Many filmmakers believe that their passion for the field began while they were still young. Their work also started at a relatively young age. Whether it was making movies with classmates and friends or working at a high school event, getting experience is essential for success in the field. Even if you filmed with a phone and edited them on your computer, having examples of such work shows your talent and skills.
Getting a Degree and Relevant Experience
Getting a degree is usually not required for success because of how much experience and creativity are also required. Still, getting your bachelor’s gives you a chance to learn new skills, and it can fill in where your knowledge lacks. For instance, if you don’t have the technical skills, it isn’t easy to succeed. Going to film school also lets you use fancier cameras and other equipment to create better pieces for your portfolio.
Going to school is a significant investment, so you’ll want to consider the best way to cover the cost. If you need help financing your education, you can take out a private lender student loan. You can shop around for the best interest rate and get loans on your terms. You don’t need a cosigner either, allowing you more independence in the process.
If you want to get your film-related degree, it’s best to have a sense of purpose. Instead of just completing assignments and attending your classes, you’ll want to find ways of making the most of your time in school. Try to find extracurricular activities, such as studying abroad in relevant areas. Or you could work for your school by creating promotional videos.
Do Work in Your Field
When getting your degree, you’ll likely need to do some learning activities outside the classroom. You might have an internship requirement or need to do work in the field. Some areas allow students many hands-on activities. But other students might choose to move to another city or state known for the industry, such as New York or Hollywood. No matter where you do your hands-on work, you’ll want to make the most of it and grow in the field. It’s an excellent way of meeting other professionals in the world.
Add to Your Portfolio
Most industries require some entry-level job before you get your first “real job.” But that’s even more so when it comes to filmmaking. It’s incredibly competitive, and you’ll need a lot of expertise. If you want to be a great producer or scriptwriter, be patient. If you try to work your way toward a significant position in just a couple of years, you might end up burning out. Then you may decide to pursue a field other than your chosen one. Instead of facing the risk of burnout, you should look for ways to build your portfolio and develop the necessary skills.
Attend Networking Events
Getting a great job is as much about your skills as it is about who you know. Other industries post positions on career boards, but word of mouth is often the way cinematography jobs are filled. Try to meet as many others as you can to increase your chances of getting hired.