Calvin
What should I do for a filmmaking career in order to get noticed?
I enjoy creating ideas for films but I've always been more of a behind-the-scenes type of person so I have no idea how to get these ideas to the public. Should I continue to hammer out drafts and work on short films (posting it on social media) in order to get noticed? #film #film-production #film-making
5 answers
Scott David Reeves
Scott David’s Answer
You have to ask yourself what your goal is. Do you want to tell stories? If so, just keep working. What you focus on expands, and you will get better at it. Don't worry about people noticing you, if you care about what you're doing the right people will pay attention.
As an artist, as a writer, as Filmarker or actor, the idea is to be in service of a great story. That people notice you is secondary to expressing something about your life and experiences. Don't worry about anyone but you while creating, then at least it's honest.
Mark Wagner
Mark’s Answer
Okay, Calvin, look for a job behind-the-scene in the film industry to get started sharing your thoughts and feelings with the pros. At least, you could finally get noticed, and maybe appreciated. The producers of Reality TV are always looking for another idea. One possible problem to consider would be that ideas don't get copyrighted; it's the story that does. Certainly, you could learn more about the film industry by registering on Twitter, and following the ideas of the pros. What original idea that you've prepared for a specific audience has never been produced for entertainment. Best wishes.
Korey Miller
Korey’s Answer
I would recommend that you continue to write as much as possible if that is truly your passion. The more you do it, the better you will become. Ultimately you have to ask yourself how bad do you want it? If being a filmmaker is your goal then consume everything you can in order to sharpen your skills. The best material always rises to the top, that's how you get noticed.
Go get em! Good luck!
James Constantine Frangos
James Constantine’s Answer
To pursue a successful film-making career and get noticed, consider the following steps:
Education and Skill Development: Enroll in a film school or relevant courses to gain knowledge and practical experience in various aspects of film-making, such as screenwriting, directing, cinematography, editing, and sound design. This will help you develop your skills and build a strong foundation in the industry.
Networking: Attend film festivals, workshops, and industry events to meet other filmmakers, actors, and industry professionals. Networking is crucial for building connections and learning about potential opportunities.
Short Films and Projects: Create short films or work on smaller projects to showcase your skills and vision. These can be shared on social media platforms, film festivals, or film-sharing websites like Vimeo and YouTube. This will help you gain exposure and attract potential collaborators or investors.
Collaborate with Others: Work with other aspiring filmmakers, actors, and crew members to create projects together. Collaborations can lead to valuable learning experiences, new connections, and potentially larger projects in the future.
Online Presence: Develop a strong online presence by creating a professional website, maintaining an updated portfolio, and showcasing your work on social media platforms. This will make it easier for industry professionals to discover your work and get in touch with you.
Enter Film Festivals: Submit your short films or projects to various film festivals, both local and international. This not only provides an opportunity for your work to be seen by a wider audience but also allows you to network with other filmmakers and industry professionals.
Pitch Your Ideas: Develop a strong pitch for your film ideas and present them to potential investors, producers, or film studios. This can be done through networking events, pitching competitions, or by directly approaching production companies.
Internships and Entry-Level Jobs: Gain experience by interning or working on entry-level positions in the film industry. This will provide you with valuable insights into the industry and help you build connections with professionals who can support your career growth.
Continuous Learning: Stay updated with the latest trends, technologies, and techniques in the film industry by attending workshops, reading industry publications, and following influential filmmakers and critics.
Persistence and Patience: Building a successful filmmaking career takes time and effort. Be prepared to face rejections and setbacks, but remain persistent and focused on your goals. Keep creating, learning, and networking, and eventually, your hard work and dedication will pay off.
GOD BLESS,
James.
David Broer-LeRoux
David’s Answer
Calvin, you want to be noticed. There are two sure fire ways to achieve that. One is to be really, really horrible and the other is to have something more to offer than the competition.
Film school is good but be forewarned, it will teach you how to make movies just like everyone else. Study films that may not be the greatest, study really poorly made movies (Woods, Corman etc.) Look for the little things that work and don't work. Go out and sit in restaurants, cafes, clubs and malls. Listen to how people talk to one another. Every conversation is in reality three conversations. The one in your head, the one in their head and the actual one. Write the third one.
Work on every project you can. I have 15 years working in Hollywood and four in Dallas. I still work on student films when I can.
Always be on time. Always be prepared and never forget once camera rolls something will break, fail or just not work. And that is what gaff tape is for.
Thank you so much, David!
Avila