So I went to my first Filmthrill.ca networking event last night. It was fabulous although I drank entirely too much and undoubtedly made a fool of myself at times.
It was great to see a large group of independent filmmakers, producers, writers, actors, composers and musicians get together to talk shop, have a few drinks and make some new friends. As a musician in amongst the film and tv peeps it was a bit odd because I don't know the ins and out of the latest cameras, or the name of the editor who worked on art film "x". What I do know is that it as government grants dry up, and the economy goes down the toilet, there's going to be less and less funding to allow these artists to make their films, and therefore less work for people in the composing music for film game.
These leads to a few thoughts about freelancing. Freelancers are possibly the bottom of the barrel when it comes to getting paid on a gig. I can't count how many people asked what my rate for composition was last night, and then followed that up with "what would you think about working for credit?". I'm at the stage in my career where I'm not opposed to working for credit on film and TV work as I get my name, and my work, out there. I'm even less opposed to working for credit when everyone on the project is doing it voluntarily "for the art". But what surprises me is people working on a project, whether it be a live performance, webgig, or film or television where some of the principles are getting paid and some are not. If directors, editors, promoters, soundguys, etc. are getting paid, then why would someone expect me to work for free?
As I delve deeper into the freelance world, it is something that puzzles me exceedingly. But at least someone has made a funny video about it.
Good video ... here's an article on the subject sent to me by a photo school friend.
http://www.wheelsandwax.com/v4/2009/02/a-company-approaches-you-for-free-photos/
Posted by: Danielle | May 30, 2009 at 08:51 AM