2013Steadi-Newbies forum
Pricing guidelines for steadicam operators at different career levels and project types
13 years old. Gear and prices may have changed since.
What the thread found
- A-level steadicam operators on high-budget feature films typically earn between $250-$300 per hour with a ten-hour minimum daily rate, plus approximately $10,000 weekly for steadicam equipment rental.
- Experienced operators working on network television productions may earn around $100 per hour with approximately $5,000 weekly equipment rental fees.
- Commercial work for major brands may pay $2,500 for a ten-hour day plus $2,000 for equipment rental.
- Music video work typically pays $1,500 flat for experienced operators with available scheduling.
- Wedding steadicam work can be hired at approximately $1,000 or less.
- An operator starting their career should expect significantly lower rates than established professionals.
- Taking a formal steadicam training class represents a valuable investment in career development.
- An operator beginning at age 24 is considered a normal entry point for the profession.
Depends on
- These rates reflect 2013 pricing and may not be current.
- High-end rates assume significant professional experience, multiple quality rigs, and established industry reputation.
- Regional differences in pricing are not specified.
- The provided examples are approximate figures and actual rates vary by project, client budget, and negotiation.
- Rates for entry-level operators beginning their careers are not explicitly stated.