Last Updated 4 days ago
Filmmaking Dictionary: Letter E / Extras Holding
What Is Extras Holding?
Extras holding, also called background holding, is the area where background performers wait and prepare when they are not required on set. It gives the production a known place to organise people, communicate instructions and bring the correct group to filming.
Holding may be a room, a tent or another suitable space arranged for the location. It is part of the production’s working plan, not simply whichever corner happens to be empty.
How Holding Fits into the Shooting Day
Background performers generally report according to their call instructions. Production then coordinates check-in, paperwork, wardrobe, hair and makeup where required, and movement to set. The order depends on the scene and the production’s arrangements.
When a group is needed, the responsible AD or PA brings those performers from holding and communicates the action. After a setup, some may return to holding while others remain nearby for continuity or additional coverage. Clear head counts prevent a new setup from stalling while someone searches for missing people.
What the Area Needs to Support
- A clear reporting point and a way to identify the required groups.
- Enough appropriate space for the number of people expected.
- Access to the agreed welfare facilities and suitable conditions for the location.
- Communication with the AD team and the departments preparing performers.
- A practical route to set that respects recording, public access and other work.
- Arrangements for keeping costumes, personal items and continuity information organised.
The specific facilities and working conditions depend on the production, location and applicable requirements. Plan those details during the location and scheduling process rather than improvising after everyone arrives.
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Who Coordinates Background Performers?
The first AD leads coordination on the shooting floor. Background organisation may be assigned to a second AD, third AD, additional AD, background PA or a dedicated team, depending on the country and crew structure. The title varies; the responsibility should be clear.
A production assistant working holding needs current instructions about which performers are required, their readiness and where they should report. A clear message such as “the six restaurant customers in evening wardrobe” is more useful than “send some background.”
Continuity and Movement to Set
Background action is part of the scene’s continuity. Clothing, props, positions and movement may need to match across takes. Do not assume performers can change costumes, remove makeup or leave the area because they are temporarily back in holding.
Before moving a group, confirm whether camera is rolling and which route is clear. Give people enough information to reach the correct position without crossing a shot or interrupting dialogue. When instructions change, update holding as well as the people already on set.
A Practical Example
A café scene needs customers at tables, two people passing outside and a separate group for a later street setup. Holding keeps those groups identifiable while wardrobe finishes the street performers. The AD team calls only the café group first, leaving the next group available without crowding the shooting floor.
At the end of the work, performers follow the production’s release and checkout process. Returning to holding is not itself a wrap call. Clear communication avoids people leaving before the required coverage or paperwork is finished.
Frequently Asked Questions
Is extras holding the same as a green room?
They can serve related waiting functions, but the terms are not interchangeable. Background holding is specifically organised around background performers and their movement through the production.
Does waiting in holding mean a performer is finished?
No. They may be needed for another take or setup. The responsible production representative confirms release.
Who should a background performer tell before leaving holding?
The designated AD or PA handling that group. Follow the production’s instructions so the team knows where people are when they are called.
Related Terms
- Background — performers and activity behind the principal action.
- Second Assistant Director — supporting calls, preparation and cast coordination.
- First Assistant Director — coordinating the shooting floor.
- Production Assistant — supporting production operations.
- Continuity — consistency between shots and takes.
Browse terms beginning with E or return to the filmmaking dictionary.