Generated by All in One SEO v4.9.5.1, this is an llms.txt file, used by LLMs to index the site.

# Magic Hour Blog

Surviving and succeeding in the film industry!

## Sitemaps

- [XML Sitemap](https://magichourblog.com/sitemap.xml): Contains all public & indexable URLs for this website.

## Posts

- [5 Top Passive Income Streams for Freelancers in 2026](https://magichourblog.com/passive-income-streams-freelancers/) - If you’ve been struggling with the uncertainty in our industry in the last couple of years, you’re not alone. Between strikes, mergers, and runaway production, it seems more difficult than ever to generate a predictable income. Even many well-established freelancers aren’t making the same income they once did. Too many things are simply out of
- [21 Best Jobs for Aspiring Actors That Have Flexibility](https://magichourblog.com/21-best-jobs-for-aspiring-actors/) - The best jobs for aspiring actors, full time or part time, have flexible work hours so you can pursue your acting career. Since we've now experienced the months-long lack of work from the WGA and SAG-AFTRA strikes, it's a reminder that having a reliable revenue stream is more important than ever. With another source of
- [Product Review: Orthofeet Shoes](https://magichourblog.com/product-review-orthofeet-shoes/) - Could Orthofeet finally be the answer to finding a pain-free pair of shoes to wear on set? Orthofeet shoes aren’t just your average comfortable shoes. We’re always searching for the ideal flat shoes to wear on set for the long days we spend on our feet in the film industry. Shoes that feel great at
- [17 Best Books for Freelancers in the Film Industry (2024)](https://magichourblog.com/17-best-books-for-freelancers-in-the-film-industry-2024/) - No matter what type of freelancer you are, we creative freelancers can always use some guidance and inspiration in the freelancing life. After a difficult few years of the COVID pandemic followed by two simultaneous union strikes in the industry, you may not feel like a very successful freelancer in your freelancing career right now. I
- [10 Huge Common Workplace Challenges on Set - And How to Overcome Them](https://magichourblog.com/common-workplace-challenges-on-set/) - Introduction We experience some common workplace challenges again and again when working on set. Some of the most common problems can present the biggest challenges for us to deal with. Since we spend so much time in our work environment, we need to find the best way to cope with workplace issues, or we’ll have
- [10 Easy Ways to Reduce Paper Usage in the Workplace in 2023](https://magichourblog.com/reduce-paper-usage-in-workplace/) - Introduction The film industry has a long history of wasteful practices and paper waste in the workplace is one of them. However, reducing paper usage in the workplace has now become a priority. Awareness about workplace paper printing waste has finally started to change things, and there’s a widespread consensus that paper use on and
- [75 Best Inspiring Quotes on Communication in the Workplace](https://magichourblog.com/quotes-communication-in-workplace/) - Introduction Good communication is crucial when working on set, and quotes on communication in the workplace can inspire us to communicate better. Communication skills are essential skills that team members need, and poor communication can cause a lot of problems and pose a threat to workplace safety on set. Some of my worst days working
- [5 Important Truths About Non-Union and Union Work in the Film Industry](https://magichourblog.com/non-union-and-union-film-industry/) - Is it non-union or union? You hear that question asked a lot in our industry. The film industry consists of the two overlapping areas of non-union and union work. Anyone starting out in the industry should have some idea of what to expect working in each area. Now we're seeing two unions, the WGA and
- [10 Useful Emergency Financial Assistance Resources for Film Workers](https://magichourblog.com/financial-assistance-for-film-workers/) - Things have been getting more and more difficult for film workers, with two strikes now dragging on for months with no end in sight. The writers’ strike, and now the actors going on strike, is taking its financial toll on many of us film industry workers, including those who aren’t on strike. Many film workers Things have been getting more and more difficult for film workers, with two strikes now dragging on for months with no end in sight. The writers’ strike, and now the actors going on strike, is taking its financial toll on many of us film industry workers, including those who aren’t on strike. Many film workers
- [Can You Still Be Successful With Film Industry Jobs?](https://magichourblog.com/can-you-still-be-successful-with-film-industry-jobs/) - It’s been a devastating year for those of us who rely on film industry jobs for our livelihood. The impact of two simultaneous union strikes and walking picket lines in the scorching heat of summer was brutal, especially since many actors, writers, and industry crew members were just starting to get back on their feet
- [20 Professional Best Filmmaking Magazines for Aspiring Filmmakers](https://magichourblog.com/20-best-filmmaking-magazines/) - Introduction The best filmmaking magazines can help experienced and aspiring filmmakers learn more about their craft and other successful filmmakers. The best film magazines and filmmaking blogs can also provide insight into how the business of producing, shooting, and distributing films works and insightful film reviews on the latest releases. There’s no one best filmmaking
