what is the best training to have for a producer (film/tv or photography) job?

Networking is your best bet. Realize that you are going to have to be persistent, fearless and resourceful in pursuing your goal of working in these highly competitive industries. Also realize that this is going to take some time.

Do you know anyone connected in anyway to the film or television industry? If so, talk with them about who and what they know. If you do not know anyone, go out and meet some people.

Try to get informational interviews with people who know how things work in film and television. Since you are an art director, contact set designers and art directors to see if you can come and observe their work for a few hours. If you find someone you connect with, see if they would allow you to work as an unpaid assistant for a week. Learn as much as you can and meet as many people as possible.

The goal is to eventually get any type of an assistant position that will give you a chance to learn lots and to move up over time.

Here are a few other suggestions:

Find out the names of companies in your area that produce television commercials. You are already an art director— try to get an appointment with someone to discuss their work and your interests in television and film.

The American Society of Assistant Cinematographers' website has industry information, a chat room, and a discussion/message board. You can post messages about what you are trying to do and ask for advice and help.

http://www.asac.bizhosting.com/frameindex.html

Reel Women is another organization that might be a resource. http://www.reelwomen.org/

Local arts organizations typically have message boards where filmmakers looking for free or low cost help making a film will post a notice. These are great opportunities to gain some experience and to meet people. Eventually you may be able to work as a producer on some projects, helping you to build a demo reel of your work.

Some states have film offices or commissions to encourage filmmakers to bring their projects to that state. These are another resource you can contact.

Make sure you always have business cards and resumes handy. You never know when you might have a chance to hand them out.

In the meantime, while you are networking, try to learn as much as you can about every aspect of film and television. Read everything you can and become highly knowledgeable about what is going on in all types of media. Study film and television history. Look for workshops, exhibits, and screenings that could add to your knowledge.

Keep in mind, that as an art director, you already have marketable skills and valuable experience. You are now trying to bring your abilities into a different environment and add to what you already can do.

Work hard, make the most of even the tiniest opportunities, and believe in yourself. When you hit an obstacle, get creative and find another path. Good luck!

Patricia Boman, Managing Partner

Art + Design Educational Advisors, LLC

pboman@artdesignea.com

www.artdesignea.com

School!

I HAVE school training, and its hard to break into it.