A career in Georgia's creative industry can be extremely rewarding. Many people tend to romanticize jobs in the industry, for it is an industry that rewards creativity and individuality. However, it is called a job for a reason. Hard work, perseverance, and an impeccable creative product culminate in a lucrative, fulfilling career in the creative industry.The subjectivity of the industry can lead to difficulty and frustration when deciding what is "fair" and how much you should charge for your creativity. What does a Key Make-Up Artist bill? What about a Copywriter, Set Designer, or Key Grip? What's a Best Boy, and can I become one if I am a girl? (If you need to ask, please don't apply).
When evaluating a job, a "day rate" can be used as an objective measure of pay. The following list reflects comparative day rates, compensation for an eight hour workday, unless otherwise noted. The rates do not include overtime. Many of the extra expenses which some of these jobs incur are also not included (i.e. shop rates, kit rentals, equipment, materials, transportation, etc.)
For many purchasers and sellers of creativity, the question is not, "What is fair?" The question many times is, "What will the market bear?" Creativity is a commodity. It is bought and sold, subject to the market laws of supply and demand, the seller's ability to accurately adjust volume and margin, and a purchaser's market savvy. It is important to realize that most jobs require practical experience and education, and all require a willingness to work hard. Market forces, experience, and availability cause rates to fluctuate. The low end of the scale represents pay for a creative with minimal experience, while the high end describes compensation for a specialist in the field. Specialists usually have many years of experience, technical expertise, and excellent reputations and references.
Special thanks to the industry professionals who provided this valuable information and brought objectivity and fairness to a highly subjective topic for your use. And remember, creative talent in Georgia means business, no subjectivity there.