Working as an Extra on TV and Film Sets: A Lucrative Side Hustle?
The UK film and television industry is a multibillion-pound market that employs thousands of people behind the scenes. One such group of workers are extras, also known as background artists, who populate the backgrounds of TV shows and films to make them look realistic.
Extras do not require any acting experience or dialogue lines, making it an accessible side hustle for those looking to earn some extra cash. They can work on a day-to-day basis, with payment rates ranging from £150 to £250 per day, depending on the production company and union rates.
To become an extra, you 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 charge a registration fee and commission on bookings, but reputable ones will clearly explain their fees upfront.
Once registered, you'll create a profile that includes basic details, physical statistics, and skills such as driving or dancing. You may be asked to provide headshots, full-length photos, and images in different outfits. Some productions also require extras to have specific skills, such as swimming or wearing costumes.
Job inquiries typically come via email or text with code names to keep production confidential. You'll need to confirm your availability and may be "pencilled in" or "heavy pencilled in" if shortlisted. If you're not selected, you'll be released later on; if you are booked, the call sheet with exact details will usually arrive the night before.
Being an extra can be a waiting game, as filming days can be long and change at short notice. You may spend time in costume or makeup, have to stand in the rain, or repeat scenes all day. You're considered self-employed, so you need to pay your own tax and national insurance.
To take advantage of this lucrative side hustle, it's essential to be flexible with your schedule and have a willing attitude. Extras must have a very flexible diary, as chances of being picked are low. However, those who do land roles can earn up to £250 per day, making it an attractive option for students, freelancers, and retirees looking for additional income.
In conclusion, working as an extra on TV and film sets can be a rewarding and lucrative side hustle. With the right attitude and flexibility, you can take advantage of this opportunity to earn some extra cash while enjoying your passion for film and television.
The UK film and television industry is a multibillion-pound market that employs thousands of people behind the scenes. One such group of workers are extras, also known as background artists, who populate the backgrounds of TV shows and films to make them look realistic.
Extras do not require any acting experience or dialogue lines, making it an accessible side hustle for those looking to earn some extra cash. They can work on a day-to-day basis, with payment rates ranging from £150 to £250 per day, depending on the production company and union rates.
To become an extra, you 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 charge a registration fee and commission on bookings, but reputable ones will clearly explain their fees upfront.
Once registered, you'll create a profile that includes basic details, physical statistics, and skills such as driving or dancing. You may be asked to provide headshots, full-length photos, and images in different outfits. Some productions also require extras to have specific skills, such as swimming or wearing costumes.
Job inquiries typically come via email or text with code names to keep production confidential. You'll need to confirm your availability and may be "pencilled in" or "heavy pencilled in" if shortlisted. If you're not selected, you'll be released later on; if you are booked, the call sheet with exact details will usually arrive the night before.
Being an extra can be a waiting game, as filming days can be long and change at short notice. You may spend time in costume or makeup, have to stand in the rain, or repeat scenes all day. You're considered self-employed, so you need to pay your own tax and national insurance.
To take advantage of this lucrative side hustle, it's essential to be flexible with your schedule and have a willing attitude. Extras must have a very flexible diary, as chances of being picked are low. However, those who do land roles can earn up to £250 per day, making it an attractive option for students, freelancers, and retirees looking for additional income.
In conclusion, working as an extra on TV and film sets can be a rewarding and lucrative side hustle. With the right attitude and flexibility, you can take advantage of this opportunity to earn some extra cash while enjoying your passion for film and television.
. Plus, who doesn't love being on set, right? Watching movies and TV shows all day is like, the ultimate dream job 
. Of course, it's not all sunshine and rainbows, but for those who are flexible and willing to take the chance, it could be a really lucrative side hustle 
Extras r not gettin paid much but it's a great way 2 meet new ppl, see behind the scenes of famous movies & TV shows. Plus, u never know ur gonna be in somethin big 1 day! 
I personally think its a great side hustle 4 students or freelancers lookin 4 extra cash. U just gotta be flexible & willing 2 wait around 4 hours or more 4 ur shift 
... being an extra is kinda like being part of the magic behind those movies & TV shows 
. You don't have to be a famous actor, just someone who's willing to show up & look cool in the background 
. I heard some people make decent cash doing this, like £150-£250 per day 
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. Not to mention all the waiting around, time spent in costume and makeup, and dealing with unpredictable schedules... it's not exactly a glamorous life 
...it's not just about lookin good on camera, it's about blendin in wiv the background. also, u gotta keep an eye out 4 those commission fees from agencies 
. just don't expect 2 be a star overnight 
.
It's like getting paid to be a part of your favorite movie or TV show. And the best part is, you don't even need any acting experience - just being willing and flexible with your schedule. 
That's so inspiring! Plus, it's great that there are agencies to help people register and find work, making it more accessible. I know some friends who could totally do this, especially students or freelancers looking for a side hustle. It's like the ultimate way to earn extra cash while living your best life... what's not to love? 
i mean yeah it can be waiting around for hours but if you're into that kinda vibe then go for it! also i'm living for the fact that you gotta pay your own taxes as a freelancer, my accountant told me to just eat more ramen noodles and save up for next year 
As a DIYer, I'd love to see some cheaper alternatives for making your own costumes or props instead of breaking the bank on those fancy agencies. And, what's up with all the headshots and full-length photos? Can't they just be casual vids or something? 
u guys wanna be extras too? 
. Just gotta be prepared to wait around for hours or even days between bookings 
. Still, if you're a film buff like me, this could be the ultimate side hustle dream job