If you plan on applying to production jobs, research how production varies across different projects and studios according to scale and budget. Also learn about different kinds of production roles. Some roles in production center around creative issues, while others involve managing the team or keeping the project on budget. It also will be worth your while to learn about the overall process of how films get made and how production fits into the overall picture.
If you plan on doing freelance work, try to gauge the demand in your area for production work. Try to see what sectors have the highest demand.
Demo reels generally come in two format: a collage format which is essentially a mash-up of previous projects, and a sample format, which shows several scenes running about 20 seconds long from previous projects. In general, collage formats are best if you are interested in commercial or other short-form work, while sample formats are better if you’re interested in longer, narrative-based projects. [5] X Research source You may choose to create a portfolio online that has full-length videos of your work. If you do create a portfolio, make sure that they demo reel is the first thing in it. Your demo reel and portfolio should absolutely be online. Do not pass out DVD’s of your portfolio; these are obsolete. Instead, create and post the demo reel online.
Keep in mind that these kinds of projects may range in terms of compensation that they offer, but they can be great for building your resume or even getting your name recognized. In general, try to go for projects that have some artistic value and give you some license. This way your individual voice and skills will be able to shine through your work.
If you went to a liberal arts college and majored in something related to the industry like Film or Cinema Studies, list any concentration or area of interest within the major.
It’s ok if you don’t have any experience yet in the film industry. If you don’t have any jobs that would fall into this category, don’t force it. Just leave off this section.
Depending on how old you are and how many jobs you have had, you don’t need to list every single job. For instance, if you babysat in high school, you can probably leave that off your resume.
For example, instead of saying “Managed several employees and directed them to do various projects”, say: “Acted as a manager for several employees and increased general productivity of the company to save $1500 monthly. ”
Make sure that your business card has your name, phone number, email address, and a brief statement or title, such as “Film student” or “Marketing Executive. ”
Go to dinner parties, social events, gallery openings, or any other kind of event that involves mingling with people you don’t know. [15] X Research source Keep going to these events until you feel comfortable and used to talking with people you don’t know.
An informational interview is an informal interview in which you can ask a professional in a field that interests you about their job and their experience in the industry. Ask your contact about their path through the industry, and what advice they have for someone just starting out. Informational interviews are a great way of both learning more about the industry, and making a connection that could come in useful later. Ask your contact at the end of the interview if there are any openings at their company. They will be impressed by your interest and your initiative, and may tell you about any opportunities at their company.
Bring a stack of your business cards to these events. If you are in conversation with someone who seems interested in you and your skills, give them a card.
For example, you could include a sentence in your cover letter that says, “I am particularly excited to have the opportunity to apply to Red Crown Productions because I admire the work they have done to bring national attention to smaller, independent filmmakers. ”
Just because a studio doesn’t list jobs, it doesn’t mean they don’t exist. Many studios hire through word of mouth or through references, which is why pursuing them is a good tactic.
Their website is always a great place to start. You can also find information on them by doing a Google search.
Stay positive and down to earth. The last thing any film crew needs is someone who will bring drama to the table. Present yourself as someone who is grounded and is willing to follow directions.
