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AE Production Artist, Day Rate
I’ve searched the forums but still haven’t found something more specific (in either the AE, Broadcast, or Business). What would the average day/hourly rate (which ever is standard) be for After Effects production work doing roto and keying. This is for entry-level broadcast/music video work in Los Angeles.
Thanks.
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5 Replies
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At the risk of starting an argument over rates (almost as bad as the whole Mac vs. PC debate), in the L.A. area doing entry level roto type work I would say around $20-$30/hr.
In my experience roto work doesn’t pay THAT great, especially compared to higher level visual effects and motion graphic design.
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When I was freelancing here in NYC, good companies were paying freelance AE animators a rate of $250-$400 per 8-10 hour day based on experience. Regardless of the kind of animation. This was for strict AE work – no design. I can’t speak to anything outside that.
It may have gone up a bit, but not much. To my knowledge (based on conversations with friends who are here and in LA), most companies are still working at about this rate.
You may ask what determines that rate – what is “experience?” Part of it is speed – more experienced animators work faster because they know the tools better. But also, good sense – being able to work on your own and anticipate the needs of the client play into that as well. So even someone who knows the tools both ways to Sunday needs the experience of working for real clients and projects before they can truly become a seasoned animator.
I know that wasn’t really part of the question, but since we are talking about rate, which is often based on experience, I though I’d throw that in there.
It’s all part of the process.
Aharon Rabinowitz
Email: arabinowitz (AT) yahoo (DOT) com
All Bets Are Off Productions, Inc.
Creative Cow After Effect Podcast
Internet Killed the Video Star: A Guide to Creating Video for the Web -
BTW – outside NY and LA and other major metropolitan areas, where cost of living is a lot less, rates vary a lot.
Aharon Rabinowitz
Email: arabinowitz (AT) yahoo (DOT) com
All Bets Are Off Productions, Inc.
Creative Cow After Effect Podcast
Internet Killed the Video Star: A Guide to Creating Video for the Web -
Thanks so much for that. I’m surprised I got a response from AE-god himself. Nobody really likes to talk about this, it’s like the magicians code…
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Well, when I got started, no one was there to advise me, so I’m glad to help (at least I hope I am helping).
It’s something people are uncomfortable talking about, and I understand it. But at the same time, I think it’s time someone did, and I commend Brenden (beenyweenies) for being brave enough to put it out there.
But please none of that AE-god talk here. we are just people helping each other. There are other forums where you have to give homage, but not here.
Best,
Aharon
Aharon Rabinowitz
Email: arabinowitz (AT) yahoo (DOT) com
All Bets Are Off Productions, Inc.
Creative Cow After Effect Podcast
Internet Killed the Video Star: A Guide to Creating Video for the Web
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