{"id":150188,"date":"2021-03-05T12:20:00","date_gmt":"2021-03-05T18:20:00","guid":{"rendered":"https:\/\/www.premiumbeat.com\/blog\/?p=150188"},"modified":"2021-03-05T12:15:17","modified_gmt":"2021-03-05T18:15:17","slug":"video-about-meat-changed-my-view-filmmaking","status":"publish","type":"post","link":"https:\/\/www.premiumbeat.com\/blog\/video-about-meat-changed-my-view-filmmaking\/","title":{"rendered":"How a Video About Cooking Meat Changed My View of Filmmaking"},"content":{"rendered":"\n<h2 class=\"wp-block-heading\" id=\"h-let-s-explore-the-multiple-tiers-of-filmmaking-where-you-currently-fit-in-and-how-you-can-break-into-the-next-level-of-your-craft\"><span id=\"lets-explore-the-multiple-tiers-of-filmmaking-where-you-currently-fit-in-and-how-you-can-break-into-the-next-level-of-your-craft\">Let&#8217;s explore the multiple tiers of filmmaking, where you currently fit in, and how you can break into the next level of your craft.<\/span><\/h2>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\" id=\"h-finding-your-place-and-comfort-level-within-filmmaking-can-be-important-i-want-to-break-down-the-multiple-levels-tiers-of-the-craft-from-newbie-to-hollywood-and-a-few-steps-in-between-this-might-help-you-find-where-you-currently-fit-in-and-possibly-how-to-break-into-the-next-step-of-your-productions\">Finding your place and comfort level within filmmaking is important. I want to break down the multiple levels\/tiers of the craft, from newbie to Hollywood, and a few steps in-between. This might help you find where you currently fit in and possibly how to break into the next step of your productions.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\" id=\"h-ok-i-know-the-title-of-this-article-is-a-bit-weird-but-just-stay-with-me-for-a-moment-and-i-can-explain-i-recently-came-across-this-video-on-levels-of-cooking-meat-by-the-youtube-channel-internet-shaquile-who-was-inspired-by-a-series-by-wired-that-breaks-down-specific-skills-into-specific-levels-of-expertise-by-breaking-down-these-skills-or-professions-into-segmented-tiers-we-re-able-to-better-understand-what-makes-them-different-and-hopefully-how-to-get-to-that-next-step\">Okay, I know the title of this article is a bit weird, but just stay with me for a moment and I can explain. I recently came across this video on levels of cooking meat by the YouTube channel <a href=\"https:\/\/www.youtube.com\/watch?v=XWpFHgTD3RE&amp;t=124s&amp;ab_channel=InternetShaquille\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noreferrer noopener\" data-wpel-link=\"external\">Internet Shaquile<\/a>, who was inspired by a <a href=\"https:\/\/www.youtube.com\/watch?v=8T3cxSySI2Q&amp;t=0s&amp;ab_channel=WIRED\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noreferrer noopener\" data-wpel-link=\"external\">Wired<\/a> series that breaks down specific skills into specific levels of expertise. By breaking down these skills or professions into segmented tiers, we\u2019re able to better understand what makes them different and, hopefully, how to get to that next step.\u00a0<\/p>\n\n\n\n<figure class=\"wp-block-embed is-type-video is-provider-youtube wp-block-embed-youtube wp-embed-aspect-16-9 wp-has-aspect-ratio\"><div class=\"wp-block-embed__wrapper\">\n<span class=\"embed-youtube\" style=\"text-align:center; display: block;\"><iframe loading=\"lazy\" class=\"youtube-player\" width=\"640\" height=\"360\" src=\"https:\/\/www.youtube.com\/embed\/XWpFHgTD3RE?version=3&#038;rel=1&#038;showsearch=0&#038;showinfo=1&#038;iv_load_policy=1&#038;fs=1&#038;hl=en-US&#038;autohide=2&#038;wmode=transparent\" allowfullscreen=\"true\" style=\"border:0;\" sandbox=\"allow-scripts allow-same-origin allow-popups allow-presentation allow-popups-to-escape-sandbox\"><\/iframe><\/span>\n<\/div><\/figure>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">Many of these styles of video break a specific subject into nine or more steps, but we\u2019ll stick to five. I think these five tiers are clear enough to show the differences at each level, but not nitpicking the minute differences that may occur somewhere around level 3.5. Additionally, in the later tiers, we\u2019ll break down the pros and cons that can be found in each tier and information you may want to consider before really trying to break into the next level.&nbsp;<\/p>\n\n\n\n<hr class=\"wp-block-separator\"\/>\n\n\n\n<h3 class=\"wp-block-heading\" id=\"h-tier-1-newbie\"><span id=\"tier-1-newbie\">Tier 1: Newbie<\/span><\/h3>\n\n\n\n<figure class=\"wp-block-image size-large\"><a href=\"https:\/\/www.premiumbeat.com\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2021\/03\/Online-Businesswoman-1.jpg\" data-wpel-link=\"internal\"><img loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\" width=\"755\" height=\"503\" src=\"https:\/\/www.premiumbeat.com\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2021\/03\/Online-Businesswoman-1.jpg\" alt=\"Online Businesswoman\" class=\"wp-image-150883\" srcset=\"https:\/\/vip-go.premiumbeat.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2021\/03\/Online-Businesswoman-1.jpg 755w, https:\/\/vip-go.premiumbeat.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2021\/03\/Online-Businesswoman-1.jpg?resize=300,200 300w, https:\/\/vip-go.premiumbeat.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2021\/03\/Online-Businesswoman-1.jpg?resize=277,185 277w, https:\/\/vip-go.premiumbeat.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2021\/03\/Online-Businesswoman-1.jpg?resize=359,239 359w, https:\/\/vip-go.premiumbeat.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2021\/03\/Online-Businesswoman-1.jpg?resize=543,362 543w, https:\/\/vip-go.premiumbeat.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2021\/03\/Online-Businesswoman-1.jpg?resize=560,373 560w, https:\/\/vip-go.premiumbeat.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2021\/03\/Online-Businesswoman-1.jpg?resize=150,100 150w\" sizes=\"auto, (max-width: 755px) 100vw, 755px\" \/><\/a><figcaption><em>At this level, anyone with a camera can create a video. Image via <a href=\"https:\/\/www.shutterstock.com\/image-photo\/seller-asian-beautiful-women-owner-small-1672489513\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noreferrer noopener\" data-wpel-link=\"external\">pobpra story<\/a>.<\/em><\/figcaption><\/figure>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">This is the basic level that I can safely assume everyone has some experience in. In the current day and age, everyone has video cameras in their pockets, on their tablets, and maybe built into their fridges. This may have been different even just a decade ago, but now we all have the capability to record high-def video and do it on a daily basis. We all have the ability to film something, create a video, and upload it to our desired platform. I mean, even my grandma has an Instagram account with various scenes featuring her corgi.