No matter where you're located in the country, breaking into the film industry takes time, perseverance, and patience.
Here's what you can do:

1. Volunteer major productions are looking to hire people with experience. But how do you get experience if you can't get hired because you have none? Volunteer on a student or independent project. Contact film programs at colleges and organizations to see if there is a need for volunteers. Go to accredited programs for a list of programs and helpful links for local organizations.
2. Create a (film-friendly) resume. As mentioned above; the entry-level position in most departments is a production assistant. Qualities production assistants have are problem-solving skills, adaptability, working well under pressure, resourcefulness, a positive attitude, and the ability to get along with a variety of people. Identify what job competencies you have in your current line of work that match those of a production assistant and accentuate them on your resume. A resume is also where previous volunteer or related coursework can be mentioned. Don't forget to list a few references who can speak to your ability to work in the film industry or about the qualities that make a good production assistant. Once you've completed your resume, send it out to local production companies. Be sure to follow up.
3. Take a class and read about the industry. Enroll in a class at local college or film organization to learn about the industry. To find out more about programs in your area, go to helpful links and accredited programs. Check out books on the industry or subscribe to screen magazine, filmmaker magazine, or update.
4. Network. Try to meet as many crew members and attend events related to the local film industry. Schedule an informational interview with an established crew member to learn more about the industry and their profession. Go to helpful links to connect with local film organizations in your area that can assist you.

Yes, in order to be approved for the Reel-Crew® Database, you must have at least one credit in the internet movie database. If you do not have a credit, you can be listed as an intern for possible internship possibilities. Are there any programs in Ohio that offer film production courses? Yes, there are several programs in the state. They offer a range of concentrations from film theory to film production. To find out more about the offerings near you go to accredited programs.

Ohio has a wonderful local talent pool and numerous resources for those interested in acting. Check out local community theaters, community education classes, and local colleges/universities for program offerings. If you already have some acting experience, you may want to begin with a local talent agency. Reputable agencies will not charge fees until you receive work and will never charge you to audition.

The Ohio Film Office is the initial point of contact for film productions interested or already committed to filming in the state. Listing your services can help you get your name or business in front of the key decision makers early. To list your services go to the Reel-Crew Page, and register.

The Ohio Film Office will post in our news section about new opportunities for film within the state. Also, you can check our useful links section for job and message boards related to film production.

Often productions will have an office set up but are not ready to take calls. With only a limited amount of time to prep their shoots, they cannot always field calls. Once they make the contact information public, the number will be available. By listing with the Ohio Film Office Reel-Crew Database, your contact information will be passed along to the production if requested.

Yes, the Ohio Film Office assists independent and student filmmakers. Part of the Ohio Film Office's mission is to support local talent and help to advance homegrown film productions. Please contact us at (614) 644-5156, to learn more about how we can help you and for local resources around the state.