FAQs
How much does a budget cost?
If you're looking for an estimate for a commercial, industrial or a feature second-unit shoot, those are FREE and completed quickly. If you need a full feature film budget, those are priced competitively and depend upon the complexity of the script.
Do I have to pay residuals on talent?
If you use SAG-AFTRA talent there will be residual payments based on usage. These costs can be managed by knowing specifically what the intended usage will be, so we don't commit to more than is necessary. If the talent is non-SAG-AFTRA, we work to secure a buyout fee that fits within the production budget. Echelon knows the street rates and is more likely to negotiate lower fees.
I only need a couple of things in the U.S. and I have a really small budget. What can you do?
Echelon rarely turns anybody away for financial reasons. We are very loyal to our crew and our vendors all over the U.S. and we like to keep them working. Even if we decide not to proceed with your project, we'll do our best to point you in the right direction.
What about visas to come to the United States?
We have a lot of experience in this area as many of our clients are from outside the USA. Our legal specialists arrange for work visas if they are needed. We won't waste your time and money on anything unnecessary.
If you're based in New York, why should I hire you for a shoot in Florida?
Because we're better than anyone in Florida. Our philosophy is to service your needs and save you time and money in the process. Echelon knows who to use for everything, and we have accounts set up with all the best vendors. Your bottom line price will be met and you'll have a much better time working with us!
Isn't it expensive to shoot in New York?
Depends what you're shooting. Most production resources are about the same as you're used to paying in other cities in the world. There are many opportunities for saving money in New York if you know where to find them; and we do. Echelon has negotiated rates with many hotels and equipment vendors. Police assistance is free and filming permit fees are low. These savings (and many others) are passed on to you. Paying exceedingly close attention to detail also enables us to work with smaller, more efficient crews, thus stretching your production dollar as far as it can go.
Can I shoot in New York with a non-union crew?
We have shot hundreds of projects in New York with both union and non-union crews. We have excellent relationships with outstanding, highly skilled technicians.
I have a project with multiple locations, some are in the middle of nowhere. How would you handle this?
We can move an army by train, plane, automobile, or pack mule. Whether your locations are in the mountains, the desert, an island or an urban jungle Echelon knows what to pack and how to get it there.