Hello,

I'm trying to find out how much it would cost to hire a Betacam or MiniDV camera operator and an audio grip and a lighting grip for 12 weeks.

Anyone know where I can find this info?

thanks

Would this be with gear provided or operators(s) providing gear? As DV shooters, a few friends of mine and myself charge 300.00 for ten hours per day, then time and a half at 12 hours, then double time for 12 and over. Beta usually goes for 400.00 at for the same terms. I charge 200.00 per day flat rate for each DV camera (XL-1) that is used and usually rent a Beta at the best rate that is offered. The sound guys that I work with are at minimum 350.00 per day same terms as above and 150.00 flat rate for the mixer, 2 or 3 wireless lavs and a boom. I expect there would be a considerable break if it is 12 consecutive weeks of work. These rates do not include travel or meals, etc.. Visit my site and give me a call if you have any questions or need a crew.

www.jefcommunications.com

John...

James has it in the ballpark. In Hawaii the IBEW union rates are around $500/day for a cameraman plus equipment. Soundman (not a grip, by the way) is about $250 per 10-hour day plus equipment.

Betacam rental is approximately $300 to $500 a day and sound equipment including a 3-channel mixer, boom and a pair of wireless lavs, is about $250/day. DV camera might be about $250/day for a Canon XL1s. Lighting kits are extra.

Dean Sensui
Base Two Productions.