- [8 Summer Heat Safety Tips for Working on Set](https://magichourblog.com/heat-safety-tips-working-on-set/) - Those of us working outdoors on set neglect heat safety at our peril. We often find ourselves working outside on some of the hottest days of the year. We need to be fully prepared to protect ourselves from the worst effects of heat exposure. This includes acclimatization, slowly adapting ourselves physically to the changes from
- [The Top 20 Best Books for Creatives in the Film Industry](https://magichourblog.com/best-books-for-creatives-in-film/) - Introduction This post contains the best books for film industry creatives. I put together this list of the best books for creatives in our industry because sometimes our creative work could use a boost. It can be challenging to build a daily creative habit that inspires us to think in new ways. The creative process
- [10 Powerful Stress Relaxation Techniques for the Workplace on Set](https://magichourblog.com/relaxation-techniques-workplace/) - Introduction In our demanding industry, stress levels can be exceedingly high, so having stress relaxation techniques we can use in the workplace can be beneficial. Relaxation stress management techniques involve focusing your attention on something calming and increasing awareness of how your physical body feels. Practicing mindfulness and living in the present moment also helps
- [5 Big Ways Technology Has Changed the Workplace on Set (2023)](https://magichourblog.com/ways-technology-changed-workplace/) - Introduction Recent developments have made the modern workplace on set today vastly different than it used to be. Technological advances have changed production processes in unexpected ways, especially since the COVID-19 pandemic. I’ve written previously about how daily tasks have evolved in recent years due to the use of technology in all areas of the
- [20 Useful Artistic Goals Examples for Creatives for 2023](https://magichourblog.com/artistic-goals-examples-creatives/) - Introduction Now that we’re at the end of 2022, we creatives need to set our artistic goals for the new year. This list of artistic goals examples can help you set your own specific goals based on your biggest challenges and personal career goals. It’s especially important for anyone who strives to be a successful
- [6 Sure Fire Signs of a Toxic Workplace on Set](https://magichourblog.com/signs-of-toxic-workplace-on-set/) - It’s not much fun to work in a toxic workplace, and unfortunately, the film industry has its share of them. But just because you don’t particularly like the show you’re working on doesn’t mean your workplace is toxic. Every show has a few annoying things that we’d like to change. However, if there are numerous
- [Workplace Drama: 7 Helpful Tips on How to Deal With Dramatic People on Set](https://magichourblog.com/how-to-deal-with-dramatic-people/) - Introduction Every workplace has its share of drama, and it’s up to us to find the best way to deal with dramatic people. Those of us who work on set usually spend more time with our co-workers than our family members. Finding a positive way to deal with dramatic behavior can help us do our
- [5 Big Things to Know About Different Types of Acting Classes](https://magichourblog.com/different-types-of-acting-classes/) - Introduction If you dream of becoming a professional actor and pursuing an acting career, you should be familiar with some of the different types of acting classes. There’s a wide range of acting classes available for every skill level, from beginner to advanced actor. There isn’t one best way to become a working actor, but
- [20 Big Freelance Pros and Cons for Film Freelancers (2022)](https://magichourblog.com/20-freelance-pros-and-cons-2022/) - Introduction If you’re a freelancer, you’re probably aware that there are freelance pros and cons that you need to navigate to have a successful career. Freelancing in the film industry can be both rewarding and challenging, as the highs are really high but the lows can be really low. I’ve spent my entire work life
- [4 Important Things to Know About Personality Types in the Workplace on Set](https://magichourblog.com/personality-types-in-the-workplace/) - Introduction The ability to deal with the different personality types in the workplace you’ll encounter on set is essential to your career success. The film industry has more than its share of unique personalities and by understanding the different work personality types of your fellow crew members, you’ll be better able to communicate with them
- [A Useful Insider's Guide to Film Production Hierarchy on Set](https://magichourblog.com/film-production-hierarchy-on-set/) - Film production hierarchy on set is often more complex than it appears at first glance. It can be confusing for new people starting their careers to understand, especially since there’s sometimes a film crew hierarchy behind the main hierarchy on a film set. In order to understand the hierarchy in film production, it helps to
