Expert: Amanda J Evans - 8/25/2009

Question
Dear Ms. Evans:

Do you know anything about how I could get into the field of critiquing films or food/restaurants?  I am sure most of this work is done by freelancers, but I am not sure how to get into the field.  I have primarily prose and fiction writing experience and a degree in Creative Writing, but I believe it would be thoroughly enjoyable writing about two subjects I am passionate about.
Thank you!

Answer
Hi Audrey,

Many thanks for your question and my apologies for the delay in answering.  First off congratulations on your achievements so far.

In relation to critiquing films and restaurants this is really something that you can develop for yourself as a freelancer.  I would suggest critiquing a local restaurant or a film at your local cinema and then approaching your local newspaper to see if they would be interested in publishing it.  If this went well you could get a regular gig out of this.

In the long term critiquing is all about getting your name out there and with the internet this is easier than ever to do.  I would suggest that you start a blog or website on this topic and post your critiques here.  You can also post articles for restaurant owners on what to do to get good reviews, what turns customers off etc.  You can focus your website/blog on your own local area/city/county/state and eventually you will be able to offer onsite advertising to restaurants in your area which could be some great additional income for you.

Joining a writers forum is a great way to get started critiquing as many of the writers on these forums are looking to have their writing critiqued so this is a good place to get some experience.  There are always people looking to have their books reviewed too if this interests you.

Review websites are another place that you can hone your skill and many of these are paying.  I'm not sure where you are located so it is hard for me to point you to any particular websites but a search of paid reviews should help.  Also Craigslist is something  should mention as I have seen jobs posted looking for people to review restaurants etc.

I think having your own location specific website/blog could work really well and it is also somewhere to showcase your talents.  

If there is anything further that you wish to ask, please do not hesitate to contact me again.

Best of luck,

Amanda