Working as an extra on TV or film sets may seem like a simple way to make some cash, but it's not all glamour and excitement. While earning £250 for one day of filming is possible, pay rates vary widely depending on the production, agency, and location.
To start working as an extra, you'll need to register with one or more agencies such as Uni-versal Extras, Extra People, Ray Knight Casting, Phoenix Casting, or Casting Collective. These agencies will take a commission on your bookings, but reputable ones will explain their fees upfront. Be wary of any agency demanding a large upfront payment or guaranteeing work – these could be scams.
Once you're registered, you can expect to be paid between £150 and £250 per day, depending on the production's union pay scheme. There are different rates for London and the south east of England, as well as for specific types of productions like continuing drama series. Pay also includes holiday pay and overtime, with higher rates on bank holidays.
To stand out, you'll need to create a profile that showcases your physical characteristics and skills. This may include providing headshots, full-length photos, and images in different outfits or costumes. A Disclosure and Barring Service (DBS) certificate can increase your chances of working on productions featuring children.
As an extra, be prepared for long hours, waiting around, and following instructions carefully. You'll often spend time in costume or makeup, have to stand in the rain, or repeat the same scene all day. Don't get starstruck – just do your job and enjoy the experience.
You'll need to pay your own tax and national insurance as a self-employed individual, with up to £1,000 of earnings tax-free each year under HM Revenue and Customs "trading allowance" rules. Be flexible with your schedule, as filming days can be long and change at short notice.
Working as an extra may not be the most glamorous job, but it can be a lucrative side hustle for those who are willing to put in the time and effort. With the right attitude and preparation, you could find yourself earning £250 or more for one day of filming – but don't forget to keep your priorities straight and enjoy the experience along the way.
To start working as an extra, you'll need to register with one or more agencies such as Uni-versal Extras, Extra People, Ray Knight Casting, Phoenix Casting, or Casting Collective. These agencies will take a commission on your bookings, but reputable ones will explain their fees upfront. Be wary of any agency demanding a large upfront payment or guaranteeing work – these could be scams.
Once you're registered, you can expect to be paid between £150 and £250 per day, depending on the production's union pay scheme. There are different rates for London and the south east of England, as well as for specific types of productions like continuing drama series. Pay also includes holiday pay and overtime, with higher rates on bank holidays.
To stand out, you'll need to create a profile that showcases your physical characteristics and skills. This may include providing headshots, full-length photos, and images in different outfits or costumes. A Disclosure and Barring Service (DBS) certificate can increase your chances of working on productions featuring children.
As an extra, be prepared for long hours, waiting around, and following instructions carefully. You'll often spend time in costume or makeup, have to stand in the rain, or repeat the same scene all day. Don't get starstruck – just do your job and enjoy the experience.
You'll need to pay your own tax and national insurance as a self-employed individual, with up to £1,000 of earnings tax-free each year under HM Revenue and Customs "trading allowance" rules. Be flexible with your schedule, as filming days can be long and change at short notice.
Working as an extra may not be the most glamorous job, but it can be a lucrative side hustle for those who are willing to put in the time and effort. With the right attitude and preparation, you could find yourself earning £250 or more for one day of filming – but don't forget to keep your priorities straight and enjoy the experience along the way.
I think this is a perfect example of how our economic system can be rigged against the little guy 
. Think about it, you gotta register with these agencies, pay for headshots and DBS certificates... it's like they're charging you just to play the game 
. And what really gets me is that they're not even transparent about their fees upfront 
. It's like, we should be paying taxes on our labor, but at least the government gives us a heads up when something's fishy 
. But hey, if you're willing to put in the work and take on some risks, it can be a sweet gig 
.
Still, if you're willing to put in the work and be flexible with your schedule, it can be a pretty sweet side hustle. Just make sure you know what you're getting yourself into and don't get taken advantage of by any dodgy agencies! 
You gotta make sure to research before signing up.
! She was like "just chillin' in costume all day" 
, but she actually got paid £200 and even got to see behind the scenes of the production 
! But hey, if you're willing to put in the work and be flexible with your schedule, it can be a pretty sweet gig 
I mean, who needs all that glamour when you can get paid £150-£250 a day? 
And don't even get me started on the pay rates, they vary so much depending on production and location... 
I mean, £250 is possible, but what about when it's like £150? 
that sounds like torture! anyway if you're thinking of becoming an extra just make sure you're prepared for long hours and flexibility with your schedule - and don't forget to prioritize self-care 
because let's be real it's not all rain and shine (literally 
).
... I mean, who needs a million followers when you can get paid to stand in the background and look cool? As an extra on TV or film sets, it's not all fun and games, trust me. You gotta deal with long hours, bad weather, and following instructions all day (no, your "actor" friends don't count as part of the crew). And don't even get me started on the agencies – some are legit, but others are total scams. Just be prepared to put in the work and enjoy the ride (and don't forget to pay your taxes 
️
like "hey I'll get paid 150-250 quid a day, woohoo!" But honestly, its not all fun and games...you gotta be prepared for long hours, following instructions to the letter, and sometimes standing in the rain or makeup for hours on end. And dont even get me started on taxes 
working as an extra can be a legit way to earn some cash on set but u gotta know what ur getting into... pay rates vary wildily dependin on production & location, some days u can make £250 but others might only get u £150 
also gotta pay tax & national insurance as ur own boss 
. Plus, you gotta pay your own tax and insurance, so that's just another thing to keep track of. But hey, if you're willing to put in the work, it can be a pretty good side hustle. Just don't forget to prioritize your mental health and enjoy the experience, 'kay? 