- [How to Get Your First Good Job in Film Production](https://magichourblog.com/first-good-job-in-film-production/) - It’s not always easy getting your first job in the film industry and getting your first good job in film production can be a challenge. It’s doable though, as anyone who works in the industry will tell you. We all had to get our first jobs or our first good jobs before we could start
- [How to Become a Successful Film Producer in Today's Industry](https://magichourblog.com/how-to-become-a-film-producer/) - A film producer oversees all aspects of film production on a motion picture, TV show, commercial, or other media production. Film producers work in every area of the entertainment industry. While some producers work on high-profile feature films, many more work on projects ranging from short films and independent films to producing and directing their
- [5 Useful Personality Traits for Big Success in the Film Industry](https://magichourblog.com/personality-traits-for-success/) - Personality traits have been found to strongly influence the types of jobs in which we’ll thrive, versus the types of jobs for which we’re ill-suited. You've probably come across people who don't seem well-suited for or content with the jobs they have. It may be that their personality traits are a mismatch for their jobs
- [My Top 6 Perks of Being a DGA Member](https://magichourblog.com/top-perks-of-being-a-dga-member/) - As a long-time DGA member, I’d like to share some of what I think are the top perks of being a member of this leading film industry union. I’ve seen the guild grow and evolve over the years and watched it become more diverse and inclusive. I’ve also seen the expansion of continuing education programs
- [7 Ways Joining a Union Can Help Your Film Industry Career](https://magichourblog.com/joining-a-union-help-film-career/) - Can joining a union help your career prospects in the film industry? It depends on where you are and what you’re doing. However, being a member of a union can be highly helpful to your career in the right circumstances. You’ll often hear the terms ‘union’ and ‘guild’ used interchangeably in our industry. That’s because
- [5 Signs It's Time For You to Join a Film Union](https://magichourblog.com/signs-time-to-join-a-film-union/) - It can be confusing figuring out if and when you should join a film union. As our careers progress, we’re not in the same situation as when we started. At some point we often feel ready to take a step up from the non-union, often low-paying jobs we took at the beginning of our careers.
- [10 Popular Myths About Joining a Film Industry Union](https://magichourblog.com/myths-joining-film-industry-union/) - There are some common misconceptions about how joining a film industry union will affect your career, and I had some of these misconceptions before joining a union myself. Union membership does have its advantages, and I’m glad to have spent most of my career as a union member. But that doesn’t mean all union jobs
- [6 Things to Do Once You Join a Film Industry Union](https://magichourblog.com/you-join-a-film-industry-union/) - You’ve finally become a member of a film industry union. Congratulations. Now what? Union jobs probably won’t be coming your way as much as you'd like in the beginning. Since you’ve just made a significant financial investment in your union membership, it’s best you make it pay off as soon as possible. I’ve written before
- [Working on Set: Helpful Info on Joining Six IATSE Locals](https://magichourblog.com/info-on-joining-six-iatse-locals/) - Once you’ve worked on set for a while, you may be ready to join a film industry union. As I’ve written before, if you anticipate working in a heavily unionized market such as Los Angeles, you’ll eventually need to join an industry union. Even in right-to-work states, if the production company is a signatory to
- [9 Valuable Set Etiquette Tips for Background Actors to Make You Look Professional](https://magichourblog.com/set-etiquette-background-actors/) - Background actors, this post is for you. I’ve worked with hundreds, maybe thousands, of you during the decades I’ve worked in the film industry. Some of you were outstanding professionals I’d be happy to work with on any show. Some of you were not. Some of you were working on your first job and had
- [5 Important Things to Know About Freelancing Jobs in the Film Industry](https://magichourblog.com/freelancing-jobs-in-film-industry/) - Freelancing jobs in the film industry, which involve working on numerous productions with multiple employers, aren’t your average jobs. Employers, employment status, and working conditions can vary widely. Jobs can be union or non-union, and production companies can be signatories or not to union contracts. Your employer of record is usually the payroll company, not
- [10 Essential Questions to Ask Before You Agree to Work on a Low-Budget Movie](https://magichourblog.com/questions-to-ask-low-budget-movie/) - Working on a low-budget movie can be a helpful step in building your film industry career or a waste of time that does nothing for your career or your sanity. It all depends on the project and who’s running the show. Anyone who’s worked on low-budget or ultra-low-budget projects knows they can be brutal, so
- [6 Powerful Signs It May Be Time to Leave Your Job](https://magichourblog.com/signs-it-time-to-leave-your-job/) - As film freelancers, we can never get too comfortable where we are, and sometimes the best decision is to leave your job and move on. If we want to succeed, we need goals and a long-term plan, and our current job may no longer fit that plan. At a seminar early in my career, I
