For those looking to enter the entertainment industry, behind-the-scenes jobs can offer unique entry points. One such role is that of a stand-in, a position that places individuals at the center of the filmmaking process. This job provides a distinct perspective on how a set operates and involves interacting closely with the technical crews that bring a story to life.
What Is a Stand-In Actor?
A stand-in takes the place of a principal actor for technical purposes before filming begins, primarily to help the crew with lighting and camera setups. This allows the main actors to conserve energy or attend to other duties while the technical aspects of a shot are finalized. A stand-in’s work is almost entirely off-camera, serving as a placeholder for the performer who will be filmed.
A stand-in is different from a body double or a background extra. A body double is used on camera, substituting for an actor in specific shots, such as those requiring special skills. Background extras are performers who appear in the background of a scene to create realism but have no lines.
A stand-in does not need to be an exact look-alike but must share similar physical characteristics with the actor, including height, build, hair color, and skin tone. These similarities ensure the lighting set for the stand-in will correctly illuminate the actor during filming. For instance, if a stand-in is much shorter than the actor, the lighting could leave the actor’s face in shadow.
Key Responsibilities on Set
A stand-in’s primary responsibility is to take the actor’s position on set, helping the lighting department and camera crew establish the technical parameters of a shot. This allows the director of photography to arrange lights and the camera operator to set focus, framing, and composition. This process happens without needing the principal actor present, which improves the set’s efficiency.
A stand-in is also involved in “blocking,” which is mapping out an actor’s movements. During rehearsal, the stand-in observes the principal actor to learn their specific actions, like where they walk, sit, or handle props. The stand-in then replicates these movements for the crew while the actor is away for final preparations.
This process includes hitting specific marks on the floor so the camera assistant can maintain focus as the scene unfolds. On multi-camera productions, stand-ins may also run through dialogue. This helps establish the timing for camera movements and cuts.
Essential Skills and Attributes
Professionalism is a required attribute for a stand-in. While being on a film set is exciting, a stand-in must maintain a focused demeanor. This includes understanding professional boundaries and giving principal actors their space.
Punctuality is non-negotiable, as production schedules are tight. A stand-in must be on time and ready to work when called. The ability to follow directions with precision is also needed, as instructions from the director or assistant director can be complex and change quickly.
In addition to matching the principal actor’s physical attributes, a stand-in must have considerable stamina. The job requires long hours of standing, often in one spot, and remaining attentive during lengthy technical setups. This physical endurance is a practical requirement of the role.
Finding Stand-In Work
The primary avenue for stand-in jobs is through extras casting agencies, which supply productions with background actors and stand-ins. When registering with an agency, state your specific interest in stand-in work. Building a reputation for reliability as a background actor can also lead to stand-in opportunities.
You will need a professional headshot that shows your current look and a resume listing any on-set experience. Your resume must also include precise physical measurements, including height, weight, and all standard clothing sizes. Casting directors use this information to find a suitable match for a principal actor.
Online casting websites and union resources are other valuable channels for finding work. Websites that list casting calls often have postings for stand-in roles. For members, SAG-AFTRA provides resources and access to union-only productions. A stand-in is sometimes hired directly from the background actors on set, so being prepared as an extra can lead to an upgrade.
On-Set Etiquette and Best Practices
A stand-in should always be attentive and ready to step in when the “second team” is called. It is good practice to stay near the set during downtime and avoid distractions like a personal phone. Wandering off or making the crew search for you is a quick way to not be hired again.
Knowing who to communicate with is part of on-set professionalism. The assistant directors (ADs) are the primary points of contact for a stand-in. While it is helpful to learn the names of key crew members, general conversation with the principal actor should be kept to a minimum unless they initiate it. It is part of the job to relay information about blocking to the actor, but otherwise, treat them as a coworker.
The job requires careful observation and note-taking. Stand-ins are often given “sides,” which are small printed versions of the scenes being shot. Taking detailed notes on the actor’s movements, timing, and prop interactions is a standard practice that helps ensure accuracy.