Royalties
Royalties are ongoing payments to rights holders each time their work is used commercially — distinct from residuals, though both represent continuing compensation from the use of creative work.
SAG-AFTRA Health Insurance
SAG-AFTRA Health Insurance is the union’s healthcare benefit program funded by producer contributions — available to performers who earn above an annual minimum threshold in covered union productions.
Take-or-Pay
Take-or-Pay is a contract provision requiring a studio to pay a performer’s full fee regardless of whether the project proceeds — protecting talent who commit to a project against the risk of cancellation.
Ultra Low Budget
Ultra Low Budget is the lowest SAG-AFTRA theatrical feature film tier — for productions at or below approximately $250,000 — offering the most reduced union minimums to make professional casting accessible.
Digital Camera
A Digital Camera captures images as digital data rather than on film — the dominant professional production format since the early 2000s, transforming cinematography through immediate playback and reduced costs.
Earpiece
An Earpiece is a small audio device worn to receive direction, cues, or communications during live performances and productions — essential for performers and crew in live television and events.
Gels
Gels are thin colored or diffusion sheets placed in front of lighting instruments to modify their color, quality, or intensity — a fundamental tool in film and theater lighting design.
Grip Equipment
Grip Equipment refers to the specialized tools and hardware used by the grip department — dollies, tracks, C-stands, flags, and mounting hardware — to position and control cameras and lighting.
Kit Rental
A Kit Rental is an additional fee paid to crew members for the use of their personal professional equipment — a daily or weekly supplement to their base rate compensating for gear they bring to the production.
Steadicam
A Steadicam is a camera stabilization system worn by a trained operator that produces smooth, fluid camera movement — enabling flowing shots through complex environments without tracks or a dolly.