We understand you are eager to get into the industry, but like any other career it takes time, energy, persistence and more often than not it involves starting at the bottom and working your way up. Over the years, we have seen hundreds of people make it in the business. In an effort to help your search, the Illinois Film Office has put together some suggestions that might help.

We wish you well...

• A strong, literate cover letter is very important, especially for college graduates. You need to sell yourself and whatever skills you have in this people oriented business that involves long hours and many demands. Clearly lay out what you are and why you are appropriate for this business.
• Start your job search in areas where you have a realistic chance. Send resumes to companies that produce commercial, industrial or educational films. People who start in these areas often crossover to television and features, but to aim for features and television while attempting to gain experience is not reasonable and in all likelihood will be met with rejection.
• Take any entry level job, no matter how remote, and do the best job you can and meet everyone. Perhaps more than any other business, who you know may be the fastest route to your destination.
• Consider subscribing to publications such as Screen Magazine (312-640-0800). These magazines will keep you up to date and informed on what is happening in the Chicago film and video industry.
• Immerse yourself in the industry. Go to seminars and workshops and get involved in film-related organizations such as Women in Film and the Independent Feature Project (312-587-1818). Again, get to know as many people in the industry as you can and ask them to help you.
• If you can afford to, volunteer your services on a commercial or film/television production. It will give you experience and put you around the people you need to know. Check with your school to see if you can get credit for volunteering.
• Be polite, professional and remember you need them, not vice versa. Concentrate on ways you can be an asset to the operation.
• Call the Illinois Film Office Hotlines:
  312-814-7155 - Crew
  312-814-9605 - Casting

Your Property In A Film

Points to remember when working with filmmakers

• Ask how many days and what hours the company will be in your town/building/site, etc.
• Find out what is being filmed. Have them describe the scenes completely.
• Will there be an advance group coming in to prepare the site for the film crew?
• How many people can you expect to be involved with the production?
• Is an assembly or staging area required for equipment or personnel?
• Where will the production vehicles park?
• Will an extra power source be used for lighting, or will access to an internal source be required?
• How much additional security, police or other personnel will be required?
• Will there be alterations to property?
• Will any areas be closed off to the public?
• Where will the cast and crew be fed their meals?
• What is the best point of access for the filmmakers and their equipment?
• It is always easier if there is only one contact person at the location and with the company.
• How soon will things be restored if need be?
• Make sure they return the property to its original condition.

Regarding insurance...Ask to see proof of:

• Third party property damage
• Personal injury/liability
• Hold harmless agreement (will insure against any and all liability claims)
• Comprehensive general liability

Location Agreement

• You can put riders on the contract. Be prepared that it may take additional approval time.
• The agreement allows for a company to come back if necessary at a mutually agreeable time.
• Feel free to take photos of the area to be used for filming before the company comes to use as a reference later if needed.
• Let the company know of any restrictions at the initial meeting.

Try to be flexible with the production companies and realize that schedule changes are not uncommon.

Please do not hesitate to contact the Illinois Film Office.
call 312-814-3600 if you have any questions or problems.