The world of filmmaking is changing and there is no longer one sure way of establishing a career in the industry. But the good news is that there is plenty you can do to improve your chances.
Here are 10 ways you can break into the film industry:
- Do your homework
Before you do anything else, it’s a really wise move to read as many books and watch all the YouTube tutorials about the industry. This means you can get going straight away on a limited budget and there’s a plethora of material out there that will provide invaluable insights into the world of filmmaking.
- Work your way up
Get your foot in the door by working as a runner or assistant on other people’s films or projects. Be willing to do any job and make yourself available, you’ll learn lots and make valuable connections.
- Film school
There’s no doubt attending film school can help teach you your craft. It would also hopefully make some very useful connections, which might lead you to being noticed or discovered, and establish a career in film making. It certainly won’t hurt!
- Find your style
Be original. It’s really important that you find a visual language that is unique to you and that can tell a compelling story. Find your niche and work hard to be the best in your field.
- Make a film yourself
Whatever kind of film production you want to get into, whether that’s shorts, features, advertising – people will want to see evidence of your ideas and creativity. If you are able, it’s always a good idea to create a film yourself – however simple that may be – and put it out there. You’ll always learn a lot from making your own projects.
- Build a team
Making films is easier (and maybe more fun!) when a group works together for a shared purpose. This might mean you can make more films faster, gain more experience and learn from your team mates.
- All the jobs
There’s so much more to the industry than the film making part. Have you considered other jobs on set? From runners, set builders, painters, costume, catering – the list goes on. Be open to other routes into the industry.
- Post production
If this is an area that interests you, there’s software out there for you to learn and show off your potential. London is at the centre of the post production industry currently – it’s another really interesting avenue that might work for you.
- Network
The film industry is ALL about making connections, so whether you join a film club or talk to other filmmakers online, get to as many film festivals, talks and screenings as you can, the main thing is to put yourself out there, be part of the community.
- Positive mindset
Having a positive mindset is the most guaranteed way of success, whatever industry you’re breaking into. If you’re always the one who’s happy to help, who does things cheerfully and who is open to ideas, you’ll be more likely to score the next job that comes up.
Goodluck and keep going!
Look out for our next article about how to break into advertising production.
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