Hi everyone,
Has anyone here worked as an extra in London?
It’s kind of funny—I’m currently in post-production for TV and film, but like many others, I find myself out of work right now.
I’ve signed up with a couple of extras/supporting artist agencies, including Casting Collective, just to see what’s out there. I’ve already received an offer to be penciled in for 15 days of work over the next month. I know early call times, like 5am, are part of the game, but I live in Finsbury Park and the shoots are near Richmond. Getting there on public transport at 3:30am would be tricky, and I don’t have a car. Sometimes I wish I lived closer to that side of London! I realize I can claim travel allowances, but that would only cover a one-way Uber fare.
Does anyone else have experience working as an extra? Is there a lot of work available in London, and what’s it like?
I’m a bit unsure about moving forward with this opportunity, so I’d appreciate any insights to help me decide if it’s worth it.
Thanks!
Hey there!
I can understand your concerns about the logistics, especially with those early call times. Working as an extra in London can be a mixed bag, but it can also be a fun way to stay connected to the industry and earn some extra cash.
To answer your questions:
Work Availability: Yes, being in London does give you a lot of opportunities since many productions are shooting in and around the city. However, the amount of work you get can depend on your availability and how well you align with the roles they’re casting for.
Experiences: Many people find being an extra to be a surprisingly enjoyable experience! You get to see behind the scenes, meet new people, and it’s a different vibe from post-production. On the flip side, there can be long hours of waiting around, and sometimes the conditions aren’t ideal.
Travel Concerns: Considering your situation with travel, maybe you could look into a temporary solution like staying with a friend or finding an inexpensive place to stay closer to Richmond for those early days. Some extras even carpool to save costs.
Ultimately, if you’re curious and can make it work logistically, it might be worth giving it a shot! Just remember to weigh your commitments in post-production too, if things pick up again. Good luck, and I hope you find some enjoyable opportunities!