- [5 Important Reasons to Know Your Film Production Company Employer](https://magichourblog.com/film-production-company-employer/) - If you’ve worked in the film industry for any amount of time, you know that all film production company employers are not the same. Some are terrific to work for, and some are not. As professionals, it’s up to us freelancers to ask questions and do research. Many years ago when I was a figure
- [10 Best Things to Do to Get Work as a Freelancer](https://magichourblog.com/best-tips-to-work-as-a-freelancer/) - If you want to get work as a freelancer in the film industry, you can’t wait for the jobs to come to you. We all need to be proactive about putting ourselves out there to get the jobs we want. It’s not always fun or easy, but it’s crucial if we want to work consistently
- [7 Easy Tips to Be Mentally Healthy in Our Stressful Industry](https://magichourblog.com/tips-to-be-mentally-healthy/) - May is Mental Health Awareness Month, and many of us who work in our stressful industry could use some tips for being mentally healthy in these challenging times. Our mental health is crucial to our overall well-being, and it’s something that often doesn’t receive the attention it deserves, especially in our fast-paced business. The stress
- [8 Favorite Essential Set Must-Haves to Take to Work](https://magichourblog.com/essential-set-must-haves-to-work/) - In our industry, we must go to work prepared. We all have our favorite must-haves to bring to set, but there are some items we all need, regardless of department. (Note: This post contains Amazon and other affiliate links, which means I make a small commission on any items you purchase through the links here,
- [10 Irritating Things You Should Never Say on Set](https://magichourblog.com/things-you-should-never-say-on-set/) - If you work regularly in the industry, you probably spend more time on set than you do with your family members. With the long hours we work, things can get stressful, and we may say things that we should never say at work. I’ve heard my share of irritating things on set and may have
- [6 Top Traits for a Successful Career in the Industry](https://magichourblog.com/successful-career-in-the-industry/) - Many traits make for a successful career in the film industry, and our skill at our jobs is just one of them. (This post may contain affiliate links, which means at no cost to you, I make a small commission if you buy something through a link here. That helps cover the expenses of running
- [4 Best Ways to Deal with the Lows of Freelance Film Production](https://magichourblog.com/lows-of-freelance-film-production/) - Freelance film production can be rewarding, but it also has its share of lows, and those lows can be difficult to take if we’re not prepared. Freelancing offers a lot of freedom, but it can sometimes be a bumpy ride. (This post may contain affiliate links, which means, at no cost to you, I make
- [5 Easy Ways to Improve Communication Skills as a Freelancer](https://magichourblog.com/improve-communication-skills/) - As freelancers, there’s never a wrong time to improve our communication skills. We work as part of a team on set, and a crucial part of successful teamwork is effective communication. (This post may contain affiliate links. If you purchase anything through the links, I make a small amount of money that helps cover the
- [6 Inefficient Film Industry Practices That Need to Change](https://magichourblog.com/industry-practices-need-to-change/) - The film industry has always seemed to be a fly by the seat of your pants industry by the nature of the things we create. But it’s also adopted some practices that are outdated, unsafe, and ridiculous. I thought some of these practices would evolve, as the industry has changed dramatically over the past few
- [7 Helpful Business Spring Cleaning Tips for Film Freelancers](https://magichourblog.com/business-spring-cleaning-tips/) - Spring cleaning tips aren't just for our homes. Our business practices can also use a spring cleanup. As freelancers, our careers are our businesses, and spring is as good a time as any to review what we’re doing to keep those businesses moving forward. Here are seven things worth reviewing on your business spring cleaning
- [10 Annoying Things on My Set Pet Peeves List](https://magichourblog.com/set-pet-peeves-list/) - A large group of people working together as closely as we do in our industry is bound to generate a few pet peeves. Tack on a few decades of working in the industry, and you have the pet peeves list found here. I don’t mean to sound ungrateful for all the work and friendships I’ve
- [5 Easy Things We Can Do to Support Safe Sets](https://magichourblog.com/easy-things-to-support-safe-sets/) - Recent lawsuits resulting from the tragic shooting accident on the set of the film Rust are a reminder that we all need to do whatever we can to support safe sets. It’s not in our best interest to look the other way when we see unsafe conditions on set. Anyone who’s worked in the industry
- [5 Stupid Mistakes I Made Doing Freelance Work (And 5 Things I Nailed)](https://magichourblog.com/stupid-mistakes-freelance-work/) - Most of us cringe thinking about some of the stupid mistakes we’ve made with our freelance work over the years, but it’s all part of the learning process. I dislike examining, let alone sharing, the mistakes I’ve made, but in the interest of others learning from my mistakes, here it goes. Here are five stupid
