A filmmaker is an entertainment industry professional who handles multiple aspects of creating a movie or film. Some filmmakers perform largely administrative tasks, while others also perform some creative duties. Filmmakers are usually one of the key decision makers for a movie and film and have substantial control over the process of making the movie and the final product.
What does a filmmaker do?
Filmmakers have several duties that can vary substantially from project to project. Independent filmmakers often have a wider range of responsibilities than those who work for large film studios. Generally, most filmmakers can expect to handle tasks like these:
Finding scripts: Filmmakers usually identify scripts to turn into films or, in some cases, write the scripts themselves.
Managing the budget: Most filmmakers manage the budget for the film project to ensure all aspects of production are properly funded.
Identifying cast members: Most filmmakers participate in the casting project to make sure the actors working on the project align with the filmmaker’s vision.
Hiring crew members: Many filmmakers also help hire crew members for the behind-the-scenes tasks necessary for a film shoot.
Preparing for shooting: Another key responsibility for filmmakers is managing the pre-production planning necessary for a successful film shoot.
Overseeing production: During the actual filming, the filmmaker ensures all members of the cast and crew manage their roles appropriately.
Supervising post-production: After all the filming is finished, the filmmaker helps with the editing and post-production mixing of the film.
Planning the release: Many filmmakers plan their film’s release, including aspects like the premiere screening and marketing materials.
How to become a filmmaker
If you’re interested in becoming a filmmaker, follow these steps to prepare for your career:
Complete high school
Most filmmakers have a high school diploma, and most go on to earn a university degree. While in high school, take advantage of any film or film-related courses your school offers. Watch movies to see what aspects you like and dislike and look for opportunities to develop your filmmaking skill set both in school and outside of school.
Finish a bachelor’s degree
Earning a bachelor’s degree is a great way to gain hands on experience working with film equipment and learn about film history. Look for schools that offer programs in filmmaking specifically or in film generally. Participate in student film projects whenever possible to develop your skill set and build your resume.
Seek an internship
During school breaks or following graduation, look for internship opportunities in the film industry. Any experience you can get, whether it’s as an actor, a boom operator, a costume designer or any other film job, will help you increase your understanding of how a full film set operates and prepare you to work as a filmmaker.
Produce a short film
During or after college graduation, produce your own short film, assuming the responsibilities of a filmmaker. If you’re in school, your program may have funding opportunities available to help you manage the cost of producing a film. If you’ve graduated, look for grant opportunities or see if there are other aspiring industry creatives looking to work together to produce a film.
Develop film related experience
Look for job opportunities in the film industry. Work in a variety of roles to help build your experience and deepen your understanding of how filmmaking functions. Ask to shadow or assist filmmakers on projects to get hands on filmmaking experience.
Build your professional network
Engage with other industry professionals on any films you work on. Develop your professional network, so you’ll have a range of people to call and work with when producing your own film or looking for filmmaking opportunities.
