At The Real News Network (TRNN), we are committed to working with independent journalists, filmmakers, photographers, and media workers who bring depth, clarity, and justice-centered perspectives to their work. We pay fairly, set clear expectations upfront, and pay quickly upon publication—typically within days. If your pitch is accepted, you can expect a response within 10 business days.
Payment Philosophy
- Fast payment is our standard. Freelancers are paid promptly upon publication or broadcast. There are no long delays or chasing checks.
- Clarity from the start. We agree on the assignment scope, deliverables, and rate before work begins.
- We respect your labor. Kill fees, expense reimbursements, and usage rights are discussed transparently.
TEXT CONTRIBUTIONS
| Type | Description | Estimated Rate |
| Short News Article / Dispatch | 700–1,000 words | $250–$400 |
| Standard Reported Story | 1,000–1,500 words | $400–$600 |
| In-Depth Feature | 1,500–2,500+ words, often with original reporting | $600–$1,200 |
| Investigative Series or Special Assignment | Multi-part or deeply reported | $1,200–$2,000+ |
| Op-Ed / Commentary | 600–900 words, strong point of view | $200–$350 |
VIDEO CONTRIBUTIONS
| Type | Description | Estimated Rate |
| Raw Footage / B-Roll (News Event) | Clean, publishable video with context | $150–$300 |
| Field Report (Shot + Scripted) | 3–6 minutes, self-produced or collaborative | $250–$900 |
| Mini-Doc / Extended Report | 7–12 minutes, shot + edited, with script, graphics, and final export | $1,000–$2,300 |
| Video Essay / Commentary | Scripted, on-camera, lightly edited | $300–$600 |
AUDIO CONTRIBUTIONS
| Type | Description | Estimated Rate |
| Raw Tape / Field Audio | High-quality field recordings from protests, interviews, or ambient sound (15–30 min) | $100–$250 |
| Reported Audio Segment | Fully produced 5–8 min news piece with script, narration, interviews, and light editing | $300–$600 |
| Narrated Audio Essay / Commentary | Scripted and voiced by contributor (3–6 minutes) | $250–$500 |
| Podcast Guest Segment | Guest reporting or interview contribution (10–20 min of usable tape) | $150–$300 |
| Podcast Production / Editing | Includes editing a 20–40 min podcast episode with intro/outro, levels, and polish – depending on complexity | $120–$400 |
PHOTO CONTRIBUTIONS
| Type | Description | Estimated Rate |
| Single Editorial Photo (Published) | For use in a web article and third-party platforms | $75–$150 |
| Photo Set / Gallery | 5–10 images with basic edits and captions | $200–$400 |
| On-Assignment Coverage | Live event or location-based work (2–4 hours) | $300–$500 |
| Photo + Text Package | Original photos + 500–800 word write-up | $500–$800 |
Pitching + Editorial Process
We welcome ideas from freelance reporters, video producers, and photographers.
To pitch us:
- Submit a pitch here.
- Include a summary (3–5 sentences), estimated timeline, and relevant samples.
- We’ll respond within 10 business days with feedback, clarifications, or a green light if your pitch is accepted.
Additional Notes
- Expenses: Must be pre-approved and supported with receipts
- Rights: TRNN generally secures first publication rights and retains non-exclusive, perpetual editorial rights unless otherwise negotiated
Credit: We always give byline and on-screen credit to freelancers unless you request otherwise
