This guide was created as part of a collaboration between FilmLocal and InFocus Film School, offering aspiring and working filmmakers practical steps to land freelance film jobs in today’s digital production landscape.
The numbers are impressive – Upwork lists over 4,000 video editor jobs at any time, and Mandy’s platform connects almost three million film and video professionals worldwide.
The film industry runs on freelance talent, but many filmmakers struggle to find steady work. The digital world now offers new ways to find filmmaking jobs for both industry newcomers and those seeking freelance production work. Opportunities in movie production jobs range from editing to production assistant roles to producing. ProductionHUB’s 20+ years of experience as a production hub helps thousands of professionals find curated opportunities. While FilmLocal adds plenty of new film production jobs across North America each day as well.
Ready to start your journey in video production jobs? This piece will show you proven ways to secure online film crew jobs, grow your professional network, and become a sought-after professional in this competitive industry. Let’s take a closer look at how to land movie editing jobs and other exciting opportunities!
Start with What You Have: Building Your First Connections
“My advice for anyone wanting to direct is that nobody is going to hand you an opportunity. You have to create your own opportunities and not take no for an answer.” — Marielle Heller, Director and screenwriter (A Beautiful Day in the Neighborhood, Can You Ever Forgive Me?)
Success in filmmaking jobs starts with making the most of your existing resources. Smart filmmakers build their network from what they already have before reaching out further.
Join Local and Online Film Communities
The film industry runs on relationships. Active film communities connect you directly with future collaborators and mentors. Here are some community options to think over:
- Local film clubs create intimate settings where cinema enthusiasts and aspiring filmmakers meet regularly
- Meetup groups connect thousands of film professionals with over 1.1 million members in 1,028 film-focused groups worldwide
- Online platforms like FilmLocal help you find your filmmaking community and connect with actors, writers, and directors
Reddit subreddits such as r/Filmmakers, r/Screenwriting, and r/ShortFilms let you ask for advice and connect with independent filmmakers. Film communities like Filmmakers Community (FMC) also feature job boards for creative professionals such as editors, colorists, and producers.
Get Training Through Film School Programs and Workshops
Film school is more than just a classroom—it’s a launchpad for emerging filmmakers to build a professional portfolio, master essential skills, and connect with industry professionals. At InFocus Film School, our intensive 12-month Film Production Program empowers students to write, direct, and shoot multiple short films, while gaining hands-on experience in key crew positions on their classmates’ sets. We also have programs with a specialized focus on cinematography, screenwriting and more. our programs prepare graduates to thrive in both freelance and full-time roles across the indie and commercial film industries. In fact, many students who land jobs bring their classmates along with them—because when one succeeds, the network grows.
InFocus Film School students on set
Use Facebook Groups to Find Beginner Gigs
Facebook remains a treasure trove for freelance film jobs, especially for newcomers. It’s as easy as typing [city] Film Network or [city] Film Jobs. You could also check InFocus Film School’s public Facebook Group – Canadian Indie Filmmakers
These groups work best when you participate often, share your expertise thoughtfully, and watch for quick-response opportunities. Most entry-level gigs disappear within hours of posting.
Volunteer on Short Films to Gain Experience
Smart volunteering speeds up your professional growth and expands your network. Film festivals need volunteers, Sundance Institute notes that “volunteers are the lifeblood” of their organization.
Local short film productions always need extra hands. This practical experience helps tremendously.
Stay open to different roles while volunteering, from camera crew assistance to set design help. Each position teaches you something new and could lead to future connections. Remember to handle volunteer positions professionally. Punctuality, enthusiasm, and relationship building often lead to paid freelance film jobs.
Use Online Tools to Find Freelance Production Jobs
The digital world has many platforms that help filmmakers find freelance work. These specialized websites are now the go-to resources to find work in the industry.
Top Websites for Freelance Film Jobs
Here are the standout platforms for film production opportunities:
- ProductionHUB links over 700,000 users with verified professionals through its huge network of film, video, and TV industry connections
- Mandy focuses on entertainment industry jobs in multiple countries and offers great-paying opportunities
- Upwork lists hundreds of contract gigs daily
- Behance, Adobe’s platform, lets you show your portfolio to employers right next to job listings
How to Find Film Jobs on Job Boards
Regular job boards can be a great way to get opportunities beyond industry-specific sites.