\u00a0<\/p>\n\n\n\n<figure class=\"wp-block-image size-large\"><a href=\"https:\/\/www.premiumbeat.com\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2021\/03\/Video-on-Phone-1.jpg\" data-wpel-link=\"internal\"><img loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\" width=\"755\" height=\"426\" src=\"https:\/\/www.premiumbeat.com\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2021\/03\/Video-on-Phone-1.jpg\" alt=\"Video on Phone\" class=\"wp-image-150886\" srcset=\"https:\/\/vip-go.premiumbeat.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2021\/03\/Video-on-Phone-1.jpg 755w, https:\/\/vip-go.premiumbeat.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2021\/03\/Video-on-Phone-1.jpg?resize=300,169 300w, https:\/\/vip-go.premiumbeat.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2021\/03\/Video-on-Phone-1.jpg?resize=277,156 277w, https:\/\/vip-go.premiumbeat.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2021\/03\/Video-on-Phone-1.jpg?resize=359,203 359w, https:\/\/vip-go.premiumbeat.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2021\/03\/Video-on-Phone-1.jpg?resize=543,306 543w, https:\/\/vip-go.premiumbeat.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2021\/03\/Video-on-Phone-1.jpg?resize=560,316 560w, https:\/\/vip-go.premiumbeat.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2021\/03\/Video-on-Phone-1.jpg?resize=150,85 150w\" sizes=\"auto, (max-width: 755px) 100vw, 755px\" \/><\/a><figcaption><em>Anyone with a phone can create a video. Image via <a href=\"https:\/\/www.shutterstock.com\/image-photo\/she-recorded-video-by-smart-phone-399167809\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noreferrer noopener\" data-wpel-link=\"external\">jaruthat tangpanichdee<\/a>.<\/em><\/figcaption><\/figure>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">Tier 1 of Internet Shaquille&#8217;s video is essentially cooking meat so that it&#8217;s edible. In the same fashion, the sole act of being able to record a video makes you a newbie. You&#8217;re able to create a video, publish it to the web, and have viewers consume your media.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">I&#8217;d also extend this to include some basic editing, given almost every platform\u2014from <a href=\"https:\/\/www.shutterstock.com\/blog\/best-tools-gear-for-instagram\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noreferrer noopener\" data-wpel-link=\"external\">Instagram<\/a> to <a href=\"https:\/\/www.premiumbeat.com\/blog\/starting-your-tiktok-channel\/\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noreferrer noopener\" data-wpel-link=\"internal\">TikTok<\/a>\u2014has some basic video editing tools included, from trimming to in-app color correction. The videos created by those in the <em>newbie<\/em> category may lack technique, correct exposure, or good framing, but they are (in a literal sense) video creators. A newbie isn\u2019t all too concerned with the rules of video, capturing decent audio, and telling a cohesive story.\u00a0The gear you may find someone in this level using would, of course, be a phone, a GoPro-style camera, or a point-and-shoot-style camera, but not much else in the way of <a href=\"https:\/\/www.premiumbeat.com\/blog\/best-lavalier-microphones-for-video-production\/\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noreferrer noopener\" data-wpel-link=\"internal\">microphones<\/a>, <a href=\"https:\/\/www.premiumbeat.com\/blog\/10-cheap-video-audio-accessories\/\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noreferrer noopener\" data-wpel-link=\"internal\">accessories<\/a>, or dedicated gear.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">If you\u2019re here reading this article, chances are you don\u2019t fit into this category. If I\u2019m wrong and you\u2019re looking for resources to get into filmmaking, you\u2019re already on the right track. There\u2019s no place to go but up from here and breaking into Tier 2 may be the smallest gap between levels.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<hr class=\"wp-block-separator\"\/>\n\n\n\n<h3 class=\"wp-block-heading\" id=\"h-tier-2-the-student\"><span id=\"tier-2-the-student\">Tier 2: The Student<\/span><\/h3>\n\n\n\n<figure class=\"wp-block-image size-large\"><a href=\"https:\/\/www.premiumbeat.com\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2021\/03\/Students-1.jpg\" data-wpel-link=\"internal\"><img loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\" width=\"755\" height=\"327\" src=\"https:\/\/www.premiumbeat.com\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2021\/03\/Students-1.jpg\" alt=\"Students\" class=\"wp-image-150859\" srcset=\"https:\/\/vip-go.premiumbeat.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2021\/03\/Students-1.jpg 755w, https:\/\/vip-go.premiumbeat.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2021\/03\/Students-1.jpg?resize=300,130 300w, https:\/\/vip-go.premiumbeat.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2021\/03\/Students-1.jpg?resize=277,120 277w, https:\/\/vip-go.premiumbeat.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2021\/03\/Students-1.jpg?resize=359,155 359w, https:\/\/vip-go.premiumbeat.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2021\/03\/Students-1.jpg?resize=543,235 543w, https:\/\/vip-go.premiumbeat.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2021\/03\/Students-1.jpg?resize=560,243 560w, https:\/\/vip-go.premiumbeat.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2021\/03\/Students-1.jpg?resize=150,65 150w\" sizes=\"auto, (max-width: 755px) 100vw, 755px\" \/><\/a><figcaption><em>The student learns their craft from a variety of avenues. Image via <a href=\"https:\/\/www.shutterstock.com\/image-photo\/behind-scene-film-crew-studio-montage-1133439203\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noreferrer noopener\" data-wpel-link=\"external\">guruXOX<\/a>.<\/em><\/figcaption><\/figure>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">As you climb your way up from newbie to a creator, there&#8217;s a lot to learn. As I was trying to figure out the language of filmmaking, there were so many avenues I was getting my filmmaking knowledge from\u2014college, YouTube tutorials, local pros, articles, and just experimenting on my own time. The <em>student<\/em> starts to think about the process of filmmaking, how their favorite movies\/TV shows get made, and how they can begin to try the same techniques. Honestly, in filmmaking, you never stop learning. You know where you want to go, you just don\u2019t know how to get there yet, \u201cPatience you must have, my young Padawan.\u201d<\/p>\n\n\n\n<figure class=\"wp-block-image size-large\"><a href=\"https:\/\/www.premiumbeat.com\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2021\/03\/Filmmaking-Students-1.jpg\" data-wpel-link=\"internal\"><img loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\" width=\"755\" height=\"503\" src=\"https:\/\/www.premiumbeat.com\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2021\/03\/Filmmaking-Students-1.jpg\" alt=\"Filmmaking Students\" class=\"wp-image-150861\" srcset=\"https:\/\/vip-go.premiumbeat.