I'm working on a payment deferred basis to compose some music and do some sound design for a 7-8 minute trailer for a new TV show that will be pitched to networks. This is the first time I've done something like this and the first time I've worked with this particular person. We have agreed that I will be credited as "Original Music By" and I would receive a copy of the final scenes for my reel.

My question is, how should I go about setting up an agreement on the payment as I am only getting paid if the show makes some money. I'm fine with this as I'm just starting out - but should I set an exact price? Do I set up when and under what circumstances I'd get paid, and get this in writing and signed by both parties?

Also, if everything went really well and the show got picked up and turned into a pilot or a series - should I also get an agreement that I'd be taken on as the music composer for the series?

I want to get all of this agreed upon and settled - without being too pushy or overbearing with contracts, etc.

Any advice is greatly appreciated!

Thanks

I presume the camera people, actors, writers and editors are also not getting a bean for doing this, and are on a promise also...

There is no way you can be on contract to be involved in a show or record having just completed a demo, let a lone a pilot episode. There will be decisions taken higher up with regards to all aspects of any show, including the actors, writers etc etc...no one goes looking for funding saying these people must also be on the payroll.

Once a show is given the go ahead, and the money is down for a series thats a different matter of course - but you might find yourself only down for the first run anyhow.

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Thanks! I appreciate the input. I've completed the music at this point and the editing process is under way so I'll see where it goes.

-Mike