Working as an extra on film and TV sets is a lucrative side hustle that allows individuals to earn cash without requiring any acting experience or dialogue. These individuals, known as extras or supporting artists, populate the background of television shows, films, and commercials to make them look more realistic.
To become an extra, one must register with casting agencies such as Uni-versal Extras, Extra People, Ray Knight Casting, Phoenix Casting, or Casting Collective. The agencies charge registration fees, commission on bookings, or both, depending on their business model. It's essential to choose a reputable agency that clearly explains its fees upfront and avoids demanding large upfront payments or guaranteeing work.
The pay for extras varies widely depending on the production, location, and union rates. According to Casting Collective, extras can expect to earn between £150 and £250 per day on average. However, this rate may be higher for specific productions, such as ads or continuing drama series.
To increase one's chances of landing an extra role, it's crucial to create a profile with the casting agency, which includes basic details, physical statistics, skills, and often additional photos showcasing different looks. Vicky Wilson from Casting Collective emphasizes the importance of keeping the profile fresh and accurate, as well as uploading extra photos to stand out for various roles.
Once registered, extras may receive job inquiries via email or text with code names, outlining the role, location, call time, and estimated finish time. They must confirm their availability and may be "pencilled in" or "heavy pencilled in" if shortlisted. If selected, they'll receive a call sheet with exact details.
Working as an extra requires flexibility and patience. Job inquiries can come at short notice, and filming days can be long and unpredictable. Extras should be prepared to spend long hours waiting around, following instructions carefully, and sometimes repeating scenes multiple times.
When working on set, extras are often paid for travel, food, and other expenses. The pay varies depending on the production, location, and union rates. For example, productions using Equity rates may pay £4 to £20 for travel, with an extra £9 for calls before 6 am (7 am on Sundays or bank holidays).
It's essential for extras to check their employment status as self-employed individuals and pay their own tax and national insurance. They must also be flexible and able to adjust their schedules according to the production's needs.
For those considering working as an extra, it's crucial to understand that the work is not glamorous but can be a lucrative side hustle. With flexibility and patience, anyone can become an extra and earn cash without requiring any acting experience or dialogue.
To become an extra, one must register with casting agencies such as Uni-versal Extras, Extra People, Ray Knight Casting, Phoenix Casting, or Casting Collective. The agencies charge registration fees, commission on bookings, or both, depending on their business model. It's essential to choose a reputable agency that clearly explains its fees upfront and avoids demanding large upfront payments or guaranteeing work.
The pay for extras varies widely depending on the production, location, and union rates. According to Casting Collective, extras can expect to earn between £150 and £250 per day on average. However, this rate may be higher for specific productions, such as ads or continuing drama series.
To increase one's chances of landing an extra role, it's crucial to create a profile with the casting agency, which includes basic details, physical statistics, skills, and often additional photos showcasing different looks. Vicky Wilson from Casting Collective emphasizes the importance of keeping the profile fresh and accurate, as well as uploading extra photos to stand out for various roles.
Once registered, extras may receive job inquiries via email or text with code names, outlining the role, location, call time, and estimated finish time. They must confirm their availability and may be "pencilled in" or "heavy pencilled in" if shortlisted. If selected, they'll receive a call sheet with exact details.
Working as an extra requires flexibility and patience. Job inquiries can come at short notice, and filming days can be long and unpredictable. Extras should be prepared to spend long hours waiting around, following instructions carefully, and sometimes repeating scenes multiple times.
When working on set, extras are often paid for travel, food, and other expenses. The pay varies depending on the production, location, and union rates. For example, productions using Equity rates may pay £4 to £20 for travel, with an extra £9 for calls before 6 am (7 am on Sundays or bank holidays).
It's essential for extras to check their employment status as self-employed individuals and pay their own tax and national insurance. They must also be flexible and able to adjust their schedules according to the production's needs.
For those considering working as an extra, it's crucial to understand that the work is not glamorous but can be a lucrative side hustle. With flexibility and patience, anyone can become an extra and earn cash without requiring any acting experience or dialogue.