Video Production Day Rates Guide

Based on our data from thousands of real assignments, a Director of Photography (DP) typically costs between $500 and $2,500 per day depending on experience, market, and project complexity. The median day rate is around $800-$1,200.

Audio technicians typically charge between $400 and $1,500 per day. The median rate from our dataset is around $600-$900 per day. Rates vary by city and whether the tech provides their own equipment kit.

Yes, significantly. Major markets like New York, Los Angeles, and Chicago command higher rates (often 20-40% above the national median) due to higher cost of living and stronger demand. Smaller markets may have lower rates but also less competition for bookings.

Several factors influence a film crew day rate: (1) Role — a Director of Photography commands a higher day rate than a Camera Operator or Production Assistant. (2) Market — New York and LA rates run 20-40% above the national median. (3) Experience — senior crew with broadcast credits typically charge at the upper end of their role's range. (4) Kit — crew who supply their own professional camera, audio, or lighting kit often bill a separate equipment fee on top of their day rate. (5) Project type — live events and union productions may carry overtime premiums. Our rate data reflects all of these variables across 36,000+ real bookings.

A standard day rate in video production covers a 10-hour work day. It includes the crew member's labor and basic kit (camera, audio, or lighting depending on the role). Equipment rentals, travel expenses, and overtime are usually billed separately.

Our rate data is computed from real billing records across 36,000+ crew assignments and is refreshed daily. The data reflects actual paid rates, not estimates or surveys, making it the most accurate rate guide in the industry.

Yes. Assignment Desk regularly works with international broadcasters and production companies — including BBC, ITV, Canal+, ARD, and NHK — hiring US crews for American shoots. We provide USD invoicing with VAT-compatible documentation for EU clients. Contact us via /international-productions/hire-us-camera-crew for international bookings.

Yes. The rates on this page apply to all productions shooting in the United States, regardless of where the client is based. Foreign production companies pay the same day rates as US clients. We can accept wire transfers and issue invoices in formats compatible with European accounting systems.

All rates shown are in USD (US dollars). Assignment Desk invoices in USD by default. We can provide VAT-compatible invoice documentation for EU-based clients. GBP or EUR invoicing is available on request for UK and European clients via our international productions team.