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Writing Pre Production Producing

Is it feasible / realistic to make a decent living from Script Editing and Reading?

2 years ago - Mark Hennigan

Hey all!

I'm interested in working as a script editor (and reader), but I'm totally green on the actual 'business' side of these things. I'm wondering if anyone can advise on some practicalities. Basically, is it feasible to make a decent living from working in this field? Does everyone work freelance in the area, or can you get work within a production company or funding body doing this kind of work?

I've begun approaching producers but the work seems to be bits and pieces from the ones I've spoken to. I suppose that's fine if I cast a wide enough net? I am concerned though when I see people online offering pretty detailed services for prices that I just don't see adding up. How can you read a feature length script and write a detailed report with thoughtful feedback and do it enough to make a living charging something like £50-60!?

(Note: I fully admit this might be totally on me. I might just be too slow and deliberate for this business!)

Any and all advice welcome!

Thanks!
Mark

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1 year, 12 months ago - Tina Walker

Hi Mark,

I'm not sure if this answers your question, but I used to work in-house in a small production company as a part of their development team as a script reader. They did not hire freelance readers, I'm not sure if that is the industry norm. I found the position by emailing production companies and asking if they had availability for such a role.

Best of luck with it,

Tina

1 year, 12 months ago - Mark Hennigan

Hi Tina!

This is super helpful, thanks! I've begun emailing production companies, so hopefully I can get some joy that way.

Thanks a mill!
Mark