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Crew FAQ
If your question is not addressed, please contact the Ohio Film Office at (614) 644-5156.
"I WANT TO BREAK INTO THE FILM INDUSTRY. WHAT DO I DO?
No matter where you're located in the country, breaking into the film industry takes time, perseverance, and patience.
Here's what you can do:
- IDENTIFY WHAT YOU WANT TO DO
There are numerous positions on a film production. Productions are run like small cities needing all the services you would find in the real world. Productions use accountants, painters, set designers, lighting specialists, camera operators, office managers, seamstresses, chefs, drivers, camera operators, construction crews, photographers, among many others.
Many people start as a production assistant within a department they are interested.
- VOLUNTEER
Major productions are looking to hire people with experience. But how do you get experience if you can't get hired because you have none? Volunteer on a student or independent project. Contact film programs at colleges and organizations to see if there is a need for volunteers. Go to Accredited Programs for a list of programs and Helpful Links for local organizations.
- CREATE A (FILM-FRIENDLY) RESUME
As mentioned above, the entry-level position in most departments is a production assistant. Qualities production assistants have are problem-solving skills, adaptability, working well under pressure, resourcefulness, a positive attitude, and the ability to get along with a variety of people.
Identify what job competencies you have in your current line of work that match those of a production assistant and accentuate them on your resume. A resume is also where previous volunteer or related coursework can be mentioned. Don't forget to list a few references who can speak to your ability to work in the film industry or about the qualities that make a good production assistant.
Once you've completed your resume, send it out to local production companies. Be sure to follow up.
- TAKE A CLASS AND READ ABOUT THE INDUSTRY
Enroll in a class at local college or film organization to learn about the industry. To find out more about programs in your area, go to Helpful Links and Accredited Programs. Check out books on the industry or subscribe to Screen Magazine, Filmmaker Magazine, or Up3date.
- NETWORK
Try to meet as many crew members and attend events related to the local film industry. Schedule an informational interview with an established crew member to learn more about the industry and their profession. Go to Helpful Links to connect with local film organizations in your area that can assist you.
I ONLY HAVE ONE CREDIT, AND IT WAS FOR A STUDENT PRODUCTION. CAN I STILL LIST WITH THE OHIO FILM OFFICE?
You will still be able to list on the Ohio Film Office website as a production assistant. This category only requires one credit that can either be a professional or non-professional project.
ARE THERE ANY PROGRAMS IN OHIO THAT OFFER FILM PRODUCTION COURSES?
Yes, there are several programs in the state. They offer a range of concentrations from film theory to film production. To find out more about the offerings near you go to Accredited Programs.
HOW CAN I BREAK INTO ACTING?
Ohio has a wonderful local talent pool and numerous resources for those interested in acting. Check out local community theaters, community education classes, and local colleges/universities for program offerings. If you already have some acting experience, you may want to begin with a local talent agency. Reputable agencies will not charge fees until you receive work and will never charge you to audition.
I'M CURRENTLY WORKING OUTSIDE THE INDUSTRY AS A PHOTOGRAPHER, CHEF, PERSONAL TRAINER, PAINTER, ETC., BUT HAVE VALUABLE SERVICES TO OFFER. HOW CAN I MAKE THE TRANSITION?
If you're looking to make a transition and you've already identified your specialty in the industry, you're almost there. Continue to follow the advice of how to break into the industry (Go to the first question). You may even be ready to list your services with the Ohio Film Office. Go to List Your Services to find out how.
WHAT'S THE VALUE OF LISTING WITH THE OHIO FILM OFFICE?
The Ohio Film Office is the initial point of contact for film productions interested or already committed to filming in the state. Listing your services can help you get your name or business in front of the key decision makers early.
HOW CAN I FIND OUT ABOUT OPPORTUNITIES OR WAYS TO GET MORE INVOLVED IN THE FILM/VIDEO INDUSTRY IN OHIO?
For the latest information on what's going on, please make sure that you register with the Ohio Film Office.
WHEN A PROJECT IS IN TOWN, WHAT IS THE BEST WAY TO CONTACT THE PRODUCTION OFFICE?
Often productions will have an office set up but are not ready to take calls. With only a limited amount of time to prep their shoots, they cannot always field calls. Once they make the contact information public, the number will be available. By listing with the Ohio Film Office, your contact information will be passed along to the production if requested.
I'M A LOCAL INDEPENDENT OR STUDENT FILMMAKER. DOES THE OHIO FILM OFFICE ASSIST PRODUCTIONS WITH SMALLER PROJECTS?
Yes, the Ohio Film Office assists independent and student filmmakers. Part of the Ohio Film Office's mission is to support local talent and help to advance homegrown film productions. Please contact us at (614) 644-5156, to learn more about how we can help you and for local resources around the state.
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