I am often asked this question, what do I need to do to prepare for a career in film or television. That’s why the last class I teach in my film class is about this very subject. Perhaps you have taken a class or two on film or television production. Maybe you are a high school student who has a passion for film or you are someone looking for a career change. It’s never too early to start planning and preparing if you are serious about pursuing a career in media.
7. As boring as this sounds, you need to learn the principles of business and finance. The entertainment industry is first and foremost a business, and money talks. I’ve said it many “times that’s why they call it show business”. There’s no show without the business. As a filmmaker, it’s a good bet that you will not have the resources to produce and finance your films on your own. You most certainly will have to find the money and make the deal work. That means working with investors who want a return on their money. No one’s going to give you resources to make your movie without some expectation of profit.
I don’t care what your role is in the film or television industry. Whether you’re an editor or a production designer, the bottom line is you will need to know something about business. Chances are you will be a freelancer at some point in your career, which means you will be self-employed. You will have to be able to find clients and keep them happy. So you can see why having a few business skills is essential.
8. Become a storyteller. The art of storytelling has become a lost art in the entertainment industry. But those who recognize a good story have a tremendous advantage. It doesn’t matter if you’re not a writer. To advance your career as an actor, producer, director or crew member, you must work on projects that embrace quality, excellence and, most importantly, a solid story. Therefore, it’s essential to recognize good writing and storytelling.
9. Start building relationships today. The people around you will most likely be your fellow colleagues. Whether you’re taking a film class or actor’s workshop or performing in a high school drama production, get to know your peers and make friends. Filmmaking is a collaborative process. That means you cannot do it alone. I don’t care how good you think you are, you will need help.
Recently, a friend of mine produced and directed his first feature film. He did not do it by himself. In fact, he had over 50 volunteers, including cast and crew. Without building relationships over the past few years, he would never have been able to get this project off the ground.
When they need help, they will call you. And when you need an editor or videographer, hopefully, you will have a friend you will be able to call. That’s how it works.
10 Find a training program in your home town. Today you can find film classes almost anywhere. Chances are there’s a film class near you. Take some classes before you decide to go to film school or before you get on a flight and go to Hollywood. The point is you must get some training.
Here in Cincinnati at Media Missionary School, we offer several high school film camps during the summer. If you are interested, we can find you accommodations. We’re available to help you. Check out our website (
mediamissionaryschool.blogspot.com) for class schedules.
The Bottom Line
If you believe you’ve been called to the entertainment industry, then go for it. Protect your dream and push ahead. Remember, it won’t come looking for you. You’ll have to pursue it. But whatever you do, start preparing now. Follow these easy steps. There’s nothing ground shaking or revolutionary about what I’ve shared with you. It’s just plain old common sense. You have to put the work, the effort and the time into getting yourself ready. So go for it.
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