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2021\/03\/Filmmaking-Students-1.jpg 755w, https:\/\/vip-go.premiumbeat.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2021\/03\/Filmmaking-Students-1.jpg?resize=300,200 300w, https:\/\/vip-go.premiumbeat.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2021\/03\/Filmmaking-Students-1.jpg?resize=277,185 277w, https:\/\/vip-go.premiumbeat.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2021\/03\/Filmmaking-Students-1.jpg?resize=359,239 359w, https:\/\/vip-go.premiumbeat.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2021\/03\/Filmmaking-Students-1.jpg?resize=543,362 543w, https:\/\/vip-go.premiumbeat.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2021\/03\/Filmmaking-Students-1.jpg?resize=560,373 560w, https:\/\/vip-go.premiumbeat.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2021\/03\/Filmmaking-Students-1.jpg?resize=150,100 150w\" sizes=\"auto, (max-width: 755px) 100vw, 755px\" \/><\/a><figcaption><em>In Tier 2, the student is learning to apply the basic fundamentals of filmmaking. Image via <a href=\"https:\/\/www.shutterstock.com\/image-photo\/thailand-may-192018-unidentified-group-asian-1126619840\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noreferrer noopener\" data-wpel-link=\"external\">smolaw<\/a>.<\/em><\/figcaption><\/figure>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">In Tier 2, the student will start to take the basic fundamentals of filmmaking they\u2019re learning and apply them to their own projects. Tier 2 will start to have a little more cohesiveness into the things they\u2019re filming and how the subjects are presented. You\u2019ll start to fiddle around with an NLE (non-linear editor, iMovie, <a href=\"https:\/\/www.premiumbeat.com\/blog\/7-films-edited-with-premiere-pro\/\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noreferrer noopener\" data-wpel-link=\"internal\">Adobe Premiere<\/a>, <a href=\"https:\/\/www.premiumbeat.com\/blog\/how-to-sync-video-with-professional-audio-in-final-cut-pro-x-the-dslr-workflow\/\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noreferrer noopener\" data-wpel-link=\"internal\">Final Cut X<\/a>) and pick out shots to include in your edit, rather than uploading the raw video file straight to YouTube. This shows a lot more thought and process into the films that you\u2019re creating, but lacks the refinement and technique found in higher levels of filmmaking. <\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">While a student is still learning and may not have access to professional tools, there are still a few specific pieces of gear I&#8217;d associate with this level. A camera would be an entry-level DSLR, like a <a href=\"https:\/\/www.premiumbeat.com\/blog\/6-best-filmmaking-cameras-under-1000\/\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noreferrer noopener\" data-wpel-link=\"internal\">Canon RP or Fujifilm X-T30<\/a>. This would typically be paired with either the camera&#8217;s &#8220;kit lens&#8221; or a few inexpensive lenses, like a budget <a href=\"https:\/\/www.premiumbeat.com\/blog\/best-prime-lenses-for-filmmakers\/\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noreferrer noopener\" data-wpel-link=\"internal\">50mm prime<\/a>. Along the lines of a <a href=\"https:\/\/www.premiumbeat.com\/blog\/the-best-tripods-for-video-professionals\/\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noreferrer noopener\" data-wpel-link=\"internal\">tripod<\/a>, Tier 2 is usually making do with a standard photo tripod rather than a proper fluid head. <\/p>\n\n\n\n<figure class=\"wp-block-image size-large\"><a href=\"https:\/\/www.premiumbeat.com\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2021\/03\/Photographer-Tripod-1.jpg\" data-wpel-link=\"internal\"><img loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\" width=\"755\" height=\"503\" src=\"https:\/\/www.premiumbeat.com\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2021\/03\/Photographer-Tripod-1.jpg\" alt=\"Photographer with Tripod\" class=\"wp-image-150862\" srcset=\"https:\/\/vip-go.premiumbeat.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2021\/03\/Photographer-Tripod-1.jpg 755w, https:\/\/vip-go.premiumbeat.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2021\/03\/Photographer-Tripod-1.jpg?resize=300,200 300w, https:\/\/vip-go.premiumbeat.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2021\/03\/Photographer-Tripod-1.jpg?resize=277,185 277w, https:\/\/vip-go.premiumbeat.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2021\/03\/Photographer-Tripod-1.jpg?resize=359,239 359w, https:\/\/vip-go.premiumbeat.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2021\/03\/Photographer-Tripod-1.jpg?resize=543,362 543w, https:\/\/vip-go.premiumbeat.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2021\/03\/Photographer-Tripod-1.jpg?resize=560,373 560w, https:\/\/vip-go.premiumbeat.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2021\/03\/Photographer-Tripod-1.jpg?resize=150,100 150w\" sizes=\"auto, (max-width: 755px) 100vw, 755px\" \/><\/a><figcaption><em>At this level, your gear will be minimal and low-budget. Image via <a href=\"https:\/\/www.shutterstock.com\/image-photo\/silhouette-photographer-tripod-young-man-taking-723172429\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noreferrer noopener\" data-wpel-link=\"external\">Jaromir Chalabala<\/a>.<\/em><\/figcaption><\/figure>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">This is the stage a lot of aspiring filmmakers reach, but may never leave. They\u2019ll get their own camera, maybe some additional gear, and start learning the basics. Like any craft, getting good at filmmaking not only takes talent, but a lot of work. This is why people fall off. Taking the time and effort to really nail down proper filmmaking techniques, and the work that goes into it, will definitely launch you into Tier 3.&nbsp;<\/p>\n\n\n\n<hr class=\"wp-block-separator\"\/>\n\n\n\n<h3 class=\"wp-block-heading\" id=\"h-tier-3-low-budget-professional\"><span id=\"tier-3-low-budget-professional\">Tier 3: Low-Budget Professional<\/span><\/h3>\n\n\n\n<figure class=\"wp-block-image size-large\"><a href=\"https:\/\/www.premiumbeat.com\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2021\/03\/DSLR-Camera-1.jpg\" data-wpel-link=\"internal\"><img loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\" width=\"755\" height=\"503\" src=\"https:\/\/www.premiumbeat.com\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2021\/03\/DSLR-Camera-1.jpg\" alt=\"DSLR Camera\" class=\"wp-image-150863\" srcset=\"https:\/\/vip-go.premiumbeat.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2021\/03\/DSLR-Camera-1.jpg 755w, https:\/\/vip-go.premiumbeat.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2021\/03\/DSLR-Camera-1.jpg?resize=300,200 300w, https:\/\/vip-go.premiumbeat.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2021\/03\/DSLR-Camera-1.jpg?resize=277,185 277w, https:\/\/vip-go.premiumbeat.