What to Charge for ...
 

I'm sure this topic is somewhere in the fourms but I didnt see anything so I figured I would try it in the open discussion.

I have not taken on many jobs yet as I am still building / buying things for my video company, but from time to time I get a small job.

LONG VERSION:
A steel building company wants me to come film the construction of a small steel building (should take about 4 hours I'm guessing). What is the going hourly rate for camera operation (xl1s, bogen 501, no audio)? I dont think I will need to bring any lighting (maybe a reflector because it will be outside around midday) I have googled websites in my area that charge anywhere from $75-$250 an hour. I am assuming that cost is just for the filming and editing is seprate.

After I get the footage I will bring it back to edit into a finished DVD. When finished the video will have an chapter menus, an intro with their logo etc etc. What is the going hourly rate for video editing?

SHORT VERSION:
Bassicaly my question are:
- What is the going hourly rate for camera operation (xl1s, bogen / 501, no audio, Arri lighting kit if needed)?

- What is the going hourly rate for video editing (vegas)?

Thanks!

I charge a hundred dollars a hour, and bill in one hour increments.

It varies depending on geography. An hourly rate in Manhattan is not the same as an hourly rate in Houston. You need to research your market and determine your rates accordingly (find out how much your competitors charge and go from there).

Moved from Open DV to Taking Care of Business.