Is a Career in Film & Television Right For You?

Special effects are one of the most exciting areas in film and television, but is it right for you? We discuss the pros and cons of working in this competitive industry.

The University of Bolton’s BDes Hons Special Effects for Film and Television degree is suitable for anyone who studied art at A-Level and wants to turn their creative skills into a career on set.

This is a discipline that allows you to bring imagination to life through skills such as modelmaking, prosthetic makeup, 2D and 3D computer modelling, and prototyping. But not all creatives are cut out for careers in film and TV.

Knowing how to get into the film industry is key, as it’s highly competitive. Here’s a look at what you can expect if you’re setting your sights on the entertainment sector.

Hard work (and willingness to learn)

You could be an amazing artist, but creativity alone won’t get you far when pursuing careers in film and TV. This is because it’s vital to be able to work to a brief. You’ll be designing something that aligns with the writers’, directors’ and producers’ different visions. So you’ll need to work hard at getting things right.

Your willingness to learn is important too, as hands-on experience is going to set you apart. Invest time in building your portfolio, and be prepared to start from the bottom.