Richard Ulivella

True - I have heard similar sentiment from those here in the US, though many people I encounter are working for big dough on set. When I ask them what happened, most claim that a DP they work for got a good break or they got a miracle call from a great gig and they've had work ever since. They didn't have to be proactive - my Manhattan rent and Italian appetite requires me to be a bit more active in my search for work. -Richard

I'm a professional full-time gaffer working in the New York City area for three years now...or at least, I'm trying to. I've worked on a lot of no/low pay shoots for great scripts and interesting visuals (such as lighting up the Brooklyn, Manhattan, and Queensboro Bridges at Night) but finding the "full pay" jobs has proven difficult. While my skills have grown my ability to make a living has almost remained the same. Often times I've had to take other freelance type positions in other businesses to make my living. This would be acceptable but I've been told and firmly believe that I am an excellent gaffer - my reel, satisfied DoPs, and even satisfied ADs and Producers tell me this frequently. I also love being on set and being responsible for helping the DP execute his/her vision. I'm capable and commited - this should be my primary source of income! So, I think that my problem is an inability to promote myself to those who hire (DPs, Prod. Co.'s, etc.) who are working on projects that could pay me acceptably. Many of the DP's I worked for in film school, though tremendously talented and skilled, are not yet working at a level where they can hire me for a livable wage as they are struggling themselves! Forget G&E budgets, they are now struggling to get their salary in the budget. How does one promote oneself in New York (or anywhere) as a below-the-line creative professional? As an AC, Gaffer, Key Grip, or even DP you've got to get the message to those who are hiring for your position that you're out there, skilled, and professional. However, who is it that you send something to and what? DPs and some Gaffers and Key Grips have reels, but do you send just that and a resume? Do you call in advance? Do gaffers call DP's and just ask them for work? I've never tried it but I can't imagine this would work or be considered normal behavior. I've read the posts in and around these forums and I know you guys have success and failure stories! Wiser ones shed some light upon this subject - please! Thanks, Richard Ulivella Gaffer/Chief Lighting Technician/Lighting Designer New York, NY