5 Things I Wish I Knew When I Started in Film

Selena
BySelena

Selena is a Los Angeles based cinematographer and camera operator with credits including Hulu, Disney, ABC, and more. She uses her on set expertise to break down filmmaking concepts for aspiring filmmakers and film enthusiasts alike.

Practical lessons from my first professional film sets—attitude, punctuality, networking, longevity, and learning on the job.

Published: August 17, 2025
Last Updated: August 17, 2025

2 Minute Read

Selena with multiple blackmagic cameras in New York City, on her first travel shoot
Selena juggles 2 Blackmagic cameras on her first travel job in New York City.

5 Things I Wish I Knew When I Started in Film

“I thought I knew what I was doing. I’d been on student films, had some technical skills… but the real world of film work? Totally different game.” When I stepped onto my first professional set, I quickly realized there’s so much about filmmaking no one teaches you in school — lessons you only learn from being in the trenches.

After years of freelancing on both indie projects and big-budget sets, here are the five things I wish someone had told me from the start.

1. You’re Not Just Hired for Your Skill Set — You’re Hired for Your Attitude

Being socially aware, helpful, and genuinely enjoyable to work with are the invisible qualities that get you rehired again and again.

Mentor tip: “Anyone can do what we do. Not everyone can do it while being a good hang.”

Filmmaking is hard work with long hours. People want crew members who get the job done and keep the mood positive. Don’t cause drama. Don’t complain endlessly. Be competent, be cool, and you’ll get called back.

Breakfast on set, featuring Orange Juice, Banana, Scrambled Eggs, Ham, breakfast sausage, and breakfast pastries.

2. Being Early Isn’t Optional — It’s Essential

I came from a hybrid world of film and theatre, so punctuality was drilled into me early: “Early is on time, and on time is late.”

Now, in the professional world, you shouldn’t start working before your call time (no unloading trucks before you’re on the clock), but you should be ready to work at call time. Not parking. Not grabbing breakfast. Standing by and good to go. Reliability builds trust — and trust gets you rehired.

3. Your Network Will Take You Further Than Your Resume

People always ask me: “How do you get work?” My answer? I check my phone.

Once you’ve proven yourself, your next job will likely come from a friend, past colleague, or a referral. Resumes have their place, but in this industry, relationships matter more.

Red flag: if a producer asks for an extensive resume before hiring, they might be inexperienced or disconnected from how the industry actually works. Your reputation and network are your strongest assets.

4. It’s a Marathon, Not a Sprint — Take Care of Yourself

When you’re new, it’s tempting to say yes to every job. But burnout is real.

  • Stretch daily. Ten minutes in the morning and night will keep your body moving after long days on your feet.
  • Go easy on crafty. Fresh fruit over donuts. Your future self will thank you.
  • Schedule breaks. Leave yourself downtime between big jobs to rest and handle your personal life.

The people who last aren’t always the most talented — they’re the ones who understand balance and can keep going without running themselves into the ground.

Selena On set with slate in hand for her first feature film, Magpie Funeral

5. No One Expects You to Know Everything — But You Should Be Eager to Learn

There’s no shame in not knowing something — but there’s a big difference between curiosity and carelessness.

Timing matters. If the crew is rushing to make a shot before losing daylight, that’s not the time for a technical deep dive. Watch, take mental notes, and follow up when things calm down.

Be observant. Anticipate needs. Learn from others — both by asking and by watching. On the other hand, if not asking the question just elongates the time it takes for you to complete a task because you’re trying to figure out what they’ve asked for, clarify in the moment and save yourself the headache and time.

Final Thoughts

The film industry can be exhilarating, exhausting, and unpredictable — often all at once. If you’re just starting out, I hope these lessons help you navigate your first sets with more confidence (and fewer mistakes).

What about you? If you’ve worked on set, what’s something you wish you knew on your first day? Drop a comment or send me a message — I’d love to hear your stories.

Next week, I’ll be sharing what a camera prep day actually looks like and why it’s one of the most underrated parts of the job.