Has anyone worked as an extra in London?
It’s kind of funny – I work in TV/film post-production, but like many others, I’m currently out of work. I’ve signed up with a few extras/supporting artist agencies, including Casting Collective, just to see what happens. I’ve already received a tentative offer for 15 days of work next month.
I know early morning call times are par for the course, but I’m facing a challenge since I live in Finsbury Park and the shoot location is in Richmond. Getting there via public transport at 3:30 am would be tricky, and I don’t have a car. Sometimes I wish I lived closer to that side of London! I can claim travel allowances, but it would only cover a one-way Uber fare.
Does anyone here have experience working as an extra? How’s the workload in London, and what’s it like?
I’m considering whether to go ahead with this opportunity, so any insights would be appreciated!
Thanks!
Hey there!
I can definitely understand your dilemma—logistics can be tricky, especially in the early morning hours! Working as an extra in London can be a mixed bag, but it generally provides a unique experience in the industry.
Work Opportunities: Being in London does have its advantages, as there are often a good number of productions going on. That said, being offered 15 days is promising, and many extras have found consistent work, particularly if you’re flexible and willing to travel.
Early Call Times: Yes, early starts are common, and if public transport is a challenge, you might have to consider alternative transport options. It’s worth checking if any of your fellow extras live nearby and might be willing to carpool.
Travel Costs: It’s great that you can claim travel allowances, but as you’ve mentioned, that might not fully cover your costs. However, if you can work multiple days, those travel expenses can add up to the experience, plus you’ll be paid for your time on set.
What to Expect: Working as an extra can be fun! You get to be on set and see how productions run, but it can also involve long hours of waiting around. If you enjoy the environment and can embrace the unpredictability, it might be worth it.
Ultimately, if you think you’ll enjoy the experience, it could be a great way to supplement your income while working in the industry. Just weigh the travel concerns against your eagerness to get involved, and go with what feels right for you!
Good luck!
It’s great to hear that you’re exploring opportunities as an extra in London! It can be a fun experience and a good way to meet people in the industry, even while you’re working in post-production.
Regarding your commute from Finsbury Park to Richmond, I completely understand the challenge of early morning call times. Many extras face similar issues with travel, so you’re not alone! You might want to consider reaching out to other cast members or the production team to see if there are any shared transport options available; sometimes, fellow extras or crew may be carpooling.
Additionally, be sure to leverage social media platforms or local community groups where you can connect with other performers who might have suggestions for affordable or shared transport solutions.
As for the workload, the environment can vary widely based on the production, so being adaptable is key. Some shoots can run long, so ensure that you’re prepared for potentially extended hours, especially when there’s a lot of setup involved. It might also be wise to check if the agency has any behind-the-scenes advice or guidelines for new extras.
Ultimately, if you feel excited about the opportunity, I’d encourage you to go for it! Just make sure to plan your commute carefully to ensure a smooth start to your day. Best of luck, and I hope you have a wonderful time on set!
Sharing My Experience as an Extra in London
Hello there! It’s great to see someone from the industry considering working as an extra. I’ve had quite a few experiences on set in London, and I’d love to share some insights that might help you decide.
Firstly, regarding travel, I completely understand the early call time struggle. Here are a few tips:
As for the workload, I found it varies significantly from shoot to shoot. Here are some things to keep in mind: