The issue

Our small video production company, Curious One Productions, faced a challenge: the number of people interested in participating in our film production exercises had grown beyond our capacity, and we wanted to continue expanding our talent pool.

The situation

Curious One Productions was a small video production company in the Portland metro area. Some projects required a larger crew than we had available, and finding reliable help was a challenge. We had several of our part-time crew eager to practice and learn new skills, so I coordinated small productions to provide an opportunity for them to gain experience in a zero-stress environment. As word spread about these opportunities, the number of people interested in participating grew quickly, exceeding our capacity to host. Recognizing this as a need in our community, my partner and I hatched the idea of creating a group focused specifically on developing film production skills and networking.

The story

As we brainstormed the concept for our group, numerous questions arose regarding its structure, purpose, and membership. I developed an outline that focused on three core principles:

#1 – No egos: All participants would be treated equally and given the same opportunity to learn and practice, regardless of experience or expertise.

#2 – Open membership: Anyone interested in the film industry could join, from producers, directors, and actors, to hairdressers, makeup artists, and film students.

#3 – Networking and experience: The group would facilitate organic networking through collaboration on projects, allowing members to meet and work with others in the production environment.

We named our initiative the “Film & Media Makers Development Guild” and partnered with a local community media organization to host our meetings. Our first gathering attracted 12-15 participants from various industry roles. We agreed that writers would present short scripts at the next meeting, and the group would decide which one to produce collectively.

As word spread, our second meeting saw twice the attendance. We chose a script to produce but realized there were too many volunteers for the available roles & crew positions. The group decided to form two teams to produce the same script, offering a unique opportunity to compare the final results. The screening of both projects was packed – with standing room only, and it became evident that we had created an incredible platform for creators.

The result

The Film & Media Makers Development Guild has experienced tremendous growth, with membership exceeding 500 members. This remarkable expansion is a testament to the group’s ability to provide a safe and supportive space for members to learn, grow, and create together. The Guild’s unique approach to “Applied Networking” through hands-on group activities and productions sets it apart from other industry organizations in the area, fostering an inclusive and collaborative environment.

The success of the group has not only led to numerous collaborative projects but has also opened doors for its members, many of whom have gone on to secure paid positions within the industry. Moreover, the projects undertaken by the group have garnered recognition, with one particular short film receiving national and international awards in its genre.

As the Guild continues to evolve, it is developing into a more structured organization, with plans to seek non-profit status in the future. This will further enhance its ability to support members and contribute to the growth of the local film industry. I continue to serve the organization as “Director Emeritus,” providing guidance and sharing my experience with the group.

In summary, the Film & Media Makers Development Guild’s success has had a far-reaching impact on its members, the local community, and the wider film industry, demonstrating the power of collaboration, inclusivity, and dedication to nurturing talent.

Reasons for success

The Film & Media Makers Development Guild’s success can be attributed to several key factors:

Inclusive environment: By excluding ego and promoting equal opportunities, the group fosters a welcoming and supportive atmosphere that encourages learning and collaboration.

Applied Networking: The group’s unique approach to networking through hands-on group activities and productions sets it apart from other industry organizations in the area.

Open membership: Welcoming people from various backgrounds and levels of experience, including students, professionals, and union members, has enriched the group’s collective knowledge and skillset.

Altruistic nature: The group’s focus on helping its members and the broader community has attracted support from local organizations and stakeholders.

Perseverance and creativity: The enthusiasm, creativity, and determination of the group’s members have played a significant role in its growth and success.