When I think back on some of my jobs within the film industry, there is one in particular that I am particularly fond of – being a film stand-in. As a stand-in, you get to work one-on-one with the director and lead actors, and it is an excellent experience to learn the ins-and-outs of a film set while networking with some of the most successful workers in the entertainment industry. Perhaps one of the most common questions I receive from those who are just starting out as an extra or stand-in is, “Can I make a living being a stand-in?”
The answer to this question is relative to what making a living is in your mind. If you have an extremely high rent, car payment and other bills, working as a stand-in may not cut it; however, if you live modestly and have limited bills, it is possible to make a living working as a stand-in. Actually, I know several people who have not held a standard 9 to 5 job in several years as they continually work on films as an extra and stand-in; however, their experiences are not typical.
Within this article, I will outline whether or not this career choice is a wise one for you.
Payment
This is one of the most important answers someone who is considering working as a stand-in fulltime needs to understand. Compensation as a stand-in is higher than that of an extra or featured extra; however, it may not be enough to support a family. On average, you will make $125 a day (if you are non-union). While this may seem attractive, you are only paid for the days you have to work. If you’re working on a film where you’re standing-in for the lead actor, then you will most likely be working almost every day of the production; however, if you’re standing-in for a minor character you may only be on set for a quarter of the entire production.
Life Expenses
When you’re working a standard 9 to 5 job, you are required to pay for your gas, food and other expenses while you’re working; however, as a stand-in all your meals and sometimes your gas, is provided for. This can significantly reduce your monthly bills. Again, its true benefit depends on how many days out of the week you are working. If you’re on set five days out of the week, you will literally not have to spend a dime on food as you’re given three solid meals a day (plus all the snacks you can handle); however, if you’re only on set one or two days out of the week, this benefit will not outweigh the financial requirement to feed yourself, and your family.
Work Stability
While you may think that working as a stand-in can provide you with ample money to pay your bills and live comfortably, this career choice may not be the most stable choice. Living in larger market such as Atlanta or Los Angeles may provide you with ample opportunities; however, it is always the luck of the draw. There may be 10 movies filming in your city; however, if you don’t fit the physical description of any of the main characters, then you’re out of work.
Overall, it is possible to make a living being a stand-in; however, there are far too many variables that make this work choice shifty. As I tell all my friends and co-workers who ask me this question, “Yes, it’s possible, but don’t count on it…and don’t quit your stable job.”