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2021\/03\/DSLR-Camera-1.jpg?resize=359,239 359w, https:\/\/vip-go.premiumbeat.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2021\/03\/DSLR-Camera-1.jpg?resize=543,362 543w, https:\/\/vip-go.premiumbeat.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2021\/03\/DSLR-Camera-1.jpg?resize=560,373 560w, https:\/\/vip-go.premiumbeat.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2021\/03\/DSLR-Camera-1.jpg?resize=150,100 150w\" sizes=\"auto, (max-width: 755px) 100vw, 755px\" \/><\/a><figcaption><em>Tier 3 allows you to begin making money from your craft. Image via <a href=\"https:\/\/www.shutterstock.com\/image-photo\/video-content-creating-caucasian-filmmaker-dslr-1606599949\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noreferrer noopener\" data-wpel-link=\"external\">Virrage Images<\/a>.<\/em><\/figcaption><\/figure>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">Once you\u2019ve nailed down techniques and the process, you\u2019ll start to find paying work coming your way. Being able to craft a video and tell a story has value! At this level, the budget will be small. Depending on the project, that range could be a few hundred to a couple thousand. Projects that fit into a low-budget tier could be a music video for a local artist, a quick commercial for the coffee shop down the street, or a featured <a href=\"https:\/\/www.shutterstock.com\/blog\/six-unmissable-tips-to-create-an-effective-instagram-video\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noreferrer noopener\" data-wpel-link=\"external\">Instagram video<\/a>. The clients you\u2019re dealing with don\u2019t have a lot of capital to put toward a fully-featured production, but they know they want something that they can\u2019t create themselves.&nbsp;<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">Once you&#8217;ve reached Tier 3, gear becomes a bit more important. Tier 3 is a balancing act between having gear you can afford, but also making sure that gear will positively impact your work. Cameras in this category start to be classified in the prosumer category to the entry-level professional. The base starting point would be the <a href=\"https:\/\/www.premiumbeat.com\/blog\/streaming-with-blackmagic-pocket-camera\/\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noreferrer noopener\" data-wpel-link=\"internal\">Blackmagic Pocket 4K\/6K<\/a> and could range to something like a <a href=\"https:\/\/www.premiumbeat.com\/blog\/breaking-sony-a7s-iii-is-here-and-youre-probably-going-to-buy-it\/\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noreferrer noopener\" data-wpel-link=\"internal\">Sony A7sIII<\/a>, usually paired with professional-level lenses in the Canon L Series or Sony G-Master line. Pairing a decent fluid head tripod is also important. Luckily, there are a few low-budget, but professional, options from the likes of <a href=\"https:\/\/www.manfrotto.com\/us-en\/290-xtra-kit-alu-3-sec-tripod-with-fluid-head-mk290xta3-2wus\/\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noreferrer noopener\" data-wpel-link=\"external\">Manfrotto<\/a> and <a href=\"https:\/\/benrousa.com\/a2883f-travel-angel-aero-video-tripod-kit-with-leveling-column-and-s4pro-head\/\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noreferrer noopener\" data-wpel-link=\"external\">Benro<\/a>. <\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">The obvious downside to this tier is that there\u2019s not a lot of money in it. You don\u2019t have a lot to spend on the project and the production value can suffer. We\u2019ve all been there. Creatives in this tier can often find themselves struggling to make a product they\u2019re happy with, while also being able to eat at the end of the day. There have been moments where I ended up paying myself just a little less to see a larger benefit in the overall project, or even forgo paying myself so we could create one killer music video with a decent budget.&nbsp;<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">Additionally, the low-budget professional will find themselves wearing basically all of the hats. From writing to directing, shooting, and editing, they\u2019ll have to do it all. This can be a bit exhausting, as all the weight is on one person\u2019s shoulders. Having one person do it all, you&#8217;ll find that parts of the pieces may suffer, as you spend more time on one aspect and not enough on another. Sure, your shots are on-point, but the direction could be a little lacking.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<figure class=\"wp-block-image size-large\"><a href=\"https:\/\/www.premiumbeat.com\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2021\/03\/Photographer-1-1.jpg\" data-wpel-link=\"internal\"><img loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\" width=\"755\" height=\"504\" src=\"https:\/\/www.premiumbeat.com\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2021\/03\/Photographer-1-1.jpg\" alt=\"Photographer\" class=\"wp-image-150867\" srcset=\"https:\/\/vip-go.premiumbeat.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2021\/03\/Photographer-1-1.jpg 755w, https:\/\/vip-go.premiumbeat.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2021\/03\/Photographer-1-1.jpg?resize=300,200 300w, https:\/\/vip-go.premiumbeat.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2021\/03\/Photographer-1-1.jpg?resize=277,185 277w, https:\/\/vip-go.premiumbeat.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2021\/03\/Photographer-1-1.jpg?resize=359,240 359w, https:\/\/vip-go.premiumbeat.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2021\/03\/Photographer-1-1.jpg?resize=543,362 543w, https:\/\/vip-go.premiumbeat.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2021\/03\/Photographer-1-1.jpg?resize=560,374 560w, https:\/\/vip-go.premiumbeat.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2021\/03\/Photographer-1-1.jpg?resize=150,100 150w\" sizes=\"auto, (max-width: 755px) 100vw, 755px\" \/><\/a><figcaption><em>At this level, you&#8217;ll basically be a one-person crew. Image via <a href=\"https:\/\/www.shutterstock.com\/image-photo\/photographer-taking-pictures-studio-pack-shot-1634051707\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noreferrer noopener\" data-wpel-link=\"external\">goodluz<\/a>.<\/em><\/figcaption><\/figure>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">On the other side of the coin, I think there are actually quite a few benefits from being in this tier and you shouldn\u2019t be so quick to want to jump up a notch. In this tier, the low-budget professional is often a jack of all trades, but that comes with a trade off. If you&#8217;re at this level, you\u2019ll find yourself with basically full creative control over the project. Now is the time to experiment and try new techniques within different sectors of the process. Have a style you\u2019ve been wanting to replicate or theme to test? Now is your chance!