Actors should never work for free. This is not to be confused with the idea that actors should get money every time they perform. If you think of currency only in terms of dollars you are really short-changing yourself.
I’ve often noticed that the technical crew and some directors look at actors as being dispensable. Crew will rarely work unless money is involved. It's something about equipment that makes some of them think they are more important than actors.
Fokus Firm on set.
The amount of money it takes to produce a film has decreased significantly since the technology boom. So, now everyone is an indie filmmaker or a content producer. This means that there is a bigger need for actors and personalities. Although there are a lot of “actors” also, it doesn't mean you have to be reduced to nothing. Here are 5 things I would ask for if I’m not being paid money for my acting services.
Ask for at least 30 seconds of footage to create a reel. Give the director a hard drive to put your footage on. Offer to sign an NDA so you don't ruin the premiere of the film, so you can at least use your footage in a private capacity before the film is officially released.
If you are a main character, ask to be on a poster on promo material. A producer needs you to help promote and should be willing to make the compromise.
Access to any photos or behind the scene footage with you in it. Social proof is important these days. With social media - it’s difficult to tell who’s really doing what they say they do.
Food. If they have you there all day, the least they can do is feed you.
If you are the main character and they are not paying you money - ask for equity in the film. Think of it as a tech company. If you’re an advisor, they’ll give you 2% equity or stock. Content never dies. You never know what it will be worth in the future. Plus them giving you equity ensures that you will promote the project like it's your own.
Bonus - Leverage your acting to barter with the producer or director. Maybe the director has a location that you can use for your own project. Maybe they have access to lower grade equipment that you would like to use for a weekend. As long as it's ethical - there are endless things that can be traded.
Please watch our Award Winning Short Film “Allergies”
In a world where people can be allergic to different races, a mother struggles with the possibility that her bi-racial son may be developing an allergy.