Training for Film Jobs

Advance your career with training for film jobs

By Linda C. Ray
Jobs in the film business can range from running a camera to acting and directing to working in emerging Internet video jobs. Film employment is a competitive environment because jobs in the film business are attractive to a lot of people. You need to get the right kind of training and make connections in the industry to get your foot in the door.

A degree in acting or video production can get you started if you are lucky enough to land one of the prestigious film jobs in LA. The film industry is notorious for recruiting from within its ranks when it comes time for promotions, so you must continue your training to move up. Keep up with new technology through training and find instructional centers with a reputation recognized by industry leaders. Watch for training for film jobs through a variety of reputable places.

1. Look for entry-level training for movie job opportunities.

2. Find alternative routes to train for TV film jobs.

3. Participate in trade groups that offer training and professional development for production manager jobs.

 

Find training for production jobs that provides hands-on experience

Whether you are interested in directing, acting or working a camera, look for a training curriculum that will give you the opportunity to produce your work and learn from the process. Many schools will help you to produce a body of work in your chosen field as part of their instruction.
Try: The Film Connection places students in on-the-job training positions to take full advantage of the learning environment. Find training in advanced courses that are made available in energized one-day workshops as well as private training from the Filmmaker’s Central School of Cinema that will take you to the shooting locations for hands-on experience that is vital to your career.

Seek alternative training avenues for jobs in the film business

While in training, learn to network make contacts. Look for training opportunities from instructors who can show you how to get yourself known in the industry while also teaching you the skills you need. Continue with your training while making those connections.
Try: Get A Mentor has opportunities for students to learn about the film industry first-hand from experts in the field. You can find loads of training that will be useful to a film career through the education initiatives of Avid, which manufacturers the leading digital editing solutions in the industry.

Join associations that offer members training to land film business jobs

Most trade associations offer continuing education and professional development courses for their members. For those who are interested in the business end of the film industry, some groups can guide you to courses that cover areas such as film presentation, box office strategy and theater management. Other organizations offer members more specialized training opportunities by industry experts.
Try: Find training tapes and videos at the National Association of Theatre Owners. The United Stuntmens Association sponsors a stunt school for aspiring stunt actors for films.

 

  • If you choose to get a bachelor's degree in your chosen area of film before you start looking for jobs in production, make sure to participate in the clubs and societies at your school that will give you the opportunities to build a portfolio of your films.