When it comes to producing commercials, the choice of talent is crucial in determining the success of your project.
If you’re considering hiring actors for your commercial production, you may have heard of SAG-AFTRA, one of the most prominent performers’ unions in the entertainment industry. This blog post will walk you through the basics of hiring SAG-AFTRA union talent for your commercial production, offering valuable insights into the process and benefits of working with professional union actors.
Understanding SAG-AFTRA
SAG-AFTRA, which stands for the Screen Actors Guild-American Federation of Television and Radio Artists, is a labor union that represents a wide range of entertainment industry professionals. This includes actors, broadcasters, recording artists, and many others. In the context of commercial productions, we’ll focus on actors who are members of this union.
Why Choose SAG-AFTRA Talent?
Professionalism: SAG-AFTRA actors have demonstrated a high level of professionalism and commitment to their craft. By hiring union talent, you can expect experienced actors who understand the industry’s demands.
Versatility: SAG-AFTRA represents actors across various age groups, ethnicities, and skill sets. This diversity makes it easier to find the perfect fit for your commercial, no matter what the role may be.
Industry Standards: Union actors are well-versed in industry standards, ensuring that your production adheres to legal and ethical guidelines. This can save you from potential legal issues and complications.
The Process of Hiring SAG-AFTRA Talent
Determine Your Budget: The first step is establishing a budget for your commercial production. Various factors, including the scope of the project and the media usage, may affect SAG-AFTRA actors’ compensation.
Identify your Signatory: If you’re a production company, ad agency, or individual producer planning to work with SAG-AFTRA talent, you’ll need to become a signatory to the SAG-AFTRA Commercials Contract or hire a third-party Signatory like Coordinet to handle the Signatory responsibilities for you. Signatories agree to follow the union’s rules and standards regarding payment, working conditions, and other terms as set forth in the Commercials Contract.
Casting: You can cast SAG-AFTRA actors through casting directors, talent agencies, or open auditions. Ensure that your casting call specifies that you are looking for SAG-AFTRA actors, which will attract high-quality and experienced union talent.
Auditions and Negotiations: Once you’ve found potential actors, hold auditions to select the best fit for your project. After selecting your cast, negotiate to determine pay rates, working conditions, and other contractual obligations.
Contracts: Ensure you have detailed agreements outlining the terms and conditions of the actor’s engagement, including compensation, working hours, and any specific requirements related to the role. Include the negotiated items like travel or costumes, etc.
Union Paperwork: You must also complete the required union paperwork to report your project’s details, including cast clearance and the Performer Contracts. This paperwork is essential to maintaining compliance with SAG-AFTRA regulations.
Benefits of Working with SAG-AFTRA Talent
High-Quality Performers: SAG-AFTRA actors are renowned for their professional standards and performance excellence. Their skills and experience can elevate the quality of your commercial. SAG-AFTRA actors are reliable and committed to completing their work on time. Working with a SAG-AFTRA actor can bring your project to the next level.
Legal Compliance: By hiring union talent and adhering to union guidelines, you minimize the risk of legal issues arising from non-compliance with labor and industry standards. Coordinet can guide you through the process and ensure you stay compliant.
Access to a Pool of Talent: SAG-AFTRA represents a wide array of talented actors, giving you a broad pool of options to find the perfect fit for your commercial.
The choice of talent is crucial in commercial productions. Hiring SAG-AFTRA union talent offers numerous advantages, from professionalism and versatility to legal compliance. By following the outlined process and adhering to union guidelines, you can unlock the full potential of your commercial and ensure a high-quality end product. Working with SAG-AFTRA talent is an investment in the success of your commercial production, and it’s a choice that can make a significant difference in the final result.