- [5 Reasons You Don't Need Film School for a Successful Industry Career](https://magichourblog.com/dont-need-film-school-success-career/) - In my many years of working in the film industry, I’ve encountered people who went to film school and people who didn’t. Many young people with ambitions to work in the industry wonder if they need to go to film school to succeed. I have some thoughts on that matter. My husband went to a
- [Product Review: MasterClass](https://magichourblog.com/product-review-masterclass/) - You’ve probably seen TV commercials or ads on social media for MasterClass and wondered whether those classes were worthwhile. I did, so I decided to watch some of the class trailers. Those are the short promos of the instructors speaking about what their class will cover. MasterClass is subscription-based, and for $180 plus tax, you
- [5 Reasons Freelancers Need to Get Out of Our Comfort Zone](https://magichourblog.com/freelancers-out-of-comfort-zone/) - Staying in our comfort zone may make us feel more safe and secure, but we stifle our personal and professional growth when we remain there. What is a comfort zone? It’s been defined as a state of behavior that’s low-risk, anxiety-neutral, and enables us to deliver a steady level of performance with little growth. Many
- [8 Simple But Powerful Mindfulness Exercises to Practice on Set](https://magichourblog.com/mindfulness-exercises-on-set/) - Practicing mindfulness exercises at work is possible, even in the high-stress, fast-paced environment we work in on set. Mindfulness can be defined as the ability to be intensely aware of our thoughts, feelings, bodily sensations, and environment in the moment in a non-judgemental way. Practicing mindfulness exercises can divert our attention from stressful, negative thoughts
- [10 Big Mistakes You May Be Making in Your Industry Freelance Career](https://magichourblog.com/mistakes-industry-freelance-career/) - Whether you’re ready to take the next step in your freelance career or you’re just getting started, we all want our careers to thrive. Many of us learned the hard way from mistakes we could have avoided had we known the ins and outs of building a successful freelance career. (Note: This post may contain
- [10 Tips for Students Who Want to Work in the Film Industry](https://magichourblog.com/students-work-in-the-film-industry/) - There have always been plenty of people who want to work in the film industry. Some do what it takes to have a long, productive career in film production, and some move on when they realize that the business is not all what they expected. I’m writing this post for students and young people who
- [9 Simple Tips for Building Strong Relationships as a Freelancer](https://magichourblog.com/building-relationships-freelancer/) - Building strong relationships at work is essential, especially for freelancers. Our contacts in the industry are how we get jobs and establish our careers. So we need to grow strong professional relationships and surround ourselves with people who want to work with us. Having solid work relationships leads to increased career satisfaction and productivity. It’s
- [10 Big Commandments for Working in the Film Industry](https://magichourblog.com/10-commandments-film-industry/) - Every industry has its unique set of ‘commandments’ for those working in that space. Working in the film industry is no different, as those of us in it can attest. Anyone just starting out may be wondering about the set rules and etiquette they have to navigate. Hopefully, newbies will find these tips helpful, and
- [7 Promising Things Changing Film Sets for the Better](https://magichourblog.com/changing-film-sets-for-the-better/) - Change often comes slowly on film sets. Our industry tends to cling to outdated ways of doing things until forced to change. The pandemic and a rapidly changing society are finally bringing about some much-needed changes on set. For those of us who’ve worked in the industry for many years, these changes have been a
- [5 Sure-Fire Ways to Survive Film Production Jobs](https://magichourblog.com/to-survive-film-production-jobs/) - The downside of film production jobs has been in the news and on social media a lot lately. It’s the impetus behind the upcoming IATSE strike authorization vote. And it’s not only the film crews working on set. Editors and those working off production jobs in the industry have also had enough of the grueling
- [9 Odd Things About Industry Freelancing Work I Wish I Knew Starting Out](https://magichourblog.com/about-industry-freelancing-work/) - Do you remember your first job doing industry freelancing work? I remember mine. I had recently arrived in L.A. and had managed to get a job doing non-union extra work. It was a long day, and I remember being surprised at how hard the crew worked. Extra work was tedious, and I was glad when
- [6 Important Things to Know as a Film Industry Freelance Worker](https://magichourblog.com/things-to-know-as-freelance-worker/) - Many of us in the film industry work as freelance workers, meaning we don’t have a single employer; we go from job to job. There’s a great deal of uncertainty that comes with being a freelance worker, but there can also be a lot of freedom in not being tied to one job indefinitely. As
