Working as an extra (background performer) is a fantastic way to build on-set experience – and a little professionalism goes a long way. To help every RubyBlue artist shine, here’s our guide to how production work runs and what’s expected of you on set. Get these right and you’ll be the kind of reliable, easy-to-work-with talent that productions ask for again and again.

Confidentiality comes first

Anything we send you about extra or production work is strictly confidential. Don’t share it with anyone, and never post yourself in costume or on location – not before, during or after, until the production is officially released. Breaching confidentiality can get you removed from a role, so when in doubt, keep it to yourself.

Holds, call times & flexibility

When you’re booked, you’re on hold until you receive a call time or call sheet – dates can move around, so flexibility is essential. Call times usually come through the day before, around 5pm. We’ll email and text you the moment we have it; if you haven’t heard by 5pm, feel free to check in. Sometimes you’ll get a draft call time first, with the final time texted later that evening once production updates their schedule. The final time you’re given is the time you go – and please don’t arrive too early to set.

If you can’t make it

We’re a smaller agency, and replacing you isn’t easy – we have to match your age, ethnicity and height. If you’re unwell or can’t attend, let us know as early as possible, ideally at least 24 hours before, so we can arrange a replacement. Emergencies happen, and our phone is always on if you need to call – but there’s no excuse for an alarm not going off or a no-show. One missed booking can affect the whole agency’s reputation, so reliability really matters. If you genuinely can’t do a job for any reason, just tell us.

Getting there

Organise your transport ahead of your shoot dates. You can be called for early starts or late finishes, so you need reliable transport you can count on. We’ll help where we can, but if you can’t get yourself there, it’s best not to accept the job.

On set

Once you’re there: keep your phone away, be quiet during breaks, only touch props you’re allowed to, and follow the rules of set. Look out for one another, too – if someone (especially a newer artist) isn’t sure of the etiquette, a quiet, friendly word goes a long way. Let’s show every production that RubyBlue is the dream team.

Paperwork & your own records

Come prepared. Have your paperwork sorted before the day – tax file number, bank details and super details (including your super membership number) – and carry it with you. Keep your own record of your times in and out, and keep an eye on your payslips.

Keep your slate up to date

Productions work from your slate, so keep it current. If your measurements or look change in any way, update it – wardrobe, hair and makeup all work from these. It’s handy to keep at least one up-to-date RubyBlue slate on your phone so you can text or email it to us quickly when asked.

Staying in touch

If a production contacts you directly, drop us a quick email with the dates and production name so we can keep our records up to date. For non-urgent things, email is perfect – especially outside business hours, so everyone gets some rest. For anything urgent, always call.

Thank you for your professionalism – it genuinely makes a difference. Let’s keep showing the industry exactly why RubyBlue talent are a pleasure to have on set.