10 Steps to Getting Your Dream Job in Film Special Effects

The film industry is booming, with more projects being released every year. It's clear that the demand for talented artists in film special effects continues to rise, so it's important to be mindful of how you can make yourself stand out from the crowd. This post will provide actionable steps and resources to help you get your dream job in this competitive industry!

1) Check out the websites of many different studios and productions companies that are relevant to your desired field.

2) Research the different positions available within these companies, and determine which one would suit you best based on what you know about yourself and your skills.

3) Create a portfolio (i.e., a website showcasing work or a reel). If a portfolio is too time consuming for you, at the very least have a demo reel ready.

4) Make yourself an overly detailed and impressive resume, which you can use to apply for these jobs.

5) Attach your resume and/or demo reel to your email.

6) Send out as many applications as possible over the course of several weeks or even months.

7) If you feel you've gained enough experience and/or skills, feel free to apply for jobs that require applicants to be experienced.

8) Contact individuals within the production companies that you've applied to. Offer to meet up with them in person.

9) If they were receptive to the idea of meeting, shoot them a friendly email, expressing interest and that you'd love to help out in any way possible!

10) Use your "I worked" moments as a way of saying "I know how things work," rather than just being a passive observer and listening. If you're patient enough and keep trying, you'll be well on your way to making your dream job a reality! ( Source )

11) Create a website showcasing your portfolio, demo reel, resume, and any other information relevant to you.

12) Submit yourself for jobs on the websites of production companies. Use your website to show off the rest of your portfolio and reel.

13) Don't just rely on submitting yourself for jobs. Initiate contact with the companies that interest you via email or social media.

14) If a position opens up again, you can use your resume and portfolio to apply as well.

15) Create a LinkedIn account (if you don't already have one).

16) Create a Twitter account.

17) Create an Instagram account.

18) Tweet about your project work on the aforementioned sites frequently! 

19) Always provide links to relevant resources for jobs which you're interested in (i.e., websites, YouTube videos, tutorials, etc.) in the "Additional Information" section of your resume or portfolio. This will help people like you who are trying to build their own careers.

20) Always send your portfolio or resume to the right people! You want to ensure you're including your personal contact information in a way that makes sense for their needs. For example, if you're applying for a job in film animation, include your phone number and Skype ID.

21) If an opportunity comes along that you feel is a good fit for you, apply.

22) Network as much as possible. This means attending networking events, connecting via social media with people who can help you get into film jobs, etc.

23) Follow people on social media who are working in the field of special effects that interests you.

24) Research companies. Find out who their clients are.

25) Look for networking opportunities (i.e., conventions, conferences, etc.).

26) Don't limit yourself to just one avenue of communication about your work opportunities. For example, if you're applying for a job, do not only let your social media feeds be the only way that people know about it. Also include emails to the various companies and production companies that you've applied to in your application so they can see how eager you are and why they should hire you!

27) Be persistent, but also patient! The work-life balance can be difficult in this industry. There are many steps that need to be taken before securing a job in this industry. However, if you're persistent and patient, you'll achieve your goal!

28) Set realistic expectations for yourself. In order for you to get a job in film special effects, you need familiarity with the software packages used by the industry. If your expectations are unrealistic or ill-prepared for the job market, then it will be extremely difficult for you to find a job.

29) I highly recommend hiring an assistant or mentor who has worked in this field before. Many people who want to break into the field of special effects can't due to lack of work experience (i.e., learning on their own how things work).

30) There are many small studios that are hiring people to create artwork, models, and special effects for short film and commercial projects. You can find the names of these small studios via the Internet Movie Database (IMDb).

31) Larger production companies should be contacted as well. They'll have more opportunities to hire you, especially if you have previous work experience (i.e., internships that you've worked on).

32) Reach out to print magazines or newspapers as a potential resource in finding film jobs. Many of them also post jobs on their respective websites so that they're not just limited to their print magazines or newspaper subscribers only.

33) Reach out to casting directors who handle films and commercials (i.e., LA Casting , Talent Freeway , etc.).

34) Connect yourself to the film industry with social media. Find companies that are looking for those types of jobs and direct people to your website which showcases your portfolio, demo reel, resume, and other relevant information.

35) Submit yourself for jobs on places like Craigslist (i.e., Actors Access ).

36) If you're trying to get into film VFX, then it will be extremely difficult without experience or software skills. You might want to focus on a specific area of animation (i.e., traditional animation vs. computer animation). It's best if you can find someone in the industry who'll agree to give you a little bit of work experience (i.

Conclusion

There is a tremendous amount of work to be done in the film industry. There are many jobs that need to be filled by people who are creative, resourceful, and reliable. With all of the steps that need to be taken before getting your dream job I'm sure this article has provided you with the proper foundation and encouragement needed to start on your path as a newcomer in this industry. Good luck and most importantly, have fun!

Keep Creating!

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