Having moved to Atlanta barely over a year ago, and recently celebrating my 26th birthday, I decided to take some time to look back and see how I’ve been doing. They say getting your foot in the door is one of the hardest parts of starting your career, and it’s totally true. I remember it all vividly, and when I look back at where I was then compared to where I am now, it seems insane. I have a great job with people I love hanging out with. I’m no longer scouring craigslist for half (or non) paying gigs. I know a lot of people are still trying to find that sweet spot and I thought about what advice I would give myself in hindsight. The following letter to my “year-ago self” was the result.
David,
You have no idea what you’re in for. You’re flying by the seat of your pants and that’s ok. It’s the only way to break in when you’re starting in a new industry in a new city. You have a few connections and that’s good, but make as many new ones as you can. Those are the ones that will pan out. But don’t think they all will. In fact most won’t. And you’ll end up working crappy jobs to figure that out. You’ll find yourself on set til 2 am working as an electric when you’re supposed to be 2nd AD, even though you originally signed up as a volunteer PA. You’ll know better next time.
Say yes to everything, even if it isn’t even posed as a question. When you’re talking with someone about a gig, and they say “We have something next week, but it isn’t really interesting. Want me to call you when we have something cool?” say, “No, what time is the shoot next week?” (Really trust me on this one!) Say yes to adventures.
Don’t stop doing what you love. If you do find a great job (wink, wink) don’t forget about your passion projects. Keep writing. Start performing. Don’t let your job consume you. Make and keep friends outside of your work. Seeing them will open up opportunities to connect to ideas and people that will help you in your job. The more varied your experience outside of work, the more valuable you’ll be at work. Trust me on this. Remember when you were a volunteer firefighter for a year and half? Well now you can hang lights on the ceiling rig faster and safer than everyone else. Keep adding those experiences.
Keep grinding. It will seem like spinning wheels, but then all of a sudden you’ll get traction and you’re off. And remember, the goal isn’t to get the job. The goal is to get the job to then reach your real goals. Don’t forget that.
I know you have a solid attitude, so don’t lose it. Particularly a year from now. Remember that feeling when you were hungry for work and creative outlets, and don’t take anything for granted once you’ve got your feet under you.
A few other things to remember: 1) Set aside some money you make freelancing for taxes. Seriously. 2) You don’t like tequila, so don’t make exceptions on your birthday thinking that you might actually like tequila. 3) Six Flags season passes are cheaper and more valuable if you have 3 other friends who will get one with you. 4) Clients will be clients, no matter who you work for. 5) Make sure you like the people you work with. It will make a bigger difference than you could ever anticipate.
And a bonus tip for you: Everything will work out. So keep working hard and you’ll get there, or at least here. There’s a plenty ways to go, but here is great. So calm down and have a corn dog. I know you like ’em.
Your biggest fan,
David
PS You may be offended at first when you’re asked to stand in for any talent that is “short” but don’t fight it. Not only will you end up with a wealth of sweet professional photos, and the DP will eventually become one of your best and closest friends in Atlanta.
It doesn’t matter if you’re just getting started, or been around for years. Keep learning, keep growing and never lose sight of the fact that while it may be hectic and stressful, we work in one of the coolest industries around. Here’s a look at a select few projects I’ve been fortunate to be a part of including the earlier referenced wealth of photos below, all taken by the talented Brandon Peterson.
