Advancing Linux motion picture technology
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Linux Movies Group Advancing Linux motion picture technology |
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We are a free industry group for those interested in Linux motion picture technology. We are the place to get answers about Linux motion picture technology and production.
From time to time I get this question from artists and programmers: How do I break into Hollywood?
There's an old saying in Hollywood, "Don't call us; we'll call you". That is unfortunately, quite true. So the question is, how to make them call you?
Artists create a portfolio, a body of work to make themselves interesting. The bad news is few would-be artists achieve a good portfolio, and not all of those who do succeed at getting work with it.
As a writer and software designer myself I face the same challenge. That article you read that prompted you to contact me is part of my portfolio. Sometimes people see the articles I write or the projects I work on and decide I'm who they need for a job. Then they contact me out of the blue like you did. If I'm lucky I will get paid to add a project to my portfolio, leading to more opportunities.
Like a resume, what you show in your portfolio effects what opportunities are offered. My primary interest is motion picture software. I lead the open source CinePaint project. Nobody offered me that as a job. I did it at my own risk to build my portfolio -- and also because I wanted to. Maybe I can make money at it, too.
The tools you use are relatively unimportant. Focus instead on the sort of projects you want to work on in the future. What tools do you need to create that kind of work for your portfolio?
You also need a crystal ball, to anticipate what will be a hot property a year or more from now. What's hot now may be cold by the time you are ready. Look for something exciting that shows growth potential. Whatever you choose pick something with passion. The journey is hard if you don't love it.
There's a second old saying in Hollywood, "It's who you know". Some go to film school so they build relationships with future film directors. But, there are other ways.
Let's say for example you want to work on digital oceans, that you are fascinated by water. How might you find an opportunity to meet someone? At the Linux Movies conference track I'm chairing in Los Angeles [on Feb 18, 2003] Asylum Visual Effects happens to be talking about digital oceans, among many other cool things happening. If you had good water animation in your portfolio you could buttonhole the speaker afterwards and ask if Asylum is looking for someone like you. They may be thrilled. How many artists are nutty about water? If your work is good enough they might offer an interview (if they are hiring), or know someone else interested. When you get into a specialty everybody tends to know everybody.
It takes hard work, expense, insight, patience, and luck. It is a tough field. A lot of other talented dedicated people want to do the same thing.
Hope this helps!
Robin