How to Become a Stand-in Actor

How to become a stand-in actor: Stand-in actors play a critical role in the film and television industry.

They are responsible for rehearsing blocking and camera shots for the principal actors and lighting and technical adjustments.

Stand-ins are essential to the smooth running of production, and they often work closely with the director, cinematographer, and other crew members.

If you want to become a stand-in actor, this guide will provide an overview of the skills and qualifications you will need. And also the steps you can take to build a successful career in this field.

Table of Contents

How to Become a Stand-in Actor: Skills and Qualifications

One of the most important qualifications for a stand-in actor is the physical resemblance to the principal actor.

The stand-in’s role is to take the place of the principal actor during rehearsals and technical adjustments.

A close physical resemblance is necessary for the crew to make accurate lighting and camera adjustments.

In addition to physical resemblance, stand-in actors must also have good communication and teamwork skills. They must be able to take direction well and work closely with the director, cinematographer, and other members of the crew.

Stand-ins also need to be flexible and available, as productions often have long and unpredictable schedules.

Basic acting skills are also a plus, as stand-ins often have to act out blocking and camera shots for the principal actors.

How to Become a Stand-in Actor: Building a Resume and Reel

As with most jobs in the film and television industry, building a strong resume and reel is essential for getting a job as a stand-in actor.

Your resume should include basic personal information, physical characteristics, availability, and contact details.

Your reel should be a compilation of your best work as a stand-in, showcasing your skills and experience.

It’s important to include footage of you standing in for the principal actors and footage of you acting out blocking and camera shots.

Networking and Experience

Networking is critical in the film and television industry as a stand-in actor. Connecting with other actors, industry professionals, and casting directors is essential.

You can do this by attending industry events, networking, and workshops.

Finding small opportunities to work as a stand-in on productions is also essential. This can include background work or small projects.

This will help you gain real-world experience by working on various productions. It will help you build a strong resume and will also help you to build connections within the industry.

How to Become a Stand-in Actor: Marketing Yourself

Marketing yourself is essential in the film and television industry, and it’s no different for stand-in actors.

Creating a strong online presence, utilizing social media, and building a personal brand will help you showcase your work and skills. It will also help you to build a following.

Having a professional website and being active on social media platforms such as Instagram, Facebook, and TikTok can help you to connect with potential clients. It will also help build a strong professional network.

How Much Does a Stand-in Sctor Earn?

The salary for a stand-in actor can vary greatly depending on the production and their experience level.

In general, stand-ins for lead actors can earn a higher rate than those for background extras.

According to the screen actors guild (SAG), the minimum wage for a stand-in is $168 per day for low-budget productions and $334 per day for higher-budget productions.

However, many stand-ins earn more than the minimum wage, with some earning $500 daily.

Stand-ins with a lot of experience and who have worked on major productions can earn even more.

They may also be able to negotiate higher pay rates based on their experience and reputation.

Additionally, stand-ins who work on union productions will earn more than those who work on non-union productions.

It is important to note that stand-ins are typically paid as independent contractors, not full-time employees.

This means they cannot get health insurance and paid time off benefits. Stand-ins also typically do not receive residuals or royalties for their work.

Is a Stand-in Actor the Same Thing as a Double?

A stand-in and a double are similar in that they stand in for actors on set but have slightly different roles and responsibilities.

A stand-in primarily helps with lighting and camera setup. They take the place of the main actor during rehearsals and technical runs, allowing the crew to get the lighting and camera angles just right.

They may also block out scenes and help the main actor with their movement and positioning. Stand-ins must have a similar physical appearance to the main actor they are standing in for.

On the other hand, a double is used to shoot scenes that are too dangerous or difficult for the main actor to perform. They may be used for stunts, action scenes, or scenes that involve a lot of movement.

Doubles are typically chosen for their physical abilities and skills rather than their resemblance to the main actor.

Sometimes, a stand-in may also serve as a double, but the two roles are not always the same.

Overall, stand-ins are those required to have similar physical appearances and characteristics to the main actor, while doubles are chosen for their physical abilities and skills.

Conclusion

Becoming a successful stand-in actor requires a combination of physical resemblance, good communication, teamwork skills, flexibility and availability, and basic acting skills.

To become a stand-in actor, you need to build a strong resume. Networking and gaining real-world experience are also essential steps in achieving a successful career as a stand-in actor.

With hard work and determination, you can turn your passion for acting into a successful and rewarding career as a stand-in actor.