ASK & DISCUSS INDEX

9 years, 9 months ago - Paddy Robinson-Griffin

BTW I used to work in IT too ;-)

9 years, 10 months ago - Paddy Robinson-Griffin

Find someone working as a 2AC and ask. Production aren't terribly interested in filling trainee roles directly, so going to people in the department is the easiest way.

Get a full driving licence if you don't have one already, it is valuable beyond belief!

9 years, 9 months ago - Marcos Montero

Thanks Paddy and Wai for stopping over and sharing invaluable advice :)

I share the thoughts that the time will never be perfect and I have been postponing the move for far too long. I'm ready to take the step it's just that I wanted to have a first contract experience before giving the leaving notice to my current employer, in case I could make the transition a bit smoother (I don’t really find myself very unoccupied, but financial instability it would be fine)

In relation to why camera department, I guess because in my mind I somehow find camera work to be more directly related with the cinematography/look of a film and also because I enjoy technology. But haven’t had experienced the others so I’m been close-minded. Roles as the DIP look VERY interesting and I should explore them as well. Which is why I think I should give a try to a runner role to get me a better understanding on how films are really produced.

If you guys or anyone need a pair of hands please count me in! My email is marcos@marcosmontero.es.

9 years, 9 months ago - Paddy Robinson-Griffin

Don't wait for a gentle transition, the time will never be perfect, if you're going to do it, do it!

A good start is to get contracting instead of payroll employee. You need to get used to running a company and financial instability, but it also makes you flexible. Very few people in entertainment are employees, teams are assembled from freelancers each time, so get used to the freelance lifestyle!

How did you come to decide you want to be a camera trainee/camera department? I would suggest starting as a runner as you get to work a bit with all the departments, and you might find you like locations, prosthetics, sound, production, etc. as much or more. It's so hard to get a real feel without doing, so at least consider that option :)

Transferable skills - if you are logical and methodical then that is apparently often in short supply on a film set, and you may find production a natural home. If you can make excel squeal, it could be a good fit and get you into a financially viable position faster. Specialise in basic IT systems for film productions and you might find a niche. Maybe you'll become a DIT, the crossover between camera, edit, production and IT departments! Basically there are a lot of roles and many will seem opaque from the outside, much clearer on set :)

Just some thoughts :)

9 years, 9 months ago - Tasha Back

If you want experience in the camera dept then runner roles won't help hugely - you might meet some camera crews but what they really want in a trainee is someone who knows the kit.
Get work experience at a rental house (Panavision / arri / take 2 etc) and if you can get paid work there even better.
Join a diary service as a camera trainee. Wizzo / arri crew / suz cruz / Callbox all take camera trainees I believe. Good luck

9 years, 9 months ago - Wai Yan

I come from an IT background also...will message you some tips.

9 years, 9 months ago - Marcos Montero

Many thanks Paddy and Wai. It's so good to hear that there is more people out there who have pursued the jump from IT to Film. I thought I was a weird breed! :) I must admit that the move is proving overwelming at times, so any tips would be much appreciated.

I'm still doing IT full time but I'm hoping I can grab some part-time role /collaboration before leaving my current job. Or maybe keep both until I have gained enough experience in film to be able to pay the rent!

9 years, 9 months ago - Wai Yan

Three little servers bravely face the jaws of film...torn and crunched they crash in the cinematic kiln!
Good luck guys.