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By Oscar Gonzalez
The entertainment industry is one of the most competitive and rewarding fields to work in. Whether you want to be a model, an actor, a director, a screenwriter, or any other creative role, you will need to have talent, passion, and perseverance to succeed. But how do you get started in such a crowded and fast-changing market? Here are some tips to help you break into the entertainment industry in 2023.
1. Consider educational programs
Some entertainment jobs require specific training. Pursuing film school or learning through industry-specific trade schools can help you gain the knowledge and expertise needed for a career in entertainment. For example, if you want to be a cinematographer, you might want to study camera techniques, lighting, and editing. If you want to be a screenwriter, you might want to learn about story structure, dialogue, and genre conventions. However, formal education is not always necessary or sufficient. You can also learn by doing, watching, reading, and experimenting on your own.
2. Be willing to take entry-level work
One of the best ways to get your foot in the door of the entertainment industry is to start from the bottom and work your way up. Entry-level jobs can help you gain experience, build your resume, and make connections with people who can help you advance your career. For example, you could be a production assistant, an extra, an intern, or a volunteer on a film set or a studio. These jobs may not be glamorous or well-paid, but they can expose you to different aspects of the industry and give you an opportunity to showcase your skills and work ethic.
3. Get a start in performing as an extra
If you want to be a model or an actor, one of the easiest ways to get some exposure and experience is to be an extra in movies, TV shows, commercials, or music videos. Being an extra can help you get familiar with the casting process, the set environment, and the camera angles. It can also help you build your portfolio and network with other performers and crew members. However, being an extra is not enough to launch your career as a model or an actor. You will also need to have a professional headshot, a resume, and a demo reel that showcase your look and talent.
4. Intern or volunteer
Another way to get into the entertainment industry is to intern or volunteer for a company or organization that is related to your field of interest. For example, if you want to be a director, you could intern for a production company or a film festival. If you want to be a producer, you could volunteer for a crowdfunding platform or a nonprofit organization that supports filmmakers. Interning or volunteering can help you learn new skills, gain insights into the industry trends and challenges, and meet mentors and peers who can guide you and support you.
5. Network
Networking is essential for breaking into the entertainment industry. You never know who might be able to help you land your next gig or introduce you to someone who can. Networking can happen online or offline, formally or informally. You can network by attending events such as film festivals, workshops, panels, screenings, parties, or mixers. You can also network by joining online communities such as forums, groups, blogs, podcasts, or social media platforms that are relevant to your niche. When networking, remember to be respectful, genuine, and curious. Ask questions, listen actively, and offer value. Don’t be afraid to follow up, keep in touch, and ask for referrals.
6. Go where work is plentiful
Location matters when it comes to breaking into the entertainment industry. Some cities have more opportunities than others for certain types of jobs. For example, Los Angeles, New York, Atlanta, Toronto, and Vancouver are some of the major hubs for film and TV production in North America. If you want to work in these markets, you might want to consider relocating there or traveling there frequently. However, you don’t have to limit yourself to these places. There are also other emerging markets around the world that offer diverse and exciting opportunities for entertainment professionals. For example, China, India, Brazil, and Nigeria are some of the fastest-growing media and entertainment markets in the world.
7. Cultivate your passion
Breaking into the entertainment industry can be challenging, rewarding, and frustrating at times. You will face rejection, competition, criticism, and uncertainty along the way. To overcome these obstacles and stay motivated, you need to have a passion for what you do. Passion is what drives you to pursue your dreams, to improve your craft, and to create something meaningful and original. Passion is also what makes you stand out from the crowd and attract the attention of your audience and your collaborators.
8. Stay on top of the trends
The entertainment industry is constantly evolving and changing. New technologies, platforms, formats, genres, and audiences are emerging and influencing the way content is created and consumed. To succeed in this industry, you need to be aware of the current and future trends and adapt accordingly. You need to be flexible, innovative, and versatile. You need to be able to create content that is relevant, engaging, and diverse. You need to be able to reach and connect with your target market across different channels and devices.
Breaking into the entertainment industry is not easy, but it is possible. With the right attitude, skills, and strategy, you can achieve your goals and make your mark in this exciting and dynamic field. Remember, there is no one path or formula for success. You have to find your own way, your own voice, and your own niche. The journey may be long and hard, but it will also be fun and rewarding. Good luck!