Freelance filmmaking is an industry in which a single person decides to dedicate time and effort to making television or movies. It is a combination of creative and business talent.
Can you describe your approach?
When I started out, I was in a long-term partnership and business of shooting, editing and selling the films that I made. From there, I found myself in my own business, setting up and running my own productions and selling my own films to distributors in a way that I never had before.
How did you approach working as an independent filmmaker?
It is an exciting business to work in, but you don’t have to be a professional filmmaker to succeed! But being an independent filmmaker means you can have your own vision and own direction, and that you have the freedom to set your own prices, to hire your own crew (with benefits) and to make your own distribution and sale model.
Who is your customer?
My customer is the distributor or distributor partner who chooses to distribute my content. If I get them on board, they are very supportive.
How do you go about finding customers?
Every distributor I’ve ever worked with has had a very distinct culture, and my job is to help them achieve that culture (both on and off the air). If it’s a network or media outlet, then they have great people who talk to them and create relationships that can ultimately lead to them becoming a distribution partner. And if it’s a small production, then I’ll work with one of the producers to help make the process happen. Ultimately, that’s what I do: create a culture of respect and honesty that my clients will recognize when they are watching my films one day.
How do you go about finding distributors?
The first step is to find an agent and discuss why you’re making independent films or documentaries. Next, you might want to start your own agency or company and explore the possibilities there. Then, once each agency and firm I’ve worked with has started getting interested in supporting independent filmmakers, they’re eager to work with your independent company.
What’s the biggest obstacle to achieving success as an independent filmmaker?
It’s not about “getting in front of the camera,” it’s about “getting the camera in front of you.” There is a lot of competition in this business, and that’s what makes it so exciting. To succeed you just have to keep making quality films. And I can’t tell you how
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