Employees in the film, video, and television industry produce media for many different purposes. Films (and the rest) can be for entertainment, instruction, or information. In the US, the industry is centered in Hollywood, Los Angeles and New York, but the rapid evolution of new technology is making it easier to be an independent filmmaker.

It takes many years, lots of money, ambition, luck, and talent to become a famous producer, director, or actor. Luckily, there are a huge number of jobs for employees below this radar. A student’s specialty in film school, on-the-job training, and further education opportunities will largely shape his or her career.

In 2002, there were about 360,000 jobs in the motion picture and video industries. Most employees work for the seven major studios in the US, although studios also contract out employees. Some workers are self-employed. Working conditions vary; shooting on location can be uncomfortable, dangerous, and very demanding. Shooting in a TV studio under planned conditions is usually pleasant. Editors, writers, and technicians usually work in offices. The stage and sound crews follow the film wherever it’s being shot, and have arguably the most physically strenuous and dangerous jobs.

The industry can be broken down into preproduction, production, and postproduction phases. For more information on these disciplines, see the specialties page.

Earnings vary by type of work, experience, the economy, and many other factors. In 2002, the average weekly salaries of film and video industry workers were $653 (higher than average). Most workers are in unions, such as the Screen Actors Guild.

Some average hourly earnings figures, by specialty, in 2002:

• Managers: $44.64
• Camera operators: $22.38
• Sales reps: $20.12
• Editors: $19.92
• A/V equipment techs: $16.03