How do you find work experience in the film industry? As you know, it isn’t easy to find professional training in the overly competitive world of film.
Many filmmakers start their careers by working on indie films. However, by doing this, you can learn the wrong methods. So, finding work experience on a professional film set is ideal.
This guide breaks down a few different ways to find work experience placements in the film industry. We also include links to helpful websites and advice on applying.
Film Studios
To begin with, the easiest way to find work experience is through a film studio. For example, names such as NBC have summer internships. Plus, big names will hire students and recent graduates throughout the year.
Working for a big company may involve more admin tasks than actual filmmaking. However, it can help your career and make you more employable when you add a well-known company name to your film resume.
In addition, if you want to work in a particular area of film. For example, in editing, art design, or VFX, you can find companies that work in these areas and ask them directly for work experience. Big companies are a good place to start, as they hire the most people.
Local Production Companies
If you find it difficult to break into big studios, it might be a good idea to apply to smaller ones. There are thousands of film companies worldwide, not just the large ones that make Hollywood films. They won’t hire as many people, but they are also not as competitive.
In addition, smaller companies are also more likely to have practical film training. To find them, search Google Maps for film and media businesses in your location. Create a list of companies and apply to them in bulk.
Some companies will advertise work on their websites. However, you can also contact them directly to ask for work experience. This approach is called ‘cold emailing’. To do this, write a short email asking for work experience and attach a resume to the email.
Agencies
This is another clever way of finding work experience in film. Every state and region has a dedicated film agency that could help you find work experience.
Many filmmakers forget to take advantage of local opportunities. In the US, these agencies are active in every state and major city.
These film agencies might also have a film crew database where you can input your personal details. Indie filmmakers and professionals will use websites like these to hire their crew. Plus, you can also find access to funding and training on these websites.
Charities
You can find film charity groups worldwide that aim to help filmmakers find work. If you are new to the industry and within a specific group, a charity can help you get started.
These film groups are for people such as women in film, BAME, or veterans. However, they can also help students find work experience and offer general education to newcomers.
Your local film agency can help you find training placements near you. For example, their websites might list local training programs and film clubs. Some of these sites also have paid work experience and resume feedback services.
Job Sites
You can find a lot of film job sites online. These advertise paid film work and entry-level positions. Both major and small film companies use these websites to list work experience.
When you apply for a film job online, make sure to read the job description carefully. Most job advertisements will ask for a PDF resume and a cover letter. Freelance job roles tend to ask for experience, while full-time roles will want references.
Either way, when applying for film jobs online, you will need to apply for many positions. Film work online is very competitive, so expect to get one out of every ten jobs you apply for.
Social Media
Finally, you can find work experience in film and TV on social media sites. Filmmakers often advertise jobs and entry-level positions through social media. It’s less formal than job sites, so may only find work on indie films.
To begin with, Facebook groups are very popular with student filmmakers and people looking for PAs. However, you can find work on any big social media network, such as LinkedIn, Twitter, and Instagram. To do this, use the search bar to look for work directly.
You can also contact filmmakers on social media and ask for work experience. When you do this don’t spam anyone, a short message with a link to your online portfolio is all you need. In addition, ensure that your social media profile and feeds all look professional.
| Film Industry Network |
| Los Angeles Filmmakers |
| I Need A Production Assistant |
| Georgia Filmmakers Network |
| New York Indie Filmmakers |
Summary
To sum up, finding work experience in film and TV is not easy, but there are many ways to find a placement. We are also lucky to live at a time when there are plenty of jobs for upcoming filmmakers. This first step is the hardest, but finding work will get easier once you have training.
For starters, join a local Facebook group; many offer advice for people starting in the industry and can even provide resume feedback. Then, check out your local film agency and research local companies. Good luck, and remember you don’t have to do this alone.
