Expert: Phil Nemy - 11/11/2008

Question
QUESTION: Hey Phil,

My name is Carly and currently i'm my second last year of Highschool.

I was thinking of attending university for film studies, but i'm not sure what to exactly major in?
I'm really talented with the editing aspect of film...mostly music video,but directing sounds like it would be much more worthwhile??

Also i'm thinking of attending college for acting for film/television...i was planning on looking for an agent after highschool, everything i've tried out for so far in auditions i've never actually made it into anything. They all keep saying oh your a great actor but if we could cast more people we would've definately had you in our cast.

Is an agent worth it for the that reason?? my friend had an agent he got one photoshoot and then  really wanted to go into directing instead. He told me it was fun but he changed his mind at last minute.


I really want to get into the entertainment industry(yes i know its EXTREMELY COMPETITIVE. but my passions and talents lie in this industry)

How should i go about being able to accomplish all these expectations of mine?


thanks,
Carly

ANSWER: Carly,

Thanks for writing. The first thing you need to do is decide in what area of the motion picture industry you want to work. Do you want to be an actress or do you want to be an editor? As a young person starting your career, you won't be considered for both. So decide which one you want to pursue and let me know that.

Then based on that info I can advise you further.

Phil




---------- FOLLOW-UP ----------

QUESTION: Well I Have been thinking about it for the past few days and i think i figured out that film editing would probably be my best bet,considering now that i think about it as much as a love acting and etc i think i'm getting myself into it just for the fame....which can backfire and such, plus i'm more talented in editing and get more enjoyment out of it....
So film editing would be my final decision.

I've even started filming my own music videos and short films with my friends as the actors with green screen and everything if that means anything?

Thanks again :)

Carly

Answer
Carly,

Thanks for the info. Okay there's two ways to go about pursuing a career as an editor. The first is to move to Los Angeles and begin applying for any and all editorial production assistant positions that you can find. If you're fortunate enough to be hired, then you'll begin work as an assistant, learn the ropes, and over the course of about 10-15 years, you'll have worked your way up the ladder to become a 1st Assistant Editor.

The other way is to enroll in a college, university, or film school where you can learn the craft of editing, work with cutting edge technology, meet working pros who come is as guest speakers, and leave school with a good resume and experience, industry contacts, and potentially begin your career at an assistant editor level.

The later choice is the better choice as you enter the industry at a higher level and have the potential to starting making better money sooner.

Hope this helps. Good luck!

Phil