Pricing for a four day shoot

[Andystrwake]

I am still a little new to the freelance world. I have been asked to do a 4 day shoot in BC, Canada. This will include 2 days travel, and 2 shoot days. What would be a good rate for the project? I am using my own DVX100A. Thanks for any response.

 

[Lensmith]

It's a tough question because, like many things in this business, there is no single "right" answer.

Things you should consider.

-Your level of experience. Do they want you simply because you own a camera or because they know you and your ability...or both?

-Are you working alone or with an audio person?

-What other support gear are you supplying besides the camera? Are you responsible for transportation? i.e. are you using your own vehicle to travel and for the shoot days? Are you supplying lots of audio gear and lights too?

-travel days...are you getting paid to travel to the shoot? Usually you should get something since the idea is if you weren't traveling you could be working elsewhere and making a buck. I charge a half day rate for a travel day. Others charge a full day rate...but I can't get away with that.:laugh:

-Is there possible overtime involved or is it a true "day" of work where you are supposed to shoot any time during a 24 hour time frame?

-Are they paying for your meals?

Make sure and work out the details. Things like...who is paying for the tape? Are you sharing a hotel room or...sleeping in your car?:embarasse I know...it sounds silly but it's best to know silly little details before you commit to a day rate. Things you might assume are not always a given in the minds of others.

Labor rate alone for a standard network crew, with experience, is US$350 for a ten hour day. You can use that as some sort of base to begin your thinking. That does NOT include the camera gear!

Here in Central America we have to do some crazy negotiations but, on average, a Sony PD170 or DVX100a "crew" for a day...which includes a soundman/mule is between five and six hundred US Dollars. If it's a dangerous situation the price can be higher. As much as eight hundred dollars for a "little cam" crew. But the client is paying all travel expenses of hotel, food, transportation and tape.

I hope this helps you start to find your own price.

Good luck.