What type of film makers are more reliable to make an income?
I want to make documentaries but i feel like that isn't a reliable way to find work. #film #art #education #television
3 answers
Christy’s Answer
If you want reliability, look for a different career. Working in film requires dedication, passion, and the willingness to take risks. If reliability is more important to you, film isn't the right vocation.
Law’s Answer
Hey Noah,
Reliability can be a very arbitrary attribute to building a career. My short advice to you is anything will be reliable based on your passion for doing what you are doing, being professional, and continually learning your craft (never think you have nothing left to learn). So, being a documentary film maker, if you are tenacious and just start creating shorts to hone your skills, your style, your voice, you can't go wrong. Check out these film makers on youTube for great advice and guidance:
https://www.youtube.com/user/petermckinnon24
https://www.youtube.com/user/dslrvideoshooter/featured
https://www.youtube.com/user/indymogul/featured
https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCPf67c3vUrFlNOERwjHyR2w/featured
https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCpLfM1_MIcIQ3jweRT19LVw
So keep shooting and improving. Partner with others that have more experience. Take jobs that will help you learn something that will build your arsenal of technique, and stay true to your vision. The money eventually comes, but when it does...you most assuredly want to be doing the thing you love, rather than something to just make money.
Last thought, it is always super helpful to have some knowledge of business, not just the film business. The more savvy you are, the more you can grow your film making brand and business. It also puts you in a position to know how to negotiate and run your own shop.
Best regards,
~Law
Jennifer’s Answer
It's great to have a passion for filmmaking and prioritize the artistry and creativity in your work. While it's important to pursue your passion and create films that you love, it's also possible to generate income as a filmmaker. Here are some types of filmmakers that are more likely to make a reliable income in the industry:
1. Commercial Filmmakers: Commercial filmmakers create advertising content for businesses, brands, and products. This type of filmmaking can be lucrative as companies are willing to invest in high-quality video ads to promote their offerings.
2. Corporate Filmmakers: Corporate filmmakers produce videos for internal communication, training, marketing, and promotional purposes for companies and organizations. Corporate clients often have budgets for video production, making this a stable source of income for filmmakers.
3. Event Videographers: Event videographers capture weddings, conferences, concerts, and other live events. There is a demand for event videography services, and professionals in this field can earn income by documenting special occasions.
4. Documentary Filmmakers: As you mentioned, documentary filmmakers can also make money in the industry. Documentaries are commissioned by streaming platforms, TV networks, and production companies, and successful documentaries can generate revenue through distribution deals and screenings.
5. Freelance Filmmakers: Freelance filmmakers work on a project basis for clients such as businesses, agencies, and individuals. By building a strong portfolio and networking with potential clients, freelance filmmakers can create a sustainable income stream.
6. Educational Filmmakers: Educational filmmakers produce instructional videos, training modules, and online courses for educational institutions, e-learning platforms, and corporate training programs. There is a growing demand for educational video content, providing opportunities for filmmakers in this niche.
While it's important to follow your passion and create films that resonate with you, exploring different avenues within the filmmaking industry can help you find opportunities to generate income while pursuing your artistic goals. By diversifying your portfolio and being open to various types of filmmaking projects, you can build a successful career as a filmmaker.
Best of luck!
Jennifer