- [7 Ways Film and Television Productions Can Improve Safety on Set](https://magichourblog.com/film-television-productions-safety/) - Film and television productions have some work to do to improve safety on film sets. Recently, as you’ve undoubtedly heard, a tragic accident occurred on the set of the low-budget film Rust. A prop gun held by actor and producer Alec Baldwin misfired, killing cinematographer Halyna Hutchins and injuring director Joel Souza. A live round
- [5 Positive Things About Film Industry Work We Should Appreciate](https://magichourblog.com/positive-things-film-industry-work/) - Film industry work has been getting a bad rap lately, probably deservedly so. Recent IATSE negotiations have inspired many union members to tell their stories about some brutal conditions on set. Then there’s the tragic accidental shooting death of cinematographer Halyna Hutchins on the set of the low-budget film Rust. People following these stories
- [8 Major Warning Signs for Working on a Low-Budget Film](https://magichourblog.com/warning-signs-low-budget-film/) - After the recent tragic death on the low-budget film Rust and the subsequent revelations about lax safety on set, it’s worth examining a few warning signs that indicate we should avoid a particular low-budget project. All low-budget films are not equal. Many have safe, well-run sets, while others do not. Many of our colleagues have
- [10 Popular Changes That Could Make Film Crew Jobs More Humane](https://magichourblog.com/make-film-crew-jobs-more-humane/) - Film crew jobs can be brutal. Anyone who’s worked on set has at least one horror story to tell. It can be a challenging business, but many of those who work on film crews aren’t keeping silent anymore about the abusive conditions they’ve experienced. The recent IATSE strike authorization vote revealed a 99% ‘yes’ vote
- [5 Smart Additional Income Streams for Film Industry Freelancers](https://magichourblog.com/additional-income-streams/) - Additional income streams can be great to have, especially in our industry. For most of us, the film industry has always been a gig economy. Freelance work can be erratic in the best of times. There was no work for months when shows shut down during the pandemic. Live events still haven’t bounced back to
- [8 Useful Things I Learned Working in Television Production](https://magichourblog.com/learned-television-production/) - Working in television production can be a great learning experience. It may not always be pleasant, but you can learn some valuable lessons. I enjoyed my time working on TV shows, but it was not without its challenges. It’s a fast-paced, unpredictable work environment where things can change at a moment’s notice. Working in television
- [The 5 Best and Worst Jobs on a Film Set](https://magichourblog.com/best-and-worst-jobs-on-a-film-set/) - Which jobs on a film set are the best and the worst? It depends on whom you ask. I compiled this list based on my observations over many years of working on set, and I deliberately omitted the director and actor categories. People working in departments in the categories mentioned may disagree that they’re the
- [5 Smart Additional Income Streams for Film Freelancers - Part 2](https://magichourblog.com/income-streams-film-freelancers/) - A few weeks ago I wrote about some additional income streams to help film freelancers survive in our tumultuous industry. Here’s part two of that post, and it has some more ideas for revenue streams to bolster your income. Working in our industry can be a wild ride in the best of times. I know
- [7 Achievable Goals I'm Setting For 2022](https://magichourblog.com/achievable-goals-for-2022/) - Many of us have been thinking about achievable goals this week, things we hope to accomplish in the next twelve months and beyond. I prefer not to use the word 'resolution' because it always seems to set us up for failure. You may be familiar with the acronym S.M.A.R.T. for goal setting. It implies that
- [Vitrox RB08 LED Light Product Review](https://magichourblog.com/vitrox-rb08-led-light-review/) - The Vitrox RB08 LED Light is the camera light I didn't know I needed. My husband Warren, a retired Hollywood lighting technician, is always looking for new lights and thought we needed this one. He found a winner with the Vitrox RB08 LED Light. I thought this little light was just another cute novelty item
- [Cinematographers Want Overly Long Workdays Addressed in Contract Talks](https://magichourblog.com/cinematographers-contract-talks/) - Recently fourteen top film industry cinematographers and the president of the Cinematographers Guild, IATSE Local 600, signed a letter urging The Alliance of Motion Picture and Television Producers (AMPTP) member producers to address the brutally long workdays commonplace in the industry. I couldn’t agree more. It’s a pervasive safety issue that many of us who
- [10 Powerful Things I've Learned from Working Film Industry Jobs](https://magichourblog.com/things-learned-film-industry-jobs/) - We learn a lot of lessons in life and dealing with people by working film industry jobs. The rewards of working in a creative environment are balanced by the stress and brutally long hours we endure. We learn more than we realize by working with such a wide variety of people in constantly changing locations.
