5 Tips For Rookie Filmmakers

Avoid the most common beginner mistakes, and start off on the right foot.

Leave your ego at the door

Via allartschools.com

You can't learn anything if your ego is clouding your eyes and plugging your ears. And plus, no one will want to work with you. It doesn't matter if you're really talented in your field—you won't get the opportunity to show anyone if you're not ready to work as part of a team. It takes an army to make a good film, not an individual.

Know your budget

rawlinsons.co.uk / Via nofilmschool.com

This article by Ryan Walters gives a great rundown.

In addition to knowing your minimum budget, have at least 3 – 6 months of savings. This will give you the financial security you need to say “no” to jobs.

Network!

perey.com / Via nofilmschool.com

It is all about numbers. The more people you know, and the more people who know you and what you do, the bigger your referral stream - which means more potential for work. So get out there and develop relationships with people in the industry and film community who could be sources of referrals. I have had referrals from PA’s, actors, editors, other cinematographers — you never know where your next job might come from.

For more info on the "how-to", check this looooong interview.

Own your content

posturologyblog.com / Via nofilmschool.com

The world of freelance: aka the world of constantly losing a job and looking another one. In the film industry, all the below the line people (that would be us crew members), get paid to do “work for hire.” We show up, do our job, collect our check, and then move on to the next job and another paycheck. There are others in our industry who get to continue to collect an income on work they have already completed. These people are above the line people (typically producers, directors, actors, the studio, etc.). Consider creating work that will continue to generate an income while you are off on other projects, or when work is slow. Own content, specifically stock footage. While won't make you wildly rich, it is nice to have an income stream that continues to come in even while you sleep.

Diversify

ericchaump.wordpress.com / Via nofilmschool.com

Have as many different sources and types of revenue as possible. By having multiple revenue streams, as well as a diverse variety of revenue, you will be better equipped to weather changes in the market. For example, in addition to the referral system you can build through networking, you can also have revenue that comes from stock footage, as well as from affiliate programs with companies like B&H and Amazon. You can also develop a training series to add to your revenue stream. But don’t just limit yourself to these examples. This is where thinking creatively pays off. Additional revenue could come through investments you make, gear rentals, additional services…