Issue link: https://digital.copcomm.com/i/1530033
78 SAG-AFTRA | Fall/Winter 2024 | sagaftra.org Sound? Speed. Signatory! One piece of advice Sroka has for those eager to begin producing their own projects is to write with an eye to keeping the budget low, and think about where you will shoot. "Keep location, location, location in mind," he says. "Ask yourself, 'Can I get this? Do I have to pay for this?'" Sroka and Hartley used their own home as one of the locations to keep costs down. "Among the great joys of doing your own film is being able to hire your friends and watch them work," Sroka remarks. "And, most importantly, if you're going to be shooting in your home — with dozens of cast and crew — have a plumber standing by." Even though you may be looking at all available ways to stay within your budget, both Sroka and Bass say it's a good idea to hire a company to handle payroll. "There are so many companies that handle payroll for very little cost," Bass says, as he goes on to lament the challenges he had calculating withholdings and state and federal taxes on his own. "The biggest thing I learned is I don't want to ever run payroll myself again." For many agreements, unless you're using one of the contracts that allows deferred payment, you'll submit all paychecks to your cast no later than the Thursday or Friday following the week worked and, upon request, copies to your SAG-AFTRA business representative. Additionally, you'll need to submit a Pension and Health Contribution form and the corresponding contributions to the pension and retirement plans. Ask Your Contracts/Claims Representative! During the signatory process — unless you're using the Micro-Budget Project Agreement — you'll be assigned one or more contracts/claims representatives who will be there to answer questions during production and post-production. This individual will address all the contract-related questions and issues that come up before and during filming and throughout post-production. Don't let the "claims" title alarm you. They aren't the IRS! They'll be able to answer questions about compensation for fittings, rest period requirements, travel pay and more. Strike the Set, Get Those Requirements Met! After principal photography has concluded and the cast and crew have been treated to a well-deserved wrap party, there will be a few final documents you'll need to send to the union. Usually, these documents will include a final cast list, a casting data report form, a final signed copy of all actor contracts and production time reports. This paperwork will change depending on which agreement you're using. Staying organized throughout the process is important, but, if needed, your rep is there for you so don't hesitate to reach out! Don't forget pension and health contributions! In general, when you pay performers, you pay pension and health. These contributions go to a separate organization from SAG-AFTRA. For more information on the SAG-AFTRA Health Plan and SAG-Producers Pension Plan, visit: sagaftraplans.org. Before We Fade to Black All four SAG-AFTRA members who discussed their projects for this feature lauded the low-budget agreements for giving them a chance to make opportunities for themselves and their fellow union members. Aala, who made her series because she wanted to see a Filipina lead in a romantic comedy, says, "I always believe that you should create opportunities for yourself." She adds, "I think it's important to showcase different things that are not currently on your reel. We're all waiting for that big film or TV role. Do something while you're waiting. That way you're making something happen." Sroka's advice for members who decide to begin the process of producing their own project? "Stick to it," he says. "And this is the main thing: Stick with it, believe in your project and keep going." He shares that he's received a number of rejections throughout the years, but, "You only need a few yeses." The aspect of the process that was easiest for all producers was becoming a union signatory. "The union will help you out," Hartley says. "And guide you and make it all possible, and it's worth it." ● 78 SAG-AFTRA | Fall/Winter 2024 | sagaftra.org SAG-AFTRA members Hillary Anne Matthews, Mariette Hartley, Morgan Fairchild and Tess Harper in the Ultra Low Budget Project Our (Almost Completely True) Love Story. TIM HENNESSEY/LONG STORY SHORT PICTURES