- [7 Valuable Teamwork Skills for a Successful Industry Career](https://magichourblog.com/teamwork-skills-successful-career/) - If ever there was an industry where essential teamwork skills are required, it’s the film industry. Numerous departments must work together to accomplish each day’s work. Yet, not everyone on set works well as part of a group. You can set yourself apart from the crowd by brushing up on a few critical skills for
- [10 Things We Can Learn About Career Success from the Olympians](https://magichourblog.com/career-success-from-the-olympians/) - The Olympics can be inspirational for career success, no matter what our endeavors may be. The human stories behind the victories are often more moving than the medal-winning. We can’t help but be motivated towards our own success while watching the achievements of the finest athletes in the world. Here are ten things we can
- [5 Surprising Personal Items I Never Go to Set Without](https://magichourblog.com/personal-items-not-to-set-without/) - You may be wondering why I’m writing about personal items on set, considering the vast array of ever-changing technology in the film industry. It’s because we don’t show up to set unprepared, and these are a few things I’ve found that I need to have the most productive day on set. Your own must-haves may
- [Is Work-Life Balance Scarce Working in the Film Industry?](https://magichourblog.com/work-life-balance-film-industry/) - We hear a lot about work-life balance these days, even more so since the pandemic. Many people don’t want to return to the office after working from home for more than a year. Most of us who work in the film industry never had that option. Working on set usually means that you have no
- [The 5 Best Things About Being an Industry Freelancer](https://magichourblog.com/5-best-things-being-a-freelancer/) - Last year was not a great time to be an industry freelancer. Productions shut down due to the pandemic, and everyone went through trying times. But last year wasn’t the norm, and we’re all moving forward in our lives and careers now. Despite tough times that come periodically, there are some great things about being
- [Should Production Companies Demand All Cast and Crew Be Vaccinated?](https://magichourblog.com/production-companies-vaccinated/) - According to recent reports, production companies, producers, and SAG-AFTRA have reached an agreement on mandatory vaccinations for everyone working on set. The industry's return-to-work safety protocol agreement will expire on June 30th. The SAG-AFTRA national board recently approved strict guidelines for employers to follow for mandatory vaccinations of casts and crews on set. According to
- [8 Set Pet Peeves That Drive A.D.s Crazy](https://magichourblog.com/pet-peeves-that-drive-a-d-s-crazy/) - Pet peeves exist in every workplace, and film sets are no exception. If you’ve worked on set for any length of time, you probably have plenty of pet peeves of your own. I certainly do. The nature of our jobs means that a.d.s interact with every department throughout the day, so we may have more
- [How Having Strong Interpersonal Skills Helps You Thrive at Work](https://magichourblog.com/interpersonal-skills-help-you/) - Interpersonal skills are more critical to your success than you may think. They’re the workplace social skills that make someone want to hire you more than someone else who’s equally qualified. So if you have strong interpersonal skills, you have a definite asset that will help your career. Just what are the skills that are
- [9 Things That'll Ruin Your Career as an Industry Freelancer](https://magichourblog.com/ruin-career-industry-freelancer/) - If you’re a film industry freelancer, you probably know how to get started building a successful career. You certainly do if you read this blog, as I’ve written numerous posts on this topic. But some things will tank your career fast. Unfortunately, we sometimes make mistakes that can have a long-term adverse effect on the
- [7 Top Tips for Updating Your In-Person Networking Skills](https://magichourblog.com/updating-your-networking-skills/) - Now that we’ve spent the past year perfecting our virtual networking skills, in-person networking events are about to come back. No matter how much we’ve missed the interaction at live events, we may all be a bit out of practice after more than a year of Zoom meetings. I know I am. So it’s time
- [10 Pros and Cons of Film Industry Freelancing](https://magichourblog.com/pros-and-cons-of-film-freelancing/) - Freelancing can be wonderful. It can also be highly challenging, especially in the film industry. Working as a freelancer can offer a great deal of freedom if you can handle unpredictability. We’ve seen recently that ‘secure’ jobs often aren’t that secure, and unexpected layoffs happen in every field. The pandemic has put many things into
- [How the Latest Big CDC Mask Recommendations Affect Film Crews](https://magichourblog.com/cdc-mask-recommendations-film-crews/) - The short answer is that film crews won’t be affected very much by the latest CDC mask recommendations, especially if they’re working on union sets. On May 13th, the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) issued some updated mask guidelines for those who are fully vaccinated. By now, most of us have gotten used
- [4 Useful Tips for Dealing With Difficult People on Set](https://magichourblog.com/tips-dealing-with-difficult-people/) - Difficult people are a fact of life in the film industry. Whether we work on set or off, it helps our careers and sanity to hone our skills in dealing with them. If you’ve done an entire show without having to deal with a single onerous personality, consider yourself fortunate. It’ll probably never happen again.