<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">Get creative with what you have. Ever seen a cooking show where they cook a delicious meal with limited ingredients? Somehow, they make it work and make an awesome meal. Low-budget filmmaking can be just like that. Not being able to afford the latest gear or high-end production equipment is never an excuse for not being creative. Being able to work with what you have at your disposal shows just how creative you can be. The low-budget level will force you to think outside the box and make things work.&nbsp;<\/p>\n\n\n\n<figure class=\"wp-block-image size-large\"><a href=\"https:\/\/www.premiumbeat.com\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2021\/03\/Independent-Filmmaker-1.jpg\" data-wpel-link=\"internal\"><img loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\" width=\"755\" height=\"425\" src=\"https:\/\/www.premiumbeat.com\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2021\/03\/Independent-Filmmaker-1.jpg\" alt=\"Independent Filmmaker\" class=\"wp-image-150868\" srcset=\"https:\/\/vip-go.premiumbeat.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2021\/03\/Independent-Filmmaker-1.jpg 755w, https:\/\/vip-go.premiumbeat.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2021\/03\/Independent-Filmmaker-1.jpg?resize=300,169 300w, https:\/\/vip-go.premiumbeat.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2021\/03\/Independent-Filmmaker-1.jpg?resize=277,156 277w, https:\/\/vip-go.premiumbeat.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2021\/03\/Independent-Filmmaker-1.jpg?resize=359,202 359w, https:\/\/vip-go.premiumbeat.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2021\/03\/Independent-Filmmaker-1.jpg?resize=543,306 543w, https:\/\/vip-go.premiumbeat.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2021\/03\/Independent-Filmmaker-1.jpg?resize=560,315 560w, https:\/\/vip-go.premiumbeat.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2021\/03\/Independent-Filmmaker-1.jpg?resize=150,84 150w\" sizes=\"auto, (max-width: 755px) 100vw, 755px\" \/><\/a><figcaption><em>As a one-person crew, think outside the box and experiment with new ideas. Image via <a href=\"https:\/\/www.shutterstock.com\/image-photo\/young-independent-filmmaker-filming-near-beach-1915085584\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noreferrer noopener\" data-wpel-link=\"external\">ArnavIG<\/a>.<\/em><\/figcaption><\/figure>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">Find your niche! As you progress, you\u2019ll find certain aspects of filmmaking that you enjoy more than others or that you\u2019re naturally better at. This is your chance to give each area a shot and refine what you\u2019d like to focus on. As you move up the tiers, roles become more and more specialized and rely on expertise rather than general knowledge.&nbsp;<\/p>\n\n\n\n<hr class=\"wp-block-separator\"\/>\n\n\n\n<h3 class=\"wp-block-heading\" id=\"h-tier-4-mid-budget-professional\"><span id=\"tier-4-mid-budget-professional\">Tier 4: Mid-Budget Professional<\/span><\/h3>\n\n\n\n<figure class=\"wp-block-image size-large\"><a href=\"https:\/\/www.premiumbeat.com\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2021\/03\/Film-Crew01-1.jpg\" data-wpel-link=\"internal\"><img loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\" width=\"755\" height=\"502\" src=\"https:\/\/www.premiumbeat.com\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2021\/03\/Film-Crew01-1.jpg\" alt=\"Film Crew\" class=\"wp-image-150869\" srcset=\"https:\/\/vip-go.premiumbeat.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2021\/03\/Film-Crew01-1.jpg 755w, https:\/\/vip-go.premiumbeat.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2021\/03\/Film-Crew01-1.jpg?resize=300,199 300w, https:\/\/vip-go.premiumbeat.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2021\/03\/Film-Crew01-1.jpg?resize=277,184 277w, https:\/\/vip-go.premiumbeat.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2021\/03\/Film-Crew01-1.jpg?resize=359,239 359w, https:\/\/vip-go.premiumbeat.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2021\/03\/Film-Crew01-1.jpg?resize=543,361 543w, https:\/\/vip-go.premiumbeat.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2021\/03\/Film-Crew01-1.jpg?resize=560,372 560w, https:\/\/vip-go.premiumbeat.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2021\/03\/Film-Crew01-1.jpg?resize=150,100 150w\" sizes=\"auto, (max-width: 755px) 100vw, 755px\" \/><\/a><figcaption><em>At this level, you can begin creating larger-budget projects. Image via <a href=\"https:\/\/www.shutterstock.com\/image-photo\/behind-scene-film-crew-team-filming-638289757\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noreferrer noopener\" data-wpel-link=\"external\">guruXOX<\/a>.<\/em><\/figcaption><\/figure>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">Mid-budget can be a sort of interesting place. At this level, you\u2019ll find that there\u2019s quite a bit more of a budget for the actual production and you\u2019ll also be able to make a living in the film production industry. This level is where a lot of professional creatives make their day-to-day living and have a career. Projects in this tier may include larger local\/regional commercials, music videos for recognizable musicians, corporate video clients, and indie-shorts or budget features. At this point, the team on a project expands from one to several, with each person on set taking on a more specialized role. Instead of the one-person crew associated with Tier 3, you\u2019ll have a smaller crew composed of (but not limited to) a director, producer, director of photography, camera assistants, gaffer, audio engineer, art director, and production assistant.\u00a0<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">What makes it interesting is that each role may still double up on their responsibilities and be a bit flexible. The director of photography will most likely still be operating the camera or setting up their own lights. The art director may be juggling not only set decoration, but also costuming and makeup. The budget is large enough that everyone can be paid fairly, but not large enough for a giant team of niche roles.\u00a0<\/p>\n\n\n\n<figure class=\"wp-block-image size-large\"><a href=\"https:\/\/www.premiumbeat.com\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2021\/03\/Film-Crew02-1.jpg\" data-wpel-link=\"internal\"><img loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\" width=\"755\" height=\"503\" src=\"https:\/\/www.premiumbeat.com\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2021\/03\/Film-Crew02-1.jpg\" alt=\"Film Crew\" class=\"wp-image-150870\" srcset=\"https:\/\/vip-go.premiumbeat.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2021\/03\/Film-Crew02-1.jpg 755w, https:\/\/vip-go.premiumbeat.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2021\/03\/Film-Crew02-1.jpg?resize=300,200 300w, https:\/\/vip-go.premiumbeat.