Whether you want to work on set or behind the scenes, learning how to get into the film industry starts with understanding how it works. Unlike most traditional jobs, people in film are usually self-employed freelancers. That means you’ll be finding your own projects and building connections in an industry that values trust and reputation.
It’s a competitive business, but absolutely possible to turn it into a lifelong career. Below you’ll find practical tips to help you kick-start your journey and find your first opportunities in the film industry.
Starting Out: Building Your Freelance Foundation
As a filmmaker, you’ll most likely work as a self-employed freelancer. That means looking for clients and managing your own finances — including filing your taxes. Freelancers work project to project, though some contracted jobs do exist in film production offices. These roles aren’t always creative, but they do offer steady pay.
Being self-employed takes patience. It takes time to build your reputation and client list, but things get easier as your network grows. Many filmmakers start out with part-time or flexible jobs to support themselves in the early years, and that’s completely normal. The key is consistency — keep showing up, meeting people, and improving your craft.
Maybe film isn’t your first career, and that’s okay! Think about how your past experience can help you transition. For example, if you’ve worked in admin or management, those organizational and leadership skills are perfect for production work. The advantage of having prior experience is that people may trust you with responsibility sooner. You can use that to tailor your resume and move up faster.
Entry-Level Paths and On-Set Experience
Getting into the film industry usually starts with entry-level positions. Common roles include production assistant (also known as a runner) or trainee. Runners help across departments with general tasks, while trainees work within a specific area like camera, makeup, or lighting. These jobs give you hands-on experience and help you understand how all departments collaborate on set.
Another route is to work directly in your desired job role on small, low-budget projects. Many professionals split their time between indie productions and bigger studio work — for instance, working as a production designer on small sets and as an art department assistant on larger ones. This approach helps you build a portfolio while earning income and growing your reputation.
Whatever your route, apply widely. You might land one job out of ten applications, but every project builds experience and credibility. Over time, you’ll develop relationships that lead to steady work without having to constantly job-hunt.
Internships and Training Programs
Internships are a great way to experience the film industry before committing to a full-time role. These can take place in production offices or on set, giving you real exposure to how film teams operate. Many large companies like Warner Bros, Lucasfilm, and Pixar offer internships throughout the year. Check their official career pages or search Google for current listings.
Smaller companies also take interns. Be prepared to send out a lot of emails, but make each one personal — don’t just copy and paste the same message. Film charities and organizations can also help new filmmakers, students, and underrepresented groups find placements and training opportunities.
Some local film agencies and commissions even offer paid placements or resume feedback. It’s worth checking what training or networking support your regional film commission can provide.
Where to Find Film Jobs
If you’re just starting out, online resources can be your best friend. There are plenty of job sites and communities that focus specifically on film work. Most listings are for lower-budget projects, but they’re perfect for gaining experience and building connections.
Facebook groups are another great source of film work and collaboration. Search for local or niche filmmaking groups to connect with people near you. Here are a few examples:
- Film Industry Network
- Georgia Filmmakers Network
- San Francisco Filmmakers
- New York Filmmakers
- Florida Independent Filmmakers
You can also check your local film commission websites for job listings, crew databases, and production resources. These organizations often promote filmmaking in their region and sometimes post open positions. Here are a few to get started:
Networking and Connections
The easiest way to get into the film industry is often through people you already know. Producers and crew members usually hire trusted contacts first. So don’t be shy about reaching out — friends, former classmates, or even professors can open doors to opportunities.
Beyond personal contacts, join professional events and communities. Networking can happen anywhere from film sets and workshops to Facebook groups and festivals. Local film commissions, unions, and cinemas often host mixers or panels where you can meet working filmmakers.
Film festivals are another perfect place to meet people and volunteer. Even simple jobs like checking tickets can help you network. You can also find volunteer opportunities through Film Freeway.
Sidestep Into Other Creative Industries
You might call yourself a filmmaker, but that doesn’t mean you’ll only ever work in film. Many people use their film skills across related industries like:
- Animation
- Commercials
- VFX
- Games
- Events
Branching out can make your career more stable and varied. Each project helps you learn, grow, and connect with new creative professionals. Stay flexible — every step adds to your experience and skill set.
Summary
To sum it up, getting into the film industry takes patience, persistence, and passion. Keep learning, meet people, and say yes to new experiences — each one moves you closer to your dream career. Good luck on your journey!
