What should I expect on set as an adult extra?
Expect to wait around a lot! Big productions are BIG, there are lots of cameras to check, lots of previous scenes to over run and lots of people to funnel through hair and make up - especially if you are taking part in a large group party scene.
Depending on the production you might have access to a small trailer or you may be waiting around to the side of set in designated seated areas. There is a chance that mobile phones may be prohibited on set, particularly if the production is worried about spoilers, so don’t rely on that for your entertainment - bring an old skool book!
In my experience it is fascinating to get to watch mainstream productions in action and they are very generous about what you are allowed to see. Hair and makeup are your best friends and again in my experience love a natter.
Intimacy coordinators are their to help translate the passionate needs of the director into actionable information for you the performer in a sensitive way. They will regularly check in with you but are you point of contact if you do not feel comfortable with what is being asked of you or the behaviour of those you are interacting with. Intimacy coordinators typically reach out before the shoot day but that is not always the case.
During most (not all) nude sex scenes male performers wear a modesty poach which is essentially a little flesh coloured bag that the penis is placed inside.
During down time robes should be offered to performers for modesty and to stop anyone getting cold (just like on a porn set). Robes will be handed out during long breaks but when things are just being reset or tweaked it is expected that as adult performers you will be comfortable remaining in a state of undress.
Food! If you are on set for a full day (8 hours +) food will be provided. Like the real world some catering companies are better than others. Meals are not served at set times but are provided. When a shoot day over runs they are required to provide additional food - often they will send out for pizza. For the first scene of the day you may be asked if you would rather come to set early and breakfast before hair and makeup or have an extra hours sleep.
At the end of the work day there may be paperwork, specifically NDAs (none disclosure agreements). XXXtras will be dealing with invoicing on your behalf (unless you are told other wise) so there shouldn’t be any reason for you to share your bank details.
