What does Scale mean?
Scale refers to the minimum wage set by a union or guild for actors, writers, directors, and other creative professionals in the entertainment industry. For example, in SAG-AFTRA, scale pay represents the base salary that an actor can earn for a day or week of work on a film or TV show. The scale rate is established through union negotiations and varies depending on the type of project, budget, and distribution method. Working “at scale” means that the performer is paid the minimum wage allowed under the union contract, although some actors negotiate for higher salaries.
Example:An actor working on an independent film earns scale pay, the minimum wage set by SAG-AFTRA for the production budget category.
Example: A writer’s guild contract ensures that all screenwriters working on a major studio production are paid at least the scale rate for their work.
Did You Know?
Working “at scale” is common for actors in the early stages of their careers, though many negotiate higher pay rates as they gain experience!
You can also find “Scale” and related terms in this category: Contracts and Agreements.
