What do you do if you're afraid to take the leap into a new career in Film Production?

Fear can be a powerful motivator or a barrier to growth, especially in film production. Personally, I’ve found that fear often disguises itself as uncertainty about capabilities or being in the industry itself. Before taking the leap, it’s crucial to delve deep into what exactly is holding you back. Is it the fear of rejection from a competitive field, or perhaps the fear of not living up to your own expectations? By identifying these fears, you not only gain clarity but also open the door to addressing them strategically. For example, I had a fear of transitioning to more technical and senior roles, but I had a good mentor who allowed me to get hands-on experience, so I gained the confidence and the expertise.

Before any career move, pinpoint the root of your fear in film production. Common fears include job instability, lack of experience, or industry competition. Once identified, systematically address them through mentorship, industry research, and realistic goal-setting. Knowledge diminishes intimidation; familiarity with film production breeds confidence.

Making a significant career change, like moving into film production, can stir up a mix of emotions, including fear. It's essential to acknowledge these feelings and approach them with compassion. Start by pinpointing what specifically makes you apprehensive about the transition. Then, take gradual steps to explore the field, whether through learning, networking, or dipping your toes into smaller projects. Lean on a supportive network of friends, family, and mentors who can offer encouragement and guidance along the way. Setting realistic goals and preparing financially can also ease some of the stress associated with change. Remember, it's natural to feel nervous, but by facing your fears you can navigate this transition.

Networking isn’t just about exchanging business cards! You need to forge meaningful connections that can shape your career. It can be very difficult but perserverence is key. Industry events and workshops offer more than just knowledge; they provide a glimpse into many different experiences and paths of other filmmakers. These interactions can be sometimes be life-changing, leading to unexpected collaborations or mentorships that will guide your journey. I recall attending a short-film festival early in my career where and took a brave step to introduce myself to a seasoned director. I asked him about his approach to writing or choosing a script and advice reshaped my approach to storytelling, ultimately impacting my creative output.

Entering the film industry doesn’t (necessarily) mean starting with big blockbuster productions. I’ve witnessed the power of humble beginnings, whether it’s assisting on indie projects or creating short films with limited resources. These experiences WILL build your AND also cultivate resilience and resourcefulness - which will be some of your greatest assets. One of my most fulfilling projects was a small passion project we did for the Lalapalooza 48-hour film competition.

Feeling stage fright about switching to film production? Start with a cameo! Volunteer on projects, take a class, or shadow a pro. Build your network and your confidence. Each step is a scene closer to your blockbuster career. And remember, every great movie starts with a single frame!

Look up videos or courses with a role aligning with your interests in Film Production. Hearing experiences from professionals and newcomers can give you a sense of what to look forward to in the industry.

Learning is a lifelong journey in film production. From understanding or mastering new editing software to understanding the nuances of visual storytelling, continuous education fuels creativity and adaptability. I’ve embraced YouTube videos, online courses, workshops, books etc. etc. to expand my skill set, enabling me to tackle diverse projects with confidence. You have to have a proactive approach. As it will not only enhance your technical prowess but also help you maintain a mindset of curiosity and growth. Which is the hallmark of successful filmmakers in my opinion.

There are also full-time jobs that teach you the skills of film production, while being in an adjacent field. For example, small production houses are often looking for videographers with a broad range of skills. You'll get to work with professional equipment, learn communication skills, and even work on-set with actors, producers and a crew. It can be a way to attain financial stability while moving in the direction you want to go.