Colourist freelance rates breakdown
Colourists play a vital role in the Film & Motion industry, ensuring visual consistency and creating the perfect mood through colour grading. Understanding what influences their rates can help both clients and freelancers make informed decisions.
Factors that increase rates
- Years of experience in high-end productions
- Expertise with premium colour grading software (DaVinci Resolve, Baselight)
- Portfolio featuring renowned brands or productions
- Specialisation in specific genres (feature films, commercials, music videos)
- Advanced technical skills (HDR grading, RAW workflow management)
- Own suite or equipment provision
Factors that decrease rates
- Early career stage
- Limited experience with professional software
- Working on smaller-scale projects
- Remote work only
- Limited knowledge of advanced colour science
Rate discussion tips
- Clearly outline project scope, including footage duration and format
- Discuss technical requirements early (HDR, multiple deliverables)
- Consider timeline flexibility for better rates
- Be transparent about revision rounds included
- Discuss equipment and facility requirements upfront
Common pricing models
Colourists typically charge day rates, particularly for studio-based work. Hourly rates are less common but may apply for shorter sessions or remote work. Project-based pricing might be offered for longer productions or series work.
Service types and pricing variations
- Primary colour grading (standard service)
- Advanced colour correction and matching
- Look development and creative grading
- On-set colour supervision (premium service)
- Colour workflow consultation
- Training and workflow setup (higher rates)
- Remote grading sessions
How YunoJuno simplifies the process
Our platform streamlines collaboration between colourists and clients by providing transparent pricing, verified profiles, and secure payment processes. We ensure both parties can focus on the creative aspects while we handle the administrative elements. Our extensive network includes experienced colourists across various specialisations, making it easier to find the perfect match for your project needs.
