Entertainment Industry Question 84: I don't have the reel to get work as a DP, but I'm afraid to take other work for money. Am I wrong?
- Created on June 25, 2015
- Written by Jessica Sitomer
Jessica’s Answer:
The people who hire DPs are not the same people who hire you in other classifications. I don't know if the work you're referring to is within the camera department (AC, OP), as a gaffer, or something else. Unless you are working for money as another head of department (Editor, Production Designer, etc.) who are also hired by the people who hire DPs, you're okay.Here's what I suggest: 1. Keep making money in your classification to support yourself and save for the future
2. Build relationships with the people who will know you and hire you as a DP
3. Build your reel as a DP
4. Keep the two separate unless you are 100% sure that your current crew is supportive of your desire to transition
If you have a question, put it in the comment section.
To your success!