Expert: Dan Pepper - 8/22/2011

Question
Hi  I've been reading the advice article you wrote for a young man trying to break in to the porn industry, and well, I am looking for similar tips if you would be so kind.  I should probably mention at this point that I'm not at all interested in acting in films or 'scenes', I am looking for work strictly as a set dresser or props person.  My undergraduate degree is in set design and my masters is in technical direction and properties.  I went to CalArts for grad school and lived in Reseda/Northridge during that time, so am very familiar with the area.  I also have a very strong work ethic and a good sense of humor about things (both of which I imagine to be important in this particular field).  I've dealt with MSDS forms and understand the importance of OSHA standards and health/safety measures.  Ideally I would like to work for a more well established company, as I am a little concerned about companies that are not as developed and may skimp on areas such as paycheck or sanitation...I don't know how realistic these concerns are, but I do have them non-the-less.  Also I would absolutely be open to working on gay porn, I am a member of the gay community and well, I would never be 'approached' to be an actor...which is a concern for my partner, not really for me. (I suppose that's sweet of her to worry about).  Anyway, I would truly appreciate any/all advice you might have for me on this little employment endeavor.

Thanks again!

Answer
Amber,

Thanks for your question.  My best advice for getting involved in this industry is to network, network, network.  Join websites and forums like xbiz.com, xbiz.net, ynot.com, and similar sites.  Attend industry expos and seminars and meet as many people as you can (you can see a list of adult industry events here:  http://www.xbiz.com/calendar).

This is a very clubby industry, so working to meet people on the inside is key.  Good luck!