Snag some face time in the next big blockbuster.

New York City is one of the world’s most cinematic locations and an important center of the film industry. Movies and TV shows are filmed daily in local studios and city streets. Even if you’re not pursuing an acting career, you can get on-screen time as an extra. Hundreds—sometimes thousands—of people are needed to help re-create “normal” indoor and outdoor city settings, and casting agencies often hold open casting calls to find just the right mix.

Perks: You can usually get paid, even for the many hours you’ll spend waiting. You also get meals. You get to meet lots of other people. And yes, even though top talent is often filmed separately, you do get close to the stars on occasion, though “close” may mean several feet away. And best of all, you—and your friends, family and fans—may get a chance see yourself onscreen—if only for a moment.

The best way to see if an “atmosphere” or “background” (what extras are called on-set) gig is for you is to check out an open call like the recent one for the film Men In Black 3. Local casting agencies like Grant Wilfley hold them on a regular basis, and you can sign up to get information via email; you can also check in with resources like Moviex and Extra-casting.

For regular extra work, get some head shots done by a professional, and register with several casting agencies. When there’s a need for someone with your looks, they’ll call. Casting agents often seek an unusual look: a wide variety of weights and ages as well as “unique” types with rainbow-hued hair, tattoos, piercings and sartorial eccentricities to film nightclub and subculture scenes.

Find out more about working as an extra here and here. Check the city’s film and television site for more information about local filming.