Business Partner Left

[digitalskylight]

My partner and I started up a company roughly seven months ago- we wanted to have full control of doing what we love, as well as learn the business and how to be our own bosses. He then took on an internship recently at a production house, and was offered a job. He took that and is going to start working there in two weeks for steady pay and 9-5 work (both of which we weren't always getting). With him goes audio gear, a second hand a shooting, and someone who is good at producing.

My communication skills aren't up to par- I am primarily a DP, and subsequently I haven't met anyone else that could fill in on this. Is it time to just throw in the towel and try to find work elsewhere?

 

[Gregg Juke]

As far as finding work, only you (and your bank account, and your constitution) can determine that. As far as finding sound techs, production assistance (or assistants!), or other collaborators, they're out there. Why not keep going while you look for collaborators, and develop/hone your own skills in those other areas while you do?

Even if you have to get a day-job while you build your business, it doesn't mean that you have to quit. You may find that you like doing some of the other things that your partner was doing as much/even more than DPing.

One thing I would strongly suggest-- Is/was your partnership legal/on-paper? Are there any issues (with its dissolution) that need to be addressed through written agreement? Any other co-owned gear or other property, concepts, business name, etc.? You were in business for seven months; was it a legal/"on-the-books" business? How will you close the books/deal with taxes? Is there any outstanding intellectual property (films/videos/recordings, etc.) that there could be any dispute over in the future? (especially if there's a potential for any of it to ever make money)... Get whatever you need in writing (from your former partner) _now_, while he's happy with his new job, is still amenable, and before too much time has passed...

GJ

 

[metrospace]

You definitely need to put it all on paper with your soon-to-be-former-partner. If you can't afford a lawyer, do a little homework on the web and write up your own. Make sure it is clear that you assume total ownership of the company and any clients. If you don't, it could come back and bite you.

If you can, freelance yourself out as a DP while you learn more about producing and the other aspects of running the company yourself. Build up your list of other freelancers you can call on when you have projects. Maybe even use craigslist to find other freelancers (altho craigslist and production jobs is a whole 'nother discussion!).

If you have to, get a early morning or late-night job in the meantime (like loading trucks for UPS or tending bar) - whatever it takes.