Fair Pay for Cinematographers in Indie Films

[Abhinay Pandit]

I’m currently working on my second feature film in Texas, which has a budget of approximately $1 million (and likely to exceed that). I recently had a meeting with the production team, and they’ve offered me $15,000 for the entire production. This includes 30 days of on-ground production, 30-40 days of on-ground pre-production, and additional prep work off-ground through calls (though I feel that's a standard expectation).

After researching, I’ve found that cinematographers typically quote between 5-8% of the production budget, which in this case would be around $50,000 to $80,000. Considering the indie nature of the production and my experience, the $15,000 offer feels significantly low.

How should I approach this? It’s a recurring challenge I’ve faced recently, despite having worked on several commercials, music videos, short films, and one feature.

I’d love to hear your thoughts and feedback on navigating this.

[Albion Hockney]

business (which is an unfortunate part of this game) is about leverage. if you are afraid to lose the movie because of pushing back then your are in a bind. That said a good producer wants you to be happy so that you are excited to work on the movie so they should negotiate. if you feel you are highly skilled, the director wants you and your better then other DP's they may be talking with then you are in a good position. Do you have an agent, at this budget levels agents might be interested??

I'm sure there is someone with more experience who will weigh in though good luck!

 

 

[Mark Dunn]

Working out a putative hourly rate I looked up the Texas minimum wage. Shocking.

[JB Earl]

I'd love to see more discussion on this.  Indie film rates are all over the place and it's really difficult.

 

30-40 days of on ground pre-production on a 1 million budget?  How much is for talent?

Edited January 14 by JB Earl