New Orleans Local Empowers Indie Filmmakers with Low-Budget Contract Tips

On Sept. 26, 2024, Louisiana and Mississippi producers, directors and members attended a presentation at Robert E. Nims Center Studios in New Orleans to learn about SAG-AFTRA contracts and how to cast members in their projects.

Information regarding SAG-AFTRA Low Budget Entertainment Contracts was presented on the Micro-Budget Project, Student Film, Short Project Agreement (SPA), Ultra Low Budget (UPA), Moderate Low Budget (MPA) and Low Budget Agreement (LBA).

The presentation emphasized that SAG-AFTRA has an agreement for every budget level for independent filmmakers, making it easy to cast members. Local staff can assist with sending out casting notices directly to members in Louisiana and Mississippi for free and completing an application for a SAG-AFTRA agreement costs nothing. All low-budget projects must be filmed/recorded entirely in the United States. A production’s budget, run time, script and intended exhibition/distribution are factors that determine which contract is right for a project. More information can be obtained by accessing the specific links provided above as well as this Low Budget Contract One Sheet. Information on SAG-AFTRA New Media Contracts is available here. Questions can also be directed to New Orleans Local Executive Director lisha.brock@sagaftra.org.

This event, hosted by the New Orleans Local Organizing & Outreach Committee, was a great opportunity for local filmmakers to not only get to know about SAG-AFTRA contracts, but also get to know local members. A great time was had by all who attended this networking film industry program!

Local leaders in attendance included Local President Jim Gleason; Local Vice President Billy Slaughter; Local Secretary and Organizing & Outreach Committee Chair Mike Yahn; National Board member Diana Boylston; Local Board members Ritchie Montgomery, Wayne Douglas Morgan and Sue-Lynn; and Communications Committee member Rhonda Laizer. Special thanks to member volunteers Michael Collier and Carol Ann Scruggs for their assistance as well.

Photo: SAG-AFTRA members and independent filmmakers at the September 2024 Low-Budget Contracts presentation. Photo by Rhonda Laizer.