Start by setting up profiles on LinkedIn, Indeed, and ZipRecruiter. Make sure your portfolio and credentials look complete. Then set up job alerts with specific keywords like “video editor” or “film production” to get updates about new listings.
CrewUp is worth checking out too. This platform matches people for video, film, and photography staffing needs. Their app sends iOS alerts for quick booking requests, so you won’t miss any job opportunities.
Show Your Skills: Portfolio, Reel, and Online Presence
Your portfolio and reel show your filmmaking talents to the freelance market. A compelling showcase of your work boosts your chances of getting freelance film jobs and advancing your film editor career.
What to Include in Your Demo Reel
A powerful demo reel should be brief, ideally 60-90 seconds long instead of a long montage. Recruiters rarely watch your entire reel, so put your best work first to grab attention right away. Your content should have:
- A dynamic opening sequence with music that matches your edits
- Clear labels showing projects and your role
- Only work that shows your specific skills, not team contributions
On top of that, it helps to make specific reels for different roles rather than one generic showcase. An editing reel should highlight structure and pacing, while cinematography reels should showcase visual style and composition. Directing reels should capture emotion and strong actor performances, etc.
Using Social Media to Showcase Your Work
Social media has changed how filmmakers connect with potential clients. Instagram works great for cinematographers who share stills, while YouTube suits editors who want to show their techniques.
You should match content to each platform’s strengths: lighting setups go on Instagram, project updates on Twitter, and detailed tutorials on YouTube. Regular posting beats quantity. Share quality content three times weekly to grow your following.
Behind-the-scenes content catches viewers’ attention. This approach shows both your work and proves your expertise. For freelance video editors, sharing snippets of your editing process or before-and-after comparisons can be particularly effective.
Reach Out and Get Noticed
Landing freelance film jobs takes more than just networking, you need to proactively connect with potential collaborators and clients. Many find cold emails daunting, yet industry professionals confirm that effective outreach often changes the trajectory of film careers.
How to Email or Message Potential Collaborators
Your response rates will skyrocket with customized messages. Here’s what works when you contact industry professionals:
- Give a quick intro and state why you’re reaching out
- Point out their specific work that caught your eye
- Make it brief, pros usually skim emails quickly
- Add relevant portfolio or reel links
- Close with a clear next step
Of course, mentioning mutual connections upfront helps since referred contacts receive way more responses than cold outreach.
What to Say When Reaching Out for Advice
Requesting informational interviews works better than directly asking for jobs. This strategy shows you’re genuinely interested beyond just immediate opportunities.
Start by explaining your specific reason for reaching out. Then ask targeted questions about their career journey or seek guidance about specific filmmaking aspects. Show you value their time.
Following Up and Staying On Their Radar
Follow up about a week after your original contact if you haven’t heard back. Notwithstanding that, timing is crucial. Too quick feels pushy while too slow seems like an afterthought.
Once you’ve connected, keep relationships strong through meaningful check-ins. Mark your calendar to reach out every 4-6 months, even with a quick note congratulating them on recent wins. This keeps you fresh in their minds when opportunities pop up.
Success in landing freelance film work comes from steady, professional communication rather than one-off networking attempts.
The Filmmaker’s Path Forward
Success in freelance film jobs demands persistence and focused effort. This piece shows you the key steps to build your career in this competitive industry. Your journey begins with local film communities and Facebook groups, where volunteer work provides valuable experience.
ProductionHUB, Mandy, and Upwork are great platforms that match your skills with freelance production jobs. A strong portfolio and demo reel showcase your abilities to potential clients. Make them focused and professional.
Your success as a freelance filmmaker largely depends on reaching out to others. Direct messages, timely follow-ups, and strong relationships keep you in decision-makers’ minds. The film industry runs on connections. Your networking efforts will grow stronger over time.
Getting steady work might feel tough initially, but these tested approaches will create momentum. New jobs bring new relationships. Projects enhance your portfolio’s strength. Each connection widens your professional network. Soon enough, you’ll move from job hunting to choosing projects that align with your creative vision and career goals.
Whether you’re interested in film production jobs, video editing, or live broadcast opportunities, the skills and strategies outlined here will help you navigate the exciting world of filmmaking jobs. Remember, every successful filmmaker started somewhere, and with persistence and the right approach, you can build a thriving career in this dynamic industry.
To keep advancing your career, check out InFocus Film School’s hands-on training options or visit FilmLocal.com for fresh freelance jobs posted daily.