Hey fam — in this video I’m breaking down how to find paid work as a filmmaker and attract big brands even when your following isn’t “huge.” This is the single most asked question I get, and everything I’m sharing comes from my real path: three years freelancing, then running my film production company for the last two years, and working on significant productions with brands like DJI and Corona. The big shift is understanding that pitching isn’t the first step — research is. Before you reach out, you need to know what decision makers are actually looking for. I use LinkedIn to find marketing reps, follow what they engage with, and then tailor my portfolio so it resonates with them. Brands hire you for two things: reliability and reputation. That’s why I tell you to leverage your connections (even assisting on someone else’s set counts), name the collaborators who add credibility, and build trust fast. I also share why meeting creatives in person (conferences, workshops, meetups) was a game-changer for me. And if you’re in a slow season, don’t waste it. Create spec work or passion projects—but be strategic. Instead of random videos, make two portfolio pieces designed to speak directly to the brands you want, then consistently showcase that work online. Do the work first, build the reputation second.