If I Had To Start My Film Career Over At 0, This Is Exactly What I Would Do

0 films released
0 TV shows sold
0 paid clients
0 social media followers

This is where I started my career.
The difference between then and now?

I executed my ideas.

In my experience, the most important part of building a career path in the film & TV industry is execution and consistency.

I’m going to share with you my 2 year game plan to create the foundation for becoming a working film director, executive producer, and unscripted TV show creator for global brands, A-list companies, and major studios & streaming platforms.

My 2 Year Game Plan in 7 Steps

Step 1: Define your *profitable* niche

Passion can be a good starting point when choosing where to invest your time, effort, and work. 

But some passions aren't profitable.

I've been creating work in the women's sports space for 8+ years, and only in the last few years has women's sports media, viewership, and popularity skyrocketed to new heights. 

If your niche is in alignment with the overall industry, your chances of being hired and paid increase.

Want to uncover your profitable niche? Check out my 6-Part Framework here:

My 6-Part Framework for Uncovering Your Profitable Niche

Step 2: Write your brand story

Your brand story can include:

• Your mission
• Your values
• Your voice
• Your tone

Your brand story is more than a description of what you do.

It is the backbone of your creative approach and vision on every project you're a part of.

Your story should delve into what you care about, highlighting your inspirations, challenges, and unique perspectives that drive your creativity.

Why does telling stories within your niche matter to you, to other people, and within broader context of the world?

Step 3: Create your visual identity

Your visual identity can include:

• Color palette
• Typography
• Logo
• Overall vibe & personality

A consistent visual identity can help you establish your unique style and differentiate your work from others.

You can find real-life examples of my brand story & visual identity on my websites and in my work: 

monicamedellin.com

learn.monicamedellin.com

I received the following testimonial from my executive-level client at Nike, which is 100% aligned with my brand story and visual identity:

"Having worked together on a film, the dedication, consistency, and adherence to the vision that Monica has as part of her brand is unquestionable to me. It shows in the great work we delivered and in how I mention her when others ask me what it was like to partner on projects together."

– Tyler Hall, Global Digital Creative Operations

Step 4: Gain field experience (paid or unpaid)

I took 3 unpaid internships before I landed my first paid production gig at the Los Angeles Times.

I started as a production assistant and worked my way up the ladder.

I would assist producers and directors on set. Everything from grabbing coffee to moving camera gear.

I used my vacation days to work on other sets as a production assistant and BTS videographer. 

Even with a 9-5 full-time job and freelancing, I would work nights and weekends to film and edit my passion projects.

Gaining real-world experience wherever you can is the most valuable thing to do in the beginning of your career.

It will open doors and opportunities for you that could change the trajectory of your career. 

Step 5: Build your portfolio

Create a professional website and share your work.

You can find affordable plans on Squarespace or Wix. 

Examples of what to include on your website:

• Your work, films, and projects
• Brands & companies you've worked with
• Your bio & brand story
• Professional headshot & photos on set
• A clean look and visual identity

Your website serves as a personalized version of your resume.

Step 6: Promote yourself and your work on social media

Nobody knows you exist. So now what? 

If you aren't going to promote yourself and your work, who will?

I recommend using LinkedIn to start.

I broke 5,000 followers after posting weekly in just a few months.

I organically grew my newsletter to 626 subscribers. No ads or money behind it.

You probably wouldn't know I existed if I never posted.

I've been working closely with one of my mentees, and in just a few months she has grown to over 2,000 followers and even received a "Top Video Production Voice" badge. 

Step 7: Invest in education & mentorship

Investing in education helps you gain the knowledge and expertise required to reach your goals.

Researching courses, videos, and resources can help you refine your craft.

This was the big inspiration behind creating my Filmmaker Accelerator Program.

Stay tuned for more of my go-to resources and courses coming soon!

Summary

The good news? You can get started now. Here is my 2 year game plan in 7 simple steps:

1. Define your niche

2. Write brand story

3. Create visual identity

4. Field experience

5. Build your portfolio & work

6. Organically promote

7. Invest in yourself