If you’re like many Americans, some of your favourite memories are probably of moments you spent in the theatre, leaned back in your chair, munching on popcorn, and enjoying movies on the big screen. Perhaps you even decided you’d like to become a filmmaker yourself. Chances are you realise it will take a lot of work to become the next James Cameron or Quentin Tarantino. While you work on your first cinematic masterpiece, you’ll still need to earn a living. Luckily, there are ways you can put your camera skills to good and practical use to make money in the film industry, all while making a name for yourself.
Build Your Online Brand
Building an online brand is important for any business in most industries, and filmmaking is no exception. Google your name or the name of your production company and see what you find. If you aren’t holding spots in the first few results, you need more branding. Start with your website. Create a professional logo, provide plenty of information about what you do, and include a portfolio along with your contact information. Consider a blog as well, as blogging is a proven way to bring more viewers to your website.
Remember, social media is important as well. Facebook, Instagram, and TikTok all offer video content that includes live streaming. While Facebook and Instagram also focus on photos and written content, TikTok is an excellent place for you to show off your creative filmmaking chops. Try some of the trending hashtags and create something people like enough, and you just might find yourself on the “for you” page and bringing in plenty of new followers. Remember to use the same username and color scheme wherever you can to ensure memorable branding.
Provide Your Services at Corporate Events
If you’re still waiting for your big break, chances are you need ways to earn money in the meantime. Wedding videographers earn an average of $1,800 per event. Typically, you’ll earn money based on how long you’ll spend at the wedding and reception, whether you bring staff with you, and whether you provide extras such as drone footage or USB drives. In addition to your time, equipment, and expertise, you can also charge for gas mileage and other accommodations related to the wedding.
If you decide to become a wedding videographer, remember to draw up a contract for each event. It should detail what services you’ll provide, how much they cost, and the hours you’ll be available, at a minimum. Remember to keep records of the events you work. You’ll need to provide proof of income when handling your taxes; you can use an online pay stub to make this process easier.
Create Virtual Tour Videos
The need for virtual tours of properties for rent or sale has increased exponentially since the COVID-19 pandemic began. In fact, many property owners only provide virtual tours and lease signing to ensure the safety of everyone involved. Of course, anybody can swing a phone camera around a property, but a professional videographer ensures potential buyers know exactly how amazing the property is. Use your skills to highlight beautiful windows, gorgeous hardwood flooring, or anything else that makes a place look unique. The average virtual tour pays about $300.
Work on the News
While wedding videography and virtual tours bring in money, they do require you to work as an independent contractor, which means income isn’t guaranteed. If you want to earn guaranteed wages while you work on your next big movie project, consider becoming a cameraperson for a news station. Working for the news, you’ll cover local reports, protests, political speeches, sports, and more. A cameraperson who has an associate’s or bachelor’s degree in the field can earn a median salary of about $55,000 per year.
Whether you spend your days directing reporters or videotaping romantic moments between newlyweds, remember not to lose sight of your ultimate goal. Practice, patience, confidence, and of course, talent could have you skipping the realtor section for the red carpet before you know it.
Did you know?
- Raindance members save 20% on filmmaking courses?
You can join online >HERE< and access freebies and discounts immediately - Our open courses are FREE for our HND, top-up BA and postgraduate/MA/ students
- You can book a free 1-1 consultation about our full-time degree filmmaking courses HERE
- The Raindance Guarantee: If any filmmaking course fails to meet your expectations, let us know at the break and we will make a full, 100% no-questions-asked refund
- We don’t teach ‘filmmaking’ at Raindance. At Raindance we make filmmakers.
Lewis Robinson is a movie connoisseur, who has found a passion for analyzing films. He worked as a business consultant but in the latter years of his life has focused on writing, especially on things like travel and films which he considers his true passions.
