Film Jobs Are on the Rise

by Sarah Clark
sarah.clark@careertrainingdirectory.com
Career Training Directory Columnist

According to the Bureau of Labor Statistics, the number of jobs in filmmaking is expected to grow in the coming years. If you’ve always dreamed of being a filmmaker, now may be a good time to turn your dream into a reality.

We’re living in the era of the iPod, where people are downloading video content to their iPods and the demand of cable programming is on the rise. While ticket sales at the box-office are lower than they’ve been in recent years, there’s still plenty to celebrate in Hollywood.

Take HBO, for example. Programming is now part of its regular offerings. Highly popular and critically acclaimed shows like Sex in the City, The Sopranos, Deadwood, and more recently, Big Love, are driving the demand for more original content. More shows means more people are needed to make the shows; this is good news for those interested in film and video production careers.

Jobs in Film and Video Production

Do you want to be a film producer, director, or director of photography? These are just a few of the jobs you can pursue in the film and video production business. The most well-known film job is that of director, the person who oversees the performances of actors. Directors work with set designers, wardrobe designers, producers, and camera crew to make sure each take goes according to plan. Writers are also an integral part of any production. Without writers, you wouldn’t have a story or a script.

Preparing for a Career in Film

So what kind of preparation is necessary for a career in film and video production? If you’re interested in directing, editing, or shooting film, you’ll probably want to attend film school. Script writers might attend film school too, or they might pursue a master’s of fine art program that offers a writing concentration. Producers might get their start by working their way up from the bottom. Or they might get a dual degree in business and film.

There’s no single path to success in the film business. Besides getting the right training, a persistent approach and resilient spirit may be your best assets.

Sources

Bureau of Labor Statistics

About the Author

Sarah Clark is a freelance writer who specializes in career development.