So, Im seeing people posting about rates for makeup artistry and that they choose to charge less than others. Not wanting to overcharge is totally admirable - it shows honesty and care for their clients. That I applaud. Heres where I run into a problem though - if someone chooses to charge less than industry standard, and knows that theyre charging less than industry standard, they are thereby intentionally undercutting other artists. Industry standard rates exist for a reason - to ensure that people are being paid fairly for their time and materials, and to set a standard minimum that clients can expect to pay for the work. Charging below that standard not only affects the ability of other artists in the market to work, but sets a lower standard of expectations for the market, which can result in out-of-market artists being brought in to fill jobs which could otherwise go to locals. Additionally, Ive heard the incorrect assumption that artists are charging based off the cost/quality of the materials they are using. While materials cost certainly figures into establishing a payment rate, I dont know anyone who charges more just because they use a certain brand. A client is not only paying for the materials used, but also the expertise and experience of an artist, and the rate is commensurate with the amount of experience that artist has. Someone who is just starting out will absolutely charge less than someone with ten to fifteen years experience in the industry. Indeed, newer artists will frequently book a large amount of TFP work before being at a point where they are able to confidently charge a regular rate. However, those beginning rates must be held to a standard to ensure that everyone gets paid what theyre worth. This is why unions exist as well - they set a standard expectation and standard for payment, so no one gets underpaid. This is also why communication, collaboration, and community amongst artists is vital - if we arent all on the same page, we will all fail. A rising tide raises all, folks.
Posted on: Thu, 10 Apr 2014 19:22:45 +0000
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