Frequently Asked Questions
One of the most asked questions here at AMPIA – and it’s a pretty broad question to say the least! We often encourage those just starting out, or with virtually no knowledge of the industry to start their ‘detective work’! It never hurts to inquire into the programs at some of our Post Secondary Institutions. Red Deer College, NAIT, SAIT, Grant MacEwan, Mount Royal College – all offer programs relating to Television, Digital Media, Graphic design, Theatre & Film. When you are trying to decide on which aspect of the industry appeals to you, asking questions regarding exactly what these programs offer, often helps in learning just how varied your options are. If not interested in further studies, our main advice is to check out our resources page, and asking questions of those already in the business. As an AMPIA member, you can gather information about what’s happening in the province, and utilize our Industry events to start networking. Volunteering on film projects will also give you the opportunity to meet people and gain valuable experience.
There are many ways to begin this process. One option is to line up a meeting with a producer. If you write a letter to producers to introduce yourself and your project, it’s not a guarantee that they will look at your work, but most will be supportive and at the very least try to give some feedback and advice on what your next step should be.
The criteria to qualify as a producer member in the AMPIA bylaws states: “Must have completed a moving image screen-based production on a commercial basis which has been disseminated via a commercial outlet or portal (which can include public or private broadcast, distribution, internet or direct to consumer undertakings).”
Simply put – if you or your company has produced something that a third party has paid for – ie: you have sold it as a product, and in some way shape or form, it has been broadcast, then you qualify as a producer.