What to Charge for Your First VJ Gig | Industry Insights and Experiences

A growing number of aspiring VJs are debating what fees to charge for their initial gigs. With the claim of fair compensation on the line, one entertainer looks forward to a spot at an upcoming electronica event while navigating potential exploitation.

Setting the Stage for VJ Fees

The original poster, honing their VJ skills, plans to perform for one hour at an indoor venue, aiming for approximately $175 AUD as compensation. "I don’t want to undermine the work or remuneration of others," they noted. However, they're wary of the too-common assurance: "do the first cheap, and there’ll be more work full price later."

Notable Fee Variability

Insights from various forums point to significant fee variability among VJs:

• Most standard fees rest around $50 AUD per hour for basic setups.

• A VJ from New Zealand stated fees could hit $400 NZD for an entire night, reflecting clear regional differences.

• New comments suggest charging for equipment use, such as projectors, alongside potential gear insurance for peace of mind.

Interestingly, one user shared their experience with gig compensation ranging from percentages of the band’s earnings, with $150 being the highest received, down to experiences paying only $50 in smaller venues. "Stay strong, know your worth, and be aware of your client’s budget," they advised.

Experiences and Expectations

Responses have ranged from enthusiastic advice to stark realism:

"If you get more, I get more" - a sentiment that underlines the necessity of clear communication regarding fees.

Another commented on the trial-and-error aspect of starting:

"Don't charge $500 to find out what this plugin does live." This highlights a common challenge among new VJs grappling with technical difficulties during initial performances.

Despite mixed views, many users agree that anyone starting out should firmly ask for a fair fee and should not settle for less than $50 per hour, particularly if they are putting in serious effort.

The Push for Fair Pay

The sentiment surrounding fair compensation is only growing. The real challenge for new VJs seems to be balancing experience with genuine payment. The goal remains to secure a foothold in a competitive environment.

Key Takeaways

• ◈ Pay ranges typically from $50 AUD to $175 AUD, contingent on setup and effort.

• ◈ Users emphasize the value of honesty when discussing fees with promoters.

• ◈ Experience is a double-edged sword: while free gigs can build skills, they can also lead to unrealistic future job expectations.

As the community discusses rates and experiences, a movement towards fair pay continues to solidify, suggesting a shift toward equitable treatment in the entertainment landscape.

Looking Ahead

Experts predict that aspiring VJs will increasingly unite to establish standard rates, as conversations about fair pay gain momentum. In the coming year, expect to see more VJs advocating for their worth, potentially leading to a concerted effort for better compensation practices. With social media platforms facilitating these discussions, the prospect of collaboration amongst newcomers could reshape industry norms.