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2021\/03\/Film-Crew02-1.jpg?resize=277,185 277w, https:\/\/vip-go.premiumbeat.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2021\/03\/Film-Crew02-1.jpg?resize=359,239 359w, https:\/\/vip-go.premiumbeat.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2021\/03\/Film-Crew02-1.jpg?resize=543,362 543w, https:\/\/vip-go.premiumbeat.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2021\/03\/Film-Crew02-1.jpg?resize=560,373 560w, https:\/\/vip-go.premiumbeat.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2021\/03\/Film-Crew02-1.jpg?resize=150,100 150w\" sizes=\"auto, (max-width: 755px) 100vw, 755px\" \/><\/a><figcaption><em>At this level, you&#8217;ll have a full crew and a larger budget to work with. Image via <a href=\"https:\/\/www.shutterstock.com\/image-photo\/cameraman-operator-discuss-shooting-process-director-1241136271\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noreferrer noopener\" data-wpel-link=\"external\">Elizaveta Galitckaia<\/a>.<\/em><\/figcaption><\/figure>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">A big benefit with a larger budget is using the proper tools for the job. Instead of making-do with a homemade dolly or an entry-level camera, you\u2019ll be shooting on a proper camera and support gear. Tier 3 may be the DSLR\/mirrorless tier, where Tier 4 would have something like a <a href=\"https:\/\/www.premiumbeat.com\/blog\/canon-introduces-the-eos-c300-mark-iii\/\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noreferrer noopener\" data-wpel-link=\"internal\">Canon C300 Mark III<\/a> or <a href=\"https:\/\/www.premiumbeat.com\/blog\/new-red-komodo-camera\/\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noreferrer noopener\" data-wpel-link=\"internal\">RED Komodo<\/a>, with a set of <a href=\"https:\/\/www.premiumbeat.com\/blog\/photo-vs-cinema-lenses\/\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noreferrer noopener\" data-wpel-link=\"internal\">cine-primes<\/a>. A set will also typically have a full lighting package to properly light any scene they&#8217;re needing to film. Audio will also see a big upgrade, typically with a dedicated audio engineer and their own audio kit, Sennheiser MK 50 boom mic, set of wireless <a href=\"https:\/\/www.premiumbeat.com\/blog\/best-lavalier-microphones-for-video-production\/\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noreferrer noopener\" data-wpel-link=\"internal\">lavs<\/a>, and a Zoom F8n <a href=\"https:\/\/www.premiumbeat.com\/blog\/affordable-field-recorders-for-filmmakers\/\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noreferrer noopener\" data-wpel-link=\"internal\">field recorder<\/a>. The crew should have the expertise to utilize professional film tools at their disposal to turn out professional-level work.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">As you move up the ranks, collaboration is vital in good filmmaking. Tier 4 comes with a few tradeoffs. You\u2019ll be giving up some creative control over a project, but gaining the experience and expertise of others on your set. The reality is, you won\u2019t be an expert in every role needed on a proper set, so passing off that responsibility to others can elevate the overall product. Instead of juggling all aspects of the project, it can allow you to focus on your role and do it well. Additionally, having other creatives around you providing their own input and ideas can improve your work.&nbsp;<\/p>\n\n\n\n<hr class=\"wp-block-separator\"\/>\n\n\n\n<h3 class=\"wp-block-heading\" id=\"h-tier-5-large-budget-professional\"><span id=\"tier-5-large-budget-professional\">Tier 5: Large-Budget Professional<\/span><\/h3>\n\n\n\n<figure class=\"wp-block-image size-large\"><a href=\"https:\/\/www.premiumbeat.com\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2021\/03\/Movie-Set-1.jpg\" data-wpel-link=\"internal\"><img loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\" width=\"755\" height=\"424\" src=\"https:\/\/www.premiumbeat.com\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2021\/03\/Movie-Set-1.jpg\" alt=\"Movie Set\" class=\"wp-image-150871\" srcset=\"https:\/\/vip-go.premiumbeat.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2021\/03\/Movie-Set-1.jpg 755w, https:\/\/vip-go.premiumbeat.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2021\/03\/Movie-Set-1.jpg?resize=300,168 300w, https:\/\/vip-go.premiumbeat.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2021\/03\/Movie-Set-1.jpg?resize=277,156 277w, https:\/\/vip-go.premiumbeat.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2021\/03\/Movie-Set-1.jpg?resize=359,202 359w, https:\/\/vip-go.premiumbeat.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2021\/03\/Movie-Set-1.jpg?resize=543,305 543w, https:\/\/vip-go.premiumbeat.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2021\/03\/Movie-Set-1.jpg?resize=560,314 560w, https:\/\/vip-go.premiumbeat.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2021\/03\/Movie-Set-1.jpg?resize=150,84 150w\" sizes=\"auto, (max-width: 755px) 100vw, 755px\" \/><\/a><figcaption><em>In Tier 5, your crew and budget grows exponentially. Image via <a href=\"https:\/\/www.shutterstock.com\/image-photo\/blurry-image-making-movie-video-big-1059682235\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noreferrer noopener\" data-wpel-link=\"external\">gnepphoto<\/a>.<\/em><\/figcaption><\/figure>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">Breaking into the big time is everyone\u2019s dream and a level not everyone can achieve. Making the transition from Tier 4 to Tier 5 can be the largest, most difficult step to achieve. Projects in this level would include feature films, nation-wide commercials, or rock-star music videos. Money on a large-budget project doesn\u2019t really go to the toys and gear, but mostly to the people who make the magic happen. When working on a large-budget project, the cast and crew grow quite a bit bigger.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">At this level, you\u2019ll have a specialized role within a specialized department. Each department could include a department head, directing roles within the department, who manage the crew under them and even production assistants dedicated to that department. If you\u2019ve ever stayed for the credits after a movie, you\u2019ll notice just how many people it takes to create a Hollywood film\u2014literally hundreds. The art department could have a hundred or more credits alone.\u00a0<\/p>\n\n\n\n<figure class=\"wp-block-image size-large\"><a href=\"https:\/\/www.premiumbeat.com\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2021\/03\/Camera-Crew1-1.jpg\" data-wpel-link=\"internal\"><img loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\" width=\"755\" height=\"391\" src=\"https:\/\/www.premiumbeat.com\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2021\/03\/Camera-Crew1-1.jpg\" alt=\"Camera Crew\" class=\"wp-image-150872\" srcset=\"https:\/\/vip-go.premiumbeat.