3 answers
Maxton
Student
Canton, Georgia
1
Question
Asked
482 views
A few questions about starting directorial work...
1. How do I get into any position of a media production?
2. How do I rise to a high enough level to ask for a directing job?
3. Who do I ask?
4. Once/If given the job, where do I start?
5. Once/If give the job, what are my priorities?
3 answers
Michael Lodato
Philosophy instructor turned product manager
2
Answers
New York, New York
Updated
Michael’s Answer
Hi Maxton, if you want to get into media production, the best thing you can do is build a portfolio. Even completing just one or two projects will put you in a great position.
When I began my career, I was working in marketing at a home and garden company. I wanted to get into video production and simply volunteered for anything remotely related. I ended up helping out on set when we produced some instructional videos. Having a YouTube link that I could send to other media producers was key. Although it wasn't directing, I was able to show I had experience writing a shot list and working with some equipment, and was therefore someone teachable.
Later, I volunteered to produce a 3-minute fundraising video for a nonprofit. (Surprise! it was actually Career Village.) I would highly recommend finding a way to participate in any type of video, whether it's instructional, fundraising, advertising, or even a narrative short film. A friend of mine is currently applying to a graduate program in directing. He has theatrical experience, but not much experience with film. So, he chose to direct a short 5-minute video. It was his own idea, and it was primarily stop motion. I think the important point is this: Even if it's a very short video, look for projects to work on, and if you can't find one, work on your own. This way, you can prove you have experience and a vision for producing engaging video. Slowly you can find other ways to get involved and eventually rise to the level of directing someone else's project.
Last, don't underestimate how friendly people can be. Ask around about local projects. Or message a few directors on LinkedIn. You may get the opportunity to shadow them. That type of experience could put you in a better position to be accepted when you apply to an internship or job.
When I began my career, I was working in marketing at a home and garden company. I wanted to get into video production and simply volunteered for anything remotely related. I ended up helping out on set when we produced some instructional videos. Having a YouTube link that I could send to other media producers was key. Although it wasn't directing, I was able to show I had experience writing a shot list and working with some equipment, and was therefore someone teachable.
Later, I volunteered to produce a 3-minute fundraising video for a nonprofit. (Surprise! it was actually Career Village.) I would highly recommend finding a way to participate in any type of video, whether it's instructional, fundraising, advertising, or even a narrative short film. A friend of mine is currently applying to a graduate program in directing. He has theatrical experience, but not much experience with film. So, he chose to direct a short 5-minute video. It was his own idea, and it was primarily stop motion. I think the important point is this: Even if it's a very short video, look for projects to work on, and if you can't find one, work on your own. This way, you can prove you have experience and a vision for producing engaging video. Slowly you can find other ways to get involved and eventually rise to the level of directing someone else's project.
Last, don't underestimate how friendly people can be. Ask around about local projects. Or message a few directors on LinkedIn. You may get the opportunity to shadow them. That type of experience could put you in a better position to be accepted when you apply to an internship or job.
Stephanie Terrero
Director, Producer, Actor
4
Answers
Atlanta, Georgia
Updated
Stephanie’s Answer
Hi Maxton!
If you want to get started with directorial work aka working as a director there are a few ways to do this:
1. Save up enough money to buy your own camera. Then you can start shooting and editing your own short films. You’ll get to practice filming and setting up shots in your own creative way.
2. Become a production assistant. Work as a PA on film and television sets, you’ll get to bounce between departments and see how a professional set works. Ask questions and try to shadow the on set director if you can. Talk with others on set for feedback as well.
3. Go to film school. You’ll learn a wealth of knowledge, network and hopefully have career guidance.
4. Advertise your directing services in filmmaking Facebook groups. Start volunteering and create a reel before you can ask for paid work as a director.
These are a just a few of the many ways as no one path is linear. Hope this helps!
If you want to get started with directorial work aka working as a director there are a few ways to do this:
1. Save up enough money to buy your own camera. Then you can start shooting and editing your own short films. You’ll get to practice filming and setting up shots in your own creative way.
2. Become a production assistant. Work as a PA on film and television sets, you’ll get to bounce between departments and see how a professional set works. Ask questions and try to shadow the on set director if you can. Talk with others on set for feedback as well.
3. Go to film school. You’ll learn a wealth of knowledge, network and hopefully have career guidance.
4. Advertise your directing services in filmmaking Facebook groups. Start volunteering and create a reel before you can ask for paid work as a director.
These are a just a few of the many ways as no one path is linear. Hope this helps!
Debe Black
sales management consulting
2
Answers
Gilbert, Arizona
Updated
Debe’s Answer
Hi Maxton,
My background is in the sales side of media, so, I don't know how the production people get their start. I'd recommend starting with an internship. Apply everywhere you can, the experience and contacts should be a good launching point for your career and the people you meet will be able to give you some career guidance.
My background is in the sales side of media, so, I don't know how the production people get their start. I'd recommend starting with an internship. Apply everywhere you can, the experience and contacts should be a good launching point for your career and the people you meet will be able to give you some career guidance.
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