What is SAG Ultra Low Budget?

For independent filmmakers considering a short film project on a low budget but who still wish to hire union film crews, SAG Ultra Low Budget Project Agreements are a unique opportunity. Say you’re considering an ultra low budget film. One that will run under $300,000 and ideally ranges in between $100,000 and $200,000. You would […]
What Is Copyright Clearance & How Does it Work for Filmmakers?

As a filmmaker, clearing copyrights through the copyright clearance center (CCC) is something that will almost certainly come up at some point. Clearing copyrights through the CCC represents a unique process for filmmakers. But what is copyright clearance exactly? The Copyright Clearance Center (CCC) represents a nonprofit organization that was formed in 1977 out of […]
What’s Included in a Reality TV Collaboration Agreement?

If you’re filming a reality television series, you’re going to need to take steps in advance to protect yourself. In fact, before you can begin filming you’re going to need a reality TV collaboration agreement. Filmmaking, even producing a reality TV show, requires proper permissions. As well as agreement forms to be signed prior to […]
Can an Actor Sign a Release Form Days After Shooting?

Signed actor release forms are an integral part of any commercial film shoot. They provide a unique agreement between the actors and the filmmaker. This allows filmed footage of a performance to be utilized in various capacities and without potential legal repercussions. Without signed actor release forms, the performance you film does not technically belong […]
Negotiating a Production Company Location Agreement
Negotiating a Production Company Location Agreement Selecting a location and negotiating a production company location agreement is certainly a challenge many filmmakers find to be daunting. But it doesn’t have to be. In fact, negotiating a production company location agreement is an important step of the planning process in regards to preparing for a film […]
Can You Get Rights to a Person’s Life Story in a Film?
Can You Get Rights to a Person’s Life Story in a Film? Acquiring the rights to use a person’s life story in a film is an important step that some filmmakers opt to consider and others veer away from. The process can be complicated and messy. And typically requires the supportive assistance of legal counsel. […]
Does a Film Permit or Location Agreement in Las Vegas Cost Money?

The city of Las Vegas, like many cities throughout the United States, is rather welcoming to film crews. Especially those seeking to bring production into the city. Many cities welcome filmmaking as a means of driving revenues for their local lodging, stores, and the community as a whole. However, acquiring a film permit or location […]
How to Negotiate a Successful Film or Video Location Agreement for a Hotel

Figuring out how to negotiate a successful film or video location agreement for a hotel is certainly an important step of the planning process. It should be handled during pre-production. But what’s the process like? Many who haven’t ever worked with a hotel owner or property manager before wonder what the process is like in […]
When Should Actors Sign Release Forms?

A signed actor release form represents a written, formal agreement between the actor and the filmmaker. This transfers ownership of a filmed performance to the filmmaker. These forms represent an integral part of the agreement made between an actor and a filmmaker. Without signed actor release forms, filmmakers face an uphill battle when it comes […]
Who Negotiates the Location Agreement for a Film Shoot?

The location agreement is an important contract that is a requirement for just about any private property film shoot. It represents a formal, written agreement made between the location owner or manager. As well as those who seek to utilize the location or lease it for the purpose of a film shoot or some other […]