Ever wonder how other film students are landing remote gigs while balancing a busy study schedule? The good news is that the world of filmmaking is more flexible than ever—especially for those looking for remote filmmaking jobs or internships. Whether you’re studying in Lisbon with the DocNomads Erasmus Master’s Program or just passionate about documentary production, there are real ways to jumpstart your career from anywhere.
Why Remote Filmmaking Jobs Are on the Rise
The film industry used to be all about being on set. Now? A lot of post-production, editing, research, and even pre-production can happen from your laptop. This shift has opened up more opportunities for students who want hands-on experience but need flexibility—like those in the DocNomads program.
Remote filmmaking jobs aren’t just about convenience. They’re a chance to work with international teams, learn from professionals across the globe, and build a portfolio that stands out. Plus, with platforms like ProductionHUB and Mandy, finding these opportunities has never been easier.
Where to Find Remote Filmmaking Jobs and Internships
Finding the right fit can take some digging. Here’s a quick list of trusted sites and resources that regularly feature remote or European-based opportunities in filmmaking, video editing, and media production:
- ProductionHUB – Search for remote and location-based media jobs globally.
- Mandy – A go-to job site for film and TV roles with a dedicated section for internships.
- Indeed – Use keywords like “remote video editor” or “remote film internship”.
- Euraxess – Especially good for Erasmus+ students seeking opportunities in Europe.
- No Film School – Community-driven site with freelance and remote gigs.
- LinkedIn Jobs – Filter for “remote” and “internship” in the video/media category.
You can also check out official university career portals—some Erasmus partner universities share exclusive listings for students.
Tips to Stand Out When Applying
Competition can be tough, especially for remote filmmaking jobs. Here’s what helps:
- Showcase your work: A personal website or a Vimeo/YouTube channel with your best projects makes a huge difference.
- Tailor your applications: Mention your specific skills—like documentary direction or cinematography—and how they can help the team.
- Highlight collaboration: Remote work requires good communication. Briefly mention any international or group projects you’ve done.
- Get recommendations: Professors or past collaborators can vouch for your reliability and skillset.
- Stay active on professional platforms: Keep your LinkedIn profile updated; recruiters often search there first.
A friend once told me about their first remote internship—they landed the gig by sending a short video introduction instead of the usual cover letter. The director loved the creative approach and it kicked off a great mentorship! Sometimes a little creativity goes a long way in this industry.
Other Ways to Grow Your Filmmaking Career Remotely
If you’re still waiting for that perfect student job or internship offer, don’t stop building your skills. Here are some ideas:
- Volunteer for documentary organizations or online film festivals.
- Join online communities like No Film School to network and collaborate on indie projects.
- Take free courses or workshops—platforms like FutureLearn offer courses in digital storytelling and editing.
- Create your own mini-documentary or video series about a topic you care about—this is the best way to learn by doing.
One DocNomads student shared how they started a collaborative documentary project during lockdown. Each team member filmed their story from their home country, then edited everything remotely using shared drives. The final piece won a student award and helped everyone land new opportunities.
Final Thoughts: Take the First Step
Breaking into remote filmmaking jobs or internships might feel overwhelming, but there are more options than ever—especially for motivated students in programs like DocNomads. Don’t underestimate the value of networking (even online), keeping your portfolio fresh, and applying widely.
What’s the most surprising thing you’ve learned as a student filmmaker? Or do you have a resource that’s helped you land your first gig? Share your experience below!
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