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2021\/03\/Camera-Crew1-1.jpg 755w, https:\/\/vip-go.premiumbeat.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2021\/03\/Camera-Crew1-1.jpg?resize=300,155 300w, https:\/\/vip-go.premiumbeat.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2021\/03\/Camera-Crew1-1.jpg?resize=277,143 277w, https:\/\/vip-go.premiumbeat.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2021\/03\/Camera-Crew1-1.jpg?resize=359,186 359w, https:\/\/vip-go.premiumbeat.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2021\/03\/Camera-Crew1-1.jpg?resize=543,281 543w, https:\/\/vip-go.premiumbeat.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2021\/03\/Camera-Crew1-1.jpg?resize=560,290 560w, https:\/\/vip-go.premiumbeat.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2021\/03\/Camera-Crew1-1.jpg?resize=150,78 150w\" sizes=\"auto, (max-width: 755px) 100vw, 755px\" \/><\/a><figcaption><em>This eight-person crew only includes the director and camera department. Image via <a href=\"https:\/\/www.shutterstock.com\/image-photo\/behind-scenes-vdo-production-video-shooting-678855433\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noreferrer noopener\" data-wpel-link=\"external\">gnepphoto<\/a>.<\/em><\/figcaption><\/figure>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">Within a large-budget production, there\u2019s, well, a lot of money behind it. The production team and financers know that quality talent and product takes a lot of dollars. If a specific piece of gear, set decoration, or costume is necessary for the film, it&#8217;ll be budgeted accordingly.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">That\u2019s not to say there isn\u2019t a budget the production is bound to, but it can be expected that a specific level of quality comes with a high price, and those behind the film understand that. At this level, you\u2019re not really figuring out how to put together a fancy one-take with a C100 and a Ronin-S. The production will have a talented and dedicated <a href=\"https:\/\/www.premiumbeat.com\/blog\/camera-movement-gimbals-vs-steadicams\/\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noreferrer noopener\" data-wpel-link=\"internal\">steadicam operator<\/a> who&#8217;s ready for the task, and a team behind him ready to make it happen.\u00a0A talented crew doesn&#8217;t come cheap! <\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">Camera-wise, you&#8217;re starting with something like a <a href=\"https:\/\/www.premiumbeat.com\/blog\/canon-c500-mark-ii-best-documentary-camera\/\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noreferrer noopener\" data-wpel-link=\"internal\">Canon C500 Mark II<\/a>, all the way up to the <a href=\"https:\/\/www.premiumbeat.com\/blog\/cameras-behind-golden-globe-winners-nominees\/\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noreferrer noopener\" data-wpel-link=\"internal\">Sony Venice<\/a> or <a href=\"https:\/\/www.premiumbeat.com\/blog\/new-arri-alexa-mini-lf\/\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noreferrer noopener\" data-wpel-link=\"internal\">ARRI ALEXA<\/a> camera line. Lenses may be along the lines of various ARRI primes or Panavision primes, expensive lenses to match the expensive cameras. Lights, rigging, and support will also match the high-dollar value of the camera setup. In a Hollywood film, you&#8217;ll see no expense spared to get the lighting perfect. In <em><a href=\"https:\/\/www.imdb.com\/title\/tt7131622\/?ref_=nv_sr_srsg_0\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noreferrer noopener\" data-wpel-link=\"external\">Once Upon a Time . . . In Hollywood<\/a><\/em>, DP <a href=\"https:\/\/www.premiumbeat.com\/blog\/robert-richardson-illuminating-cinematography\/\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noreferrer noopener\" data-wpel-link=\"internal\">Robert Richardson<\/a> used nine condors to light a stretch of highway. <\/p>\n\n\n\n<figure class=\"wp-block-image size-large\"><a href=\"https:\/\/www.premiumbeat.com\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2021\/03\/Once-Upon-a-Time-1.jpg\" data-wpel-link=\"internal\"><img loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\" width=\"755\" height=\"503\" src=\"https:\/\/www.premiumbeat.com\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2021\/03\/Once-Upon-a-Time-1.jpg\" alt=\"Once Upon a Time . . . In Hollywood Set\" class=\"wp-image-150873\" srcset=\"https:\/\/vip-go.premiumbeat.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2021\/03\/Once-Upon-a-Time-1.jpg 755w, https:\/\/vip-go.premiumbeat.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2021\/03\/Once-Upon-a-Time-1.jpg?resize=300,200 300w, https:\/\/vip-go.premiumbeat.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2021\/03\/Once-Upon-a-Time-1.jpg?resize=277,185 277w, https:\/\/vip-go.premiumbeat.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2021\/03\/Once-Upon-a-Time-1.jpg?resize=359,239 359w, https:\/\/vip-go.premiumbeat.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2021\/03\/Once-Upon-a-Time-1.jpg?resize=543,362 543w, https:\/\/vip-go.premiumbeat.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2021\/03\/Once-Upon-a-Time-1.jpg?resize=560,373 560w, https:\/\/vip-go.premiumbeat.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2021\/03\/Once-Upon-a-Time-1.jpg?resize=150,100 150w\" sizes=\"auto, (max-width: 755px) 100vw, 755px\" \/><\/a><figcaption><em>If you get to this point in your career, you&#8217;ve hit Tier 5. Image via <a href=\"https:\/\/www.sonypictures.com\/\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noreferrer noopener\" data-wpel-link=\"external\">Sony Pictures Home Entertainment<\/a>. <\/em><\/figcaption><\/figure>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">Larger projects, especially in Hollywood, require the crew to be a part of a union, and require the production to adhere to strict guidelines as to who can do what, when, and at what cost. Unions will clearly dictate the roles and duties their members can and cannot do while on set. This makes for a well-oiled machine filled with professionals doing the exact role they were hired to do. If you\u2019re on a union set, you won\u2019t be expected to do something that\u2019s not in your job description. The grip won&#8217;t be asked to adjust lights and the gaffer won&#8217;t be expected to move any set decorations.&nbsp;<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">The downside could be that you won\u2019t be able to get a feeling for other roles, therefore, making it difficult to break out of your department. By the time you\u2019ve reached Tier 5, you\u2019ve most-certainly found your niche, but wanting to try something new may be challenging.&nbsp;<\/p>\n\n\n\n<figure class=\"wp-block-image size-large\"><a href=\"https:\/\/www.premiumbeat.com\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2021\/03\/Movie-Camera-1-1.jpg\" data-wpel-link=\"internal\"><img loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\" width=\"755\" height=\"331\" src=\"https:\/\/www.premiumbeat.com\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2021\/03\/Movie-Camera-1-1.jpg\" alt=\"Movie Camera\" class=\"wp-image-150875\" srcset=\"https:\/\/vip-go.premiumbeat.