How to Get a Job as a Production Assistant
There have been a few inquiries about how to get your first film set or television job as a production assistant, and while there are several paths into the film industry, speaking from personal experience, this is what I would recommend to someone just getting started in the industry.
Don’t Ask for a Production Assistant Job. Work for Free.
If you’ve never worked on a set before, offer to work for free; in this business, money talks, and they have nothing to lose by giving you a chance. Common sense, following orders, and having a positive attitude will get you a long way.
Cold Call Production Companies.
When cold calling, ask if you can come in and introduce yourself; talk to people first, then email them; be approachable and confident, but don’t brag about your film schoolu00a0academicu00a0accomplishments.
Call the Local Film Commission.
Call your local film commission (or office of Economic Development) for leads on any low-budget independent films, as they can be a great way to get your foot in the door. Usually, there will be at least a couple of people on those projects with ties to the bigger gigs in town.
Production Resumes are a Different Beast.
Remember that in this business, tenacity wins. If you live in a small town, consider relocating to a larger mid-market city.
How do I get a job in the film industry?
Connect with people through your local Facebook groups and casting websites. Volunteer your time for free at first while you’re learning the ropes. Do a good job, and your new friends will definitely recommend you in the future.u201d
Is it hard to get a job in the film industry?
The film industry is notorious for being difficult to break into, and nowhere is this more true than behind the camera; yes, there are many jobs to be done on set, but getting your first one can be difficult, especially if you don’t know where to begin.
How much does it take to start a production company?
Fees for Starting a Business
| Cost | Min Startup Costs | Max Startup Costs |
|---|---|---|
| A Patent ➜ | $5,000 | $15,000 |
| Small Business Insurance | $500 | $2,000 |
| Lawyer Fees | $0 | $1,500 |
| Permit and License Fees | $50 | $700 |
How do I reach out to a production company?
Instead of sending a generic email, send a personalized email to each producer, explaining why you enjoyed their films and how much you admire their work. Tell them you want to learn from the best in the industry, which they are, and ask if you can intern with them for free.
Do I need a degree to work in film?
The truth is, you don’t need a degree to make it in film; all you need is a good mix of education and connections, which you can get by becoming a film apprentice rather than a film major.
How do I get a job in a movie with no experience?
You should also volunteer to work in the position for which you want to be paid; for example, if you want to be a paid production assistant, volunteer to work on local low-budget films as a production assistant; alternatively, you can work in a higher position on low-budget films if you work in the same department.
Is the film industry growing?
Prior to 2020, the global film industry showed promising prospects, with worldwide box office revenue increasing steadily for years and reaching more than 42 billion dollars in 2019.
Is there a test I can take to see what career is best for me?
The Career Personality Profiler is a comprehensive, scientifically validated career test that assesses both your interests and personality traits in order to help you find the right career for you, including real-world careers, industries, and college majors.
How can I become an actress in film industry?
How to Become an Actor: A Step-by-Step Guide
- Acting careers can start in high school plays and musicals.
- Get experience outside of school.
- Get educated.
- Practice makes perfect.
- Create an acting resume.
- Hire an agent.
What is the first thing to do when starting a business?
- Write your business plan.
- Fund your business.
- Pick your business location.
- Choose a business structure.
- Choose a business name.
- Register your business.
- Obtain federal and state tax IDs.
How do small production companies make money?
Production companies enter into licensing agreements with distributors, who in turn set release dates, pay for marketing, and negotiate deals with theaters. Distribution rights may be leased or based on profit-sharing, but it’s unusual for one company to be both a producer and a distributor.
How do I start a product?
- Develop the Product. The first step in creating something worth selling is to develop your product idea.
- Test the Market. Once you have a prototype or samples of your product, it’s time to put it to the test.
- Find Buyers.
- Choose Distribution Methods.
- Write a Marketing Plan.
How do you approach a production house?
Approaching a director first will help you approach production houses more easily. First, register your script by becoming a member of the Film Writers Association of India (FWA) and registering there. This will help you copyright your script and avoid being cheated.
How do I get a job as a production assistant?
- Talk to working PAs.
- Join PA Facebook groups to learn about career opportunities.
- Work on friends’ independent films to gain experience and build a resume.
How do you email a production company?
The dos and don’ts of cold emailing for work.
- Include a clear, concise subject in your email.
- Don’t use capital letters, and never use the words ‘urgent’ or ‘important’ in the subject.
- Be brief, but include all pertinent information.
- Personalize your email to make it relevant to the company or person you’re contacting.