SAG New Media Contract: What It Is and Why It Matters

If you are a performer who is looking to break into the world of new media, it’s important that you become familiar with the SAG New Media Contract. This contract is designed to protect the rights of actors who perform in digital media productions, such as web series, online commercials, and short films. Here’s what you need to know about the SAG New Media Contract:

What is the SAG New Media Contract?

The SAG New Media Contract is a union agreement established by the Screen Actors Guild (SAG) that sets the terms and conditions for performers working in digital media productions. This contract was created to ensure that actors who work in new media are treated fairly, and that their creative contributions to these productions are recognized and compensated appropriately.

What does the SAG New Media Contract cover?

The SAG New Media Contract covers a variety of important issues related to new media productions, including:

– Compensation: Actors who work under this contract are entitled to receive compensation for their work, including minimum rates for their time and any residuals that may be earned from the use of their work.

– Rights: The contract outlines the rights that performers have to their work, including the right to credit, the right to control the use of their image, and the right to approve the final cut of a production.

– Safety: The contract also includes provisions for safety on set, including measures to ensure that actors are not put in danger during the production process.

– Duration: The SAG New Media Contract covers productions that are released on various digital platforms, including streaming services, web platforms, and mobile apps.

Why is the SAG New Media Contract important?

The SAG New Media Contract is important for several reasons. First, it ensures that performers are compensated fairly for their contributions to new media productions. This is especially important as more and more productions move online, where actors may not receive the same level of compensation as they would for traditional film or television work.

Second, the contract provides protections for performers that are not always present in other types of digital media work. For example, the right to approve the final cut of a production is an important safeguard for actors who want to ensure that their work is represented accurately and in a way that aligns with their values.

Finally, the SAG New Media Contract helps to establish standards for new media productions, which can help to raise the bar for quality and professionalism in this growing industry.

Conclusion

As a performer working in new media, it’s important that you understand your rights and protections under the SAG New Media Contract. By familiarizing yourself with this agreement, you can ensure that you are fairly compensated for your work, and that your creative contributions are recognized and respected in the digital space.