The term "professional" is frequently used by independent filmmakers, but what does it truly mean to be a professional in the filmmaking industry? This article delves into the essence of professionalism, the importance of a paycheck, and how adopting a professional attitude can transform your career.
The simplest and most definitive answer to what qualifies someone as a professional is a paycheck. While many people create films, the distinction of being a professional comes from being compensated for your work. According to the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics, the median annual wage for producers and directors was $76,400 in May 2020 (BLS).
Becoming a professional isn't just about receiving a paycheck; it's about adopting a professional mindset. This attitude is encapsulated in the belief: "I work in the movie business. I do good work, and I must be paid for it." This mindset is crucial regardless of the project's budget, whether it's a high-budget blockbuster or a low-budget indie film.
You don't need years of experience to adopt a professional attitude. You can start right now. A professional attitude aligns your thoughts and actions towards one goal: being paid what your work is worth. This alignment not only improves the quality of your work but also accelerates the time it takes for you to start receiving paychecks.
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When you adopt a professional attitude, your unconscious mind works in harmony with your conscious efforts, steering every action and memory towards delivering high-quality work. This not only enhances your skills but also makes you more marketable.
A professional attitude allows your natural love for filmmaking to flourish. Until you adopt this mindset, you may find yourself floundering, unable to achieve the level of success you desire.
Some people believe that a professional is someone with a lot of experience or natural talent. However, according to Webster's Revised Unabridged Dictionary, a professional is "a person who prosecutes anything professionally, or for a livelihood, and not in the character of an amateur." Without a paycheck, extensive experience merely makes you a hobbyist.
While talent and skill are important, they do not define professionalism. The defining quality of a professional is being paid for your work. It's common to hear, "You have so much talent, you're a real pro," but true professionalism is validated by compensation.
In the world of filmmaking, the term "professional" is often misunderstood. While talent and experience are valuable, the defining characteristic of a professional is being paid for your work. By adopting a professional attitude, you can improve the quality of your work, accelerate your career, and ultimately fulfill your artistic passions.
May you earn many substantial paychecks in your filmmaking journey.
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