For film/TV students: what’s the realistic cost creep in spring (equipment rentals, materials, transportation, festival submissions)? My student keeps telling me ‘it’s not that expensive’ and then there’s another fee. What should families budget for that’s not obvious?
For film and TV students at NYU, the costs associated with production can escalate quickly, often exceeding initial estimates. It is crucial for families to understand the various expenses that may not be immediately apparent.
Equipment Rentals Students face a mandatory equipment insurance fee of approximately $879 per semester. Additional costs arise from renting specialized equipment, which can range from $54 per day for basic cameras to hundreds for advanced lighting setups.
Materials and Supplies The estimated cost for books and supplies is around $735 per semester, but specific project needs can significantly increase this figure.
Transportation Costs While on-campus transportation is estimated at $2,366 annually, filming on location can add substantial costs for transporting equipment and crew.
Festival Submission Fees Submission fees vary widely, with smaller festivals charging around $20-$25, while larger festivals like Tribeca can exceed $80 per submission, leading to high cumulative costs if multiple festivals are targeted.
Non-Obvious Budget Items Families should also consider:
- Production design and props
- Hiring professional actors, which includes contracts and travel costs
- Location fees and permits for shooting in NYC
- Food for cast and crew during production
- A contingency fund for unexpected expenses
- Potential crowdfunding gaps, as many students still require additional funding beyond what is raised.