Here’s the next part of our side hustle case study series, where real people share how they make some extra cash! This week, Pete from Household Money Saving talks about his interesting side gig – working as a movie extra.
Tell us a bit about yourself and your side hustle.
I’m married with three kids and work full-time, but I’m always looking for ways to earn a bit more. My side hustle is being a movie extra. Anyone can do it, and you don’t need any special skills.
How long have you been doing this, and how did you start?
I’ve been doing it for just over a year and a half. I saw an ad on Facebook looking for extras for a movie being filmed nearby. Some friends were supposed to join me, but they backed out, so I went alone.
What does the work involve? What’s a typical day like for you?
The work isn’t glamorous. A 30-second scene can take hours to film. As an extra, you usually just walk or sit in the background, which means you can be on your feet for a long time. In one movie set in the 1930s, my shoes were uncomfortable, and it was even worse for women in heels! Days can be very long. You might start at 6 a.m. for hair and makeup and stay until past 8 p.m. if filming doesn’t go as planned, but you do get paid extra. Food and drinks are provided, but you eat separately from the main cast and crew.
How much can you make from this side hustle?
It varies. Movies and TV studios pay different amounts, and your agent takes a cut. For a 12-hour day, you can expect to make around £200.
Are there any start-up costs or ongoing expenses?
Some casting agencies have urgent calls where you can apply without being a full-time member, but usually, you need to join a casting agent’s books, which costs about £50-100. Some agents only charge you when you get your first job. If you’re serious, you might want professional headshots to stand out, and some extras even have their own outfits for filming.
What advice would you give to someone who wants to start?
Don’t expect to find work right away, and be prepared for some uncertainty. Sometimes you’re told you’re needed for a job, then you’re not, and then you are again. It can be frustrating when trying to juggle work and family. The work can be boring, but meeting stars and seeing the filming process is pretty cool.
Where can we find you?
Blog: www.householdmoneysaving.com
Facebook page: https://www.facebook.com/moneysaverpete/
Thanks, Pete!