I also charge a day rate.

My day rate is my hourly rate multiplied by how many hours are in that day. I don’t have any trouble getting it and I have plenty of work.

I still don’t see what this has to do with the original topic.

I think it was you saying:

"And yes I have shot real estate video one thing that you said that bugged me was day rate. It has been my experience that someone that ask for day rate usually wants more than they are willing to pay for. If you want a Pro you will have to pay for one."

It's just that most professionals don't work by the hour only by the day. The reason being that you usually can't work for anyone else. Sometimes this may only involve actually working for a couple of hours, but they still charge for the full day.

Most producers know how most they can shoot within their scheduled day and budget accordingly, so the industry standard is the daily rate. You do get hourly rates in post production, especially when working with high kit, however, unless you're careful, you can go seriously over budget.

The producers who you do need to be wary of are those asking for an all in deal.

Regarding the original thread, it seems to be agreed that professionals do use the auto mode when it's appropriate for the shot(s) in hand.

Brian, that is a very good point the all in one deal is what I avoid. I work hard and I want to get paid for my work.

Now I have donated my services on many occasions when the cause is good or the project is fun and I can learn something.