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2021\/03\/Movie-Camera-1-1.jpg 755w, https:\/\/vip-go.premiumbeat.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2021\/03\/Movie-Camera-1-1.jpg?resize=300,132 300w, https:\/\/vip-go.premiumbeat.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2021\/03\/Movie-Camera-1-1.jpg?resize=277,121 277w, https:\/\/vip-go.premiumbeat.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2021\/03\/Movie-Camera-1-1.jpg?resize=359,157 359w, https:\/\/vip-go.premiumbeat.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2021\/03\/Movie-Camera-1-1.jpg?resize=543,238 543w, https:\/\/vip-go.premiumbeat.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2021\/03\/Movie-Camera-1-1.jpg?resize=560,246 560w, https:\/\/vip-go.premiumbeat.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2021\/03\/Movie-Camera-1-1.jpg?resize=150,66 150w\" sizes=\"auto, (max-width: 755px) 100vw, 755px\" \/><\/a><figcaption><em>At this level, every crew member will have a specialized role. Image via <a href=\"https:\/\/www.shutterstock.com\/image-photo\/behind-scenes-making-movie-tv-commercial-1346735993\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noreferrer noopener\" data-wpel-link=\"external\">PopTika<\/a>.<\/em><\/figcaption><\/figure>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">Lastly, breaking into Tier 5 may be difficult for a majority of film professionals based solely on location. You may be able to carve out a healthy living creating films and content in almost any city at the mid-budget level, but large-budget features are routinely only shot in a few select cities or regions. In North America, this includes Los Angeles, Atlanta, New York, Texas, and Vancouver. If you&#8217;re outside of these areas, the major projects may be too few and far between to really make a career of it.&nbsp;<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">One thing to keep in mind is that the level you&#8217;re currently operating in doesn&#8217;t necessarily dictate the quality of work that you&#8217;re able to produce. There have been a few notable cases of low or medium-budget projects making waves in the filmmaking world based on technique and content. For example, <em><a href=\"https:\/\/www.imdb.com\/title\/tt1179904\/?ref_=nv_sr_srsg_0\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noreferrer noopener\" data-wpel-link=\"external\">Paranormal Activity<\/a><\/em>&#8216;s original budget was about $15,000 (most of which went toward the camera alone). <em><a href=\"https:\/\/www.imdb.com\/title\/tt0109445\/?ref_=nv_sr_srsg_0\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noreferrer noopener\" data-wpel-link=\"external\">Clerks<\/a><\/em> cost about $27,000 and was financed mostly by <a href=\"https:\/\/www.imdb.com\/name\/nm0003620\/?ref_=tt_ov_dr\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noreferrer noopener\" data-wpel-link=\"external\">Kevin Smith<\/a> maxing out his credit cards. Money doesn&#8217;t necessarily equal quality.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">There are tons of talented filmmakers out there who&#8217;d be classified in any one of these levels. Being slotted in your current position doesn&#8217;t mean you can&#8217;t make amazing films or won&#8217;t work your way up. There are a lot of pros and cons between each level. Finding a place that you&#8217;re most comfortable in and can make credible work at\u2014that&#8217;s what&#8217;s most important.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<hr class=\"wp-block-separator\"\/>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\"><em>Cover image via&nbsp;<a href=\"https:\/\/www.shutterstock.com\/image-photo\/behind-scene-film-crew-team-filming-665563459\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noreferrer noopener\" data-wpel-link=\"external\">guruXOX<\/a>.<\/em><\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">For more filmmaking tips and advice, check out these articles:<\/p>\n\n\n\n<ul class=\"wp-block-list\"><li><a href=\"https:\/\/www.premiumbeat.com\/blog\/creative-crew-behind-kevin-james-youtube-channel\/\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noreferrer noopener\" data-wpel-link=\"internal\">Meet the Creative Crew Behind Kevin James\u2019s YouTube Channel<\/a><\/li><li><a href=\"https:\/\/www.premiumbeat.com\/blog\/getting-good-sound-every-budget\/\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noreferrer noopener\" data-wpel-link=\"internal\">Audio Tip: How to Get Good Sound on Every Budget<\/a><\/li><li><a href=\"https:\/\/www.premiumbeat.com\/blog\/working-with-director-of-photography\/\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noreferrer noopener\" data-wpel-link=\"internal\">How to Make a Director of Photography Your Best Friend<\/a><\/li><li><a href=\"https:\/\/www.premiumbeat.com\/blog\/anime-films-inspire-your-filmmaking\/\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noreferrer noopener\" data-wpel-link=\"internal\">Five Anime Films to Inspire Your Next Filmmaking Project<\/a><\/li><li><a href=\"https:\/\/www.premiumbeat.com\/blog\/shooting-video-start-to-finish\/\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noreferrer noopener\" data-wpel-link=\"internal\">Filmmaking 101: Shooting a Video from Start to Finish<\/a><\/li><\/ul>\n","protected":false},"excerpt":{"rendered":"<p>Let&#8217;s explore the multiple tiers of filmmaking, where you currently fit in, and how you can break into the next level of your craft.<\/p>\n","protected":false},"author":169,"featured_media":150879,"comment_status":"open","ping_status":"open","sticky":false,"template":"","format":"standard","meta":{"jetpack_post_was_ever_published":false,"_jetpack_newsletter_access":"","_jetpack_dont_email_post_to_subs":false,"_jetpack_newsletter_tier_id":0,"_jetpack_memberships_contains_paywalled_content":false,"_jetpack_memberships_contains_paid_content":false,"footnotes":"","jetpack_publicize_message":"","jetpack_publicize_feature_enabled":true,"jetpack_social_post_already_shared":true,"jetpack_social_options":{"image_generator_settings":{"template":"highway","default_image_id":0,"font":"","enabled":false},"version":2}},"categories":[3843,715,583],"tags":[5880,851,536,2165,543],"class_list":["post-class-post-150188","post-class-post","post-class-type-post","post-class-status-publish","post-class-format-standard","post-class-has-post-thumbnail","post-class-hentry","post-class-category-filmmaking-2","post-class-category-industry","post-class-category-video-production-2","post-class-tag-basics-of-film-production","post-class-tag-film-production","post-class-tag-filmmaking","post-class-tag-production","post-class-tag-production-industry"],"acf":[],"yoast_head":"<!-- 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