If you missed the chance to attend this lively session at LDI 2024 in Las Vegas, don’t worry—here’s a recap! Recorded live on December 9, 2024, this Artistic Finance podcast explored career finances for entertainment professionals across multiple disciplines. Hosted by me--Ethan Steimel, a lighting designer and the host of Artistic Finance.
Our stellar panelists included:
Christina Watanabe – Theatrical lighting designer
Mike Grabowski – Television lighting designer
Zach Borovay – Media and projection designer
Seán Linehan – Gaffer for television
This dynamic group offered real-world advice on financial habits, contracts, unions, and more, tackling topics that are often overlooked or uncomfortable to discuss.
KEY TAKEAWAYS
Financial Decisions, Decisions
Each panelist shared a pivotal financial decision they’ve made that others should consider. Responses ranged from setting up LLCs for liability and tax benefits to embracing W2 income opportunities (rather than freelance gigs) for financial stability.
Workflow
We explored common financial tools and practices:
Managing 1099 income and paying quarterly taxes. Freelancers have to create their own system (aka spreadsheet) to track gigs so they know when they don’t get paid, or when the don’t get sent a 1099 at tax time. Not getting a 1099 is okay, but be sure to report the income on your taxes because the IRS will get that report.
Tracking 1099 forms using the IRS’s online portal (pro tip: use ID.me credentials!)
Setting up retirement accounts tailored to freelancers, such as SEP IRAs and solo 401(k)s, not to mention the “anyone can do it” ROTH IRA.
Contracts
An audience member commented and emphasized the importance of putting everything in writing for contracts, even things that don’t go into the contract, as this sets expectations and provides a reference point for future communication. Christina Watanabe highlighted the efficiency of making clear statements and asking for confirmation in writing. Proactive communication saves time and money and let’s those your working with have an easier time confirming your expectations.
A hot topic was kit fees, with comparisons between theatre ($25/day starting point suggested by Ethan for theatre gigs) and film ($300/day typical). I walked through calculating a reasonable kit fee based on expenses like software, hardware, and overhead.
We also touched on unions. For USA 829 members, I clarified the process for entering through the LORT Design Membership Candidate (DMC) program, encouraging assistants to advocate for their inclusion on union contracts, even if the producer doesn’t lead with a USA 829 contract. You have every right to request one.
Audience Q&A
Our audience asked about everything from negotiating rates to navigating LORT (League of Resident Theaters) contracts. Notable insights included:
Breaking down contracts with line items for better transparency. Instead of listening “design fee,” include line items like site visits, drafting, script analysis, cue list creation, etc.
Leveraging unions to ensure fair pay and working conditions - even without being a member of USA 829 or IATSE, you can find rates online, or ask peers for market rates.
Using IRS online to find your 1099 records or Social Security online to see what you can expect for income in retirement.
Agents - not a bad idea but no one on the panel had an overly loving relationship with their agent. Currently none of the panelists have a need for an agent.
Conclusion
The session wrapped up with advice on advocating for yourself, separating “worker you” from “business you,” and tackling financial conversations with confidence. Panelists encouraged attendees to support unions and actively participate because members are the ones who shape collective bargaining agreements.
FINAL THOUGHTS
This was a session full of both laughs and practical advice, blending the lighthearted with the unavoidable realities of navigating a creative career. Huge thanks to the panelists and to our Q&A moderators, lighting designers Darius Evans and Adian Yuen.
For the full episode, including more audience Q&A and insights that couldn’t fit into this article, visit artisticfinance.com/181.
If you enjoyed this recap, join us at LDI 2025 for more Artistic Finance live panels where you, the audience, helps shape the conversation!
Check out all the Artistic Finance podcasts on Live Design Online.