NYC Photog Positions

[5600K]

It's possible my gf may be getting a job in Manhattan. So, I am about to start a job search for stations in NY. What do the stations pay? Openings? Thanks in advance for any suggestions.

[soonershooter]

Sorry to bust your bubble, but I don't think any of the "stations" in the NYC area have hired a staffer in years. There is a pool of freelance talent available, and they pay 'em a day rate and hire on an "as we need 'em" basis. You'll have to somehow "get on the list" of the freelancers.

I live in North Carolina--anyone who can augment or contradict the above PLEASE weigh in.

[Sprite]

Very close to impossible if you're from out of state, or don't "know someone". Unaffordable living, and no benefits.

[Sprite]

More...
Most staffers I work along side with are all pushing 50. They've been around for years, and they're not going anywhere.
Freelancers here are mostly young, single, and have no lives or anyone to come home to. It's a difficult life, and like I said, no benefits. Health insurance will run you $350+/month here. That could be rent in any other city.
But freelancing appears to be the new way because it's cheaper for a company to hire a freelancer than to pay a staff salary + OT + benefits.

[5600K]

Thanks for the advice. I may have a couple ways to get in. First off, I work at an O&O. That may or may not work in my favor - if I want to stay w/ the current network. Plus, I do know someone at one of the stations. So, I'll have to speak to him. As for the cost of living, I am well aware, as I have family and friends already living in NYC and make the commute up there - often (been taking the Chinatown buses for $20 round trip!). I may have to get a real job if I move up there (or possibly start my own business). Thanks!

[Icarus112277]

There is some staff work in NYC, but stations are hard to get into.

On the other hand there is a ton of work outside of news if you have any experience or the motivation to get some. MANY broadcast/cable shows shoot here, and there are always concerts, awards shows, and a tone of sports to be shot. The market is huge.

That being said, the talent pool is large, extremely talented, and already int he door.

You may need to take a job that is not exactly what you want in order to keep working and building up a network to jump to something better.

I don't know of any photog openings as of the moment. But if you have the interest (or patience) to learn the Chyron Duet, I hear that NEP is in DESPERATE need of someon for their upcoming ESPN Classic show. So desperate they might pay more than they need to, and might be willing to pay for a motivated individual to take the classes in Melville, NY.

As for pay- staff= 60+ depending on show/experience. News should be 75+, with plenty of OT at most anything you do. Most places are good with meal penalties too.

Freelance should be at LEAST 325, averaging about 450/10. Some of the better guys get quite a bit more.

I don't think working at an O&O will help you, but knowing someone may. Knowing may people is even better. Resume tape is good to have, but doubtful anyone will watch it unless someone gives you a great recommend where a position is open...and then they might not watch it either.

[ May 16, 2005, 07:38 PM: Message edited by: Icarus112277 ]