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2006Legal / Business Practices forum

Operator and camera crew rates for low-budget HD features in the UK around 2006

20 years old. Gear and prices may have changed since.

What the thread found

  • Low-budget feature productions in the UK have been known to offer camera focus pullers weekly rates around 200 British pounds, with grip positions paid even less.
  • Operators with full rig packages including camera, prime lenses, and remote focus follow systems need to negotiate rates individually, especially when multi-week work is guaranteed.
  • Some productions attempt to combine camera operation with steadicam work at minimal additional pay.
  • Operators have reported receiving offers as low as 400 British pounds per week for six-day weeks operating Sony 750 cameras with kit included.
  • Establishing a deferred rate component, even at a reduced level, helps protect professional reputation and ensures others understand the true cost of services.
  • Many low-budget feature productions operating in the UK during this period were financed by American money.

Depends on

  • Discussion is specific to UK market conditions around 2006 and may not reflect current rates.
  • Rates discussed appear anecdotal rather than based on formal surveys.
  • The thread does not clarify whether quoted rates are daily, weekly, or project-based.
  • Distinction between HDV and true HD formats affects equipment and rate requirements but remained unresolved.

Parts

Follow Focus

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