Think film internships are only offered in Los Angeles and New York? Think again. Truth is, you can get a wonderful film internship virtually anywhere in the United States. Dream about being the next Quentin Tarantino or Angelina Jolie? Whether your inclination is directing, acting, editing, or anything else, you can find film internships to help you learn your craft, improve your resume, and make valuable connections to professionals in your field.
Do a little research - this way, you'll find out that the film industry is present even in your locality. You can even give your mayor's office a ring if you want to know if a particular production is shot near your place. (Many film corporations have been going to cities like Boston and Seattle for a few tax incentives.) You may also refer to Craigslist.org to help you on your hunt for film internships - or search for local film production and special effects companies or television studios. Their homepage may list internship opportunities. If not, give them a ring and ask to speak to whoever is in charge of hiring the crew. Explain where your interests lie and bring your skills to the table, and you may find yourself in a film internship that didn't come into existence before your phone call.
If you're a college student or alumnus, check in with your school's career services department. More often than not, local schools are tapped by these film production firms. You may even make use of the list of alumni to call those who are in the entertainment industry. (Don't be shy about talking to them, they have explicitly agreed to be contacted by other alumni, so chances are, they will be more than happy to help you out.) Even if they do not live in your locality, they may have useful suggestions on where to look for film internships, or know of co-workers in the field who are looking for interns.
If you have gone the film school route, many film schools have established internship programs that will let you earn credits as you break into the business. There is also another choice: go for mentoring and internship programs that'll allow you to be an apprentice of professionals - this is best for those who want to avoid the cost and relocation associated with film school internships.
Finally, the expression "it's who you know" is doubly true in the film industry. Does your mother go to a hairdresser who has a talent agent for a relative? Your roommate's girlfriend's uncle a film producer? The important thing is to let the world know that you are looking for an internship - and you might just be surprised at the connections that you already have.
Do your research, make some calls, and discover the film internship openings right in your area. You may realize that the film internships that you're looking for may just be lurking in the corner.
This article was added on Wednesday 28 October, 2009.
