Event Videography pricing
 

I have received some requests to videotape events. I was wondering what a reasonable hourly rate would be for just the taping. Most of them would be one camera, with no editing involved (they just want a basic recording of the event). I would just hand them over the raw footage as is.

$35 to $50 per hour?

Depends on area:

In Seattle, we hired two videographers to film a dance recital, and the quotes we got from people for exactly what you're saying was $100-$125 per recorded hour for each cameraman.

-Brent

$50-$250 per hour depending on where you live and your skill level, as well as camera.

So I guess if you get an amateur friend (no equipment) to help out, do you pay him $10 per hour? $20?

If all he does is hit the record button and makes sure the camera doesn't run out of batteries, $10 an hour seems reasonable for unskilled labour.

It would be videotaped using an XL-1 with professional tripod. Also, should it be extra if I provided a wireless mic for the person who's speaking? My guess would be no, but what do you guys think?

It depends on your agreement with the client. If you agree on a set price for everything, then you pay for the mic. If you tell them that your rate does not cover extra expenses, then tell them upfront they will be covering the cost of getting the mic.

I guess much of this depends on whether you already own the mic, or you are going to rent it for the shoot. If you own it, it might not be worth even bringing up.