure about wardrobe, call times, or
location, reach out to our casting team as early as possible at info@castingireland.ie. We’re here to help, and it’s always better to ask questions in advance than to stress the night before!
Creating a personal checklist can also be useful. Note down anything you need to bring along, including costume items or materials you’ve been asked to review. Below is a sample checklist that may assist you:
- Wardrobe items – Bring any clothing or accessories you’ve been asked to provide. It’s a good idea to pack a few extra options, too, just in case.
- Script/shoot material – If you have any script/shoot material, it is important that you bring a copy on the day to go over whilst you are waiting to go on set.
- Comfortable shoes – If you are required to wear heels or uncomfortable footwear on set, it may be helpful to bring comfortable footwear to change into between takes.
- Water bottle and snacks – While meals may be provided, there can be long stretches between breaks. Having your own water and snacks helps keep your energy up between meals.
- Phone charger/power bank – Shoot dates can be long and you might need your phone for communication/navigation once the shoot is over.
- Entertainment – A book is always a great option to bring to set as it is noiseless and is a lovely alternative to your being on your phone. If you plan on using a phone in the holding area, bring headphones to avoid causing distraction for others.
2. Take a second look at your costume
Wardrobe requirements will usually be communicated before the shoot. Sometimes, production will provide your outfit. Other times, you’ll be asked to bring your own clothes. These instructions can vary from specific (e.g., “black trousers and a white T-shirt”) to more general (e.g., “day wear,” “formal,” or “dressy-casual”). Try your best to match the request and, if possible, bring a few options. If in doubt, don’t hesitate to ask for further clarity.
A few general wardrobe tips:
- Avoid bold patterns, neon colours, and logos or branded clothing—unless explicitly requested.
- Stick to neutral tones and simple designs.
- For makeup, less is more. Unless instructed otherwise, arrive with little to no makeup so the makeup team can style you as needed for the role.
- Come to set with freshly washed and dry hair, please!
3. Familiarise yourself with some basic lingo
Film sets have their own language. Hearing unfamiliar terms for the first time can be intimidating. Here’s a quick guide to some common phrases you might hear on set to help you respond appropriately:
- Back to one – Return to your original starting position. Used between takes when resetting everything in a scene.
- Holding – The designated waiting area for performers between scenes.
- Quiet on set – Everyone must stop talking and minimize noise. Filming is about to begin.
- Rolling – Cameras are filming; stay silent/in character.
- Action! – The director’s cue to begin the scene.
- Cut! – This is your que that filming has stopped.
- Standby – Get ready, your scene is coming up shortly.
- Wrap – Filming is finished for the day.
- Close-Up – A shot that tightly frames a person or object.
- Long Shot – A shot from a distance, showing a broad view of a scene.
- Tracking Shot – A shot where the camera follows alongside the subject
4. Put your best foot forward
To make a strong first impression, aim to arrive 10–15 minutes early. This gives you time to check in and get settled. Once on site, connect with your designated on-set contact (or give them a call if you’re unsure where to go). You’ll typically be brought to hair and makeup before heading to set. While waiting to go on set, keep your phone turned off to avoid disruptions. Remember to:
- Be attentive and respectful.
- Remain open to direction from the director and crew.
- If you’re confused about something, don’t hesitate to ask—but only when the cameras aren’t rolling!
- Don’t worry if you make a mistake. It’s all part of the learning process.
5. Keep in touch with us
After your shoot, a member of our Casting Team will follow up to see how everything went. We’ll also ask for your bank details so we can add you to our payroll system and arrange your payment. We will provide any feedback the client has offered to help guide your growth.
Depending on the production’s schedule, you might see yourself featured in an ad, campaign, or even a feature film within a few weeks! Be proud of your work and enjoy the experience. It’s a unique opportunity, and every moment on set helps you grow.
Make sure to check your email regularly—your first opportunity could happen at any moment, and we don’t want you to miss it!
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If you’re in need of Actors, Models, Extras, or Performers for your next Creative or Commercial Project, get in touch. Simply email info@castingireland.ie or call us on (01) 634 3112.
