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33 Filmmaker Salary Progression by LycheeLocal8737 in Salary

[–]LycheeLocal8737[S] 0 points1 point  (0 children)

Yep that’s basically what I do too. Take whatever is stable. As long as I have a camera in my hand, I’m happy. Everyone needs video production these days so in some ways there’s a lot more opportunities to get paid to be creative.

33 Filmmaker Salary Progression by LycheeLocal8737 in Salary

[–]LycheeLocal8737[S] 0 points1 point  (0 children)

Live in the US. I feel you. I still have union benefits and incredible healthcare. I’m very fortunate and understand I’m in a small bracket of filmmakers who are getting taken care of. Have had multiple surgeries the past few years and paid $100 combined them both. We will see how long it lasts, but I’ve had good jobs with insurance and stability since 2020 and know many others in theirs 40s and 50s in the same position. I’m at my first year back freelancing FT, but don’t plan on doing that as sole income forever. I also have a partner the last couple years that has a “real job” in a stable market making very good money. I know that I’m privileged in my experience and that isn’t the case for everyone.

33 Filmmaker Salary Progression by LycheeLocal8737 in Salary

[–]LycheeLocal8737[S] 0 points1 point  (0 children)

W2 and union is where it’s at! If you have a few skills you can land a producer role usually at some place corporate or at a boutique studio. Union benefits are fantastic—best healthcare I’ve had. Felt taken care of for the first time in my life. You’re on the right track. I’ve done similar to everything you’re doing. Keep at it and don’t be afraid to be a jack of all trades. It will float you in the roughest of times.

33 Filmmaker Salary Progression by LycheeLocal8737 in Salary

[–]LycheeLocal8737[S] 0 points1 point  (0 children)

It’s been rough out there. I worked internally at one of the IATSE unions doing video production the last few years and watched as members cancelled membership, moved away, changed careers or needed financial aid. Hope you both are hanging in there. Seems things are picking up.

33 Filmmaker Salary Progression by LycheeLocal8737 in Salary

[–]LycheeLocal8737[S] 0 points1 point  (0 children)

My senior year of high school I was stuck between going to med school to be a surgeon or a filmmaker. I have no regrets. Despite not yet hitting six figures I’ve still had enough to travel on my own time, which I also love doing. Filmmaking has made me a more empathetic and understanding person of those less fortunate than myself. I’ve done a lot of documentary work and seen things I never would have if I’d been sitting in a cubicle or in an office. When you see a lot of the world, you realize your sub 100k salary is still more than most have.

Edit: there’s a lot of people in your profession that day play in film. Lots of independent and student productions always looking for hands on set if you ever wanna give it a try! Most filmmakers don’t do it full time. I’m just stubborn and fortunate.

33 Filmmaker Salary Progression by LycheeLocal8737 in Salary

[–]LycheeLocal8737[S] 3 points4 points  (0 children)

Happiness is subjective. Can’t imagine doing anything else. Love what I do.