US Camera Crew Day Rates

Current US crew labour rates for Australian productions filming in America. All rates in USD. Invoicing via SWIFT bank transfer or ACH — no US entity required.

2026 Day Rates (USD, Labour Only)

US Role	Australian Equivalent	Day Rate (USD)	Notes
Director of Photography	Director of Photography	$900–$2,400	Includes Sony FX9 package for staff DPs
Camera Operator	Camera Operator / Videographer	$650–$1,400	B-cam, ENG support, live event
Sound Recordist	Sound Recordist / Audio Technician	$600–$1,200	Boom, IFB, comms, multi-mic live
Gaffer	Gaffer / Lighting Director	$550–$1,100	Lighting for doc, corporate, branded
Grip	Grip / G&E	$500–$900	Rigging, lighting support, dolly
Field Producer	Field Producer / Segment Producer	$700–$1,500	Story logistics, talent, script

Labour rates only · Equipment quoted separately (unless booking a staff DP with Sony FX9 package) · IATSE union crew available on request · Rates may vary by market

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Market Rate Variations

Rates vary by US market. New York and Los Angeles carry the highest premiums — relevant for ABC correspondents, Nine USA bureau, and entertainment coverage. Augusta and Florida event markets may carry seasonal surcharges during major sporting events.

New York City

15–25% premium over national average

Los Angeles

15–25% premium over national average

Washington D.C.

10–15% premium, particularly during peak news periods

Chicago

10% premium over national average

Augusta, GA (Masters)

Event surcharge may apply during tournament week

Other US markets

Base rates — no premium

Invoicing and Payment

Currency and Payment Methods

All invoices are issued in USD. Australian broadcasters typically pay via SWIFT international wire transfer (recommended) or US ACH if your company has a US dollar account. We do not require a US entity or US ABN equivalent on your end.

What Is Not Included

Camera, audio, and lighting equipment are quoted separately unless you are booking a staff DP — those crew members carry a company-owned Sony FX9 package included in their day rate. Travel, accommodation, and per diem are added for shoots outside the crew's home market.

IATSE Union Rates

IATSE union crew rates are higher than non-union rates and vary by local charter. If your production requires IATSE-affiliated crew (common for ABC co-productions or Nine productions under certain broadcast agreements), specify at enquiry time and we will quote accordingly.

GST and Australian Tax

Assignment Desk is a US company — invoices do not include GST. Your AU finance team will need to classify the payment as an imported service for GST purposes. We can provide a W-9 form (US tax ID) for your accounts department on request.

Ready to Get a Quote?

Submit your shoot details and we will send a full crew quote — including day rates, equipment, and travel — within 2 hours on US weekdays.

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