2014Steadi-Newbies forum
Structuring day rates and kit fees as a new steadicam operator seeking paid work
12 years old. Gear and prices may have changed since.
What the thread found
- A new operator should establish separate rates for their labor and their equipment rather than bundling them together, so they earn income from both components regardless of which rig is used.
- Producers typically do not need to know the technical details of which camera system will be used or whether gear is rented versus owned; the operator should determine specifications based on the production requirements and present a unified solution.
- When initial inquiries come in, focus on having a conversation with decision-makers about their specific needs before providing a detailed estimate, rather than pre-emptively listing system options.
- Communication to producers should emphasize what services are included such as an assistant and travel, without unnecessary qualifications like the word 'assuming' that undermine confidence.
Depends on
- The advice reflects practices in the mid-2010s and may not represent current market standards.
- No specific rate numbers are discussed in detail due to forum culture around not publicly naming day rates.
- The discussion focuses on domestic production practices and may not apply to all markets or regions.
- The poster is a recent graduate with limited professional experience, so this represents early-career perspective rather than established industry standard.
Gear in this thread
Parts
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