- [7 Valuable Tips for Conquering the Fear of Rejection as a Freelancer](https://magichourblog.com/conquering-the-fear-of-rejection/) - Everyone has experienced feelings of rejection at some point in their lives. We freelancers experience it more than most, as we’re always putting ourselves out there for jobs. The feelings associated with rejection aren’t pleasant. In fact, rejection has been shown to activate the same areas of the brain as physical pain. Fear of rejection
- [7 Proven Leadership Qualities For Sure Fire Career Success](https://magichourblog.com/leadership-qualities-for-success/) - Leadership qualities, or the lack of them, have been in the news quite a bit recently. Between reports of racist remarks made by industry leaders to the blatant sexism called out by the #MeToo movement, good leaders seem to be in short supply. And don’t even get me started on the physical and mental abuse
- [4 Important Signs Job Burnout May Be Harming Your Career](https://magichourblog.com/job-burnout-harming-your-career/) - Job burnout in the film industry is a problem that often goes unacknowledged. We may think the symptoms are merely the result of the long hours we all work in our business. However, the overwhelmed feeling we experience from job burnout can impact our ability to thrive mentally, emotionally, and physically. If we don’t acknowledge
- [7 Powerful Ways Mentorship Can Boost Your Freelance Career](https://magichourblog.com/mentorship-can-boost-your-career/) - Mentorship can help your career in subtle and obvious ways. We don’t hear as much about having a mentor in the film industry as we do in other industries, but that doesn’t mean it’s not a valuable asset. When I began working in production many years ago, my boss mentored me. It was an unofficial
- [5 Top Tips for Success as a Film Industry Freelancer](https://magichourblog.com/5-tips-for-success-as-a-freelancer/) - It can be challenging finding success as a freelancer, especially in the highly competitive film industry. However, each small step you take to build your career can have a powerful effect in the long run. While there isn't a precise roadmap for freelance success, there are a few proven things you can do that are
- [The 7 Most Important Lessons I Learned Last Year](https://magichourblog.com/7-lessons-i-learned-last-year/) - The past year has taught us all some important lessons about ourselves and our industry, whether we wanted to learn them or not. Having our world turned upside down overnight will do that. But the end of the pandemic is in sight, even though it’s not quite here yet. It’s an apt time to reflect
- [5 Simple Set Etiquette Tips to Boost Your Career](https://magichourblog.com/set-etiquette-to-boost-your-career/) - I wrote this post on set etiquette primarily for everyone who works or wants to work as an extra. If you’re relatively new to the industry or working as an extra for the first time, there are some set etiquette tips you need to know. Brand new actors may find some of them helpful, too.
- [5 Positive Changes We Made in the Past Year](https://magichourblog.com/5-positive-changes-in-the-past-year/) - It may not seem like it, but we've all made some positive changes in our lives in the past year. We just passed the one-year anniversary of the national shutdown, and it seems the pandemic has changed our lives and the industry in which so many of us work forever. It remains to be seen
- [Can Abusive Workplace Bullying on Set Be Stopped?](https://magichourblog.com/can-workplace-bullying-be-stopped/) - Workplace bullying has probably been around for as long as there have been workplaces. But now, it seems to be in the news a lot more than in the past. If you’ve spent any time on social media lately, you’ve undoubtedly come across people calling others out for abusive behavior from the film industry to
- [7 Ways to Stay Mentally Strong in the Film Industry](https://magichourblog.com/stay-mentally-strong-film-industry/) - The film industry needs to put more emphasis on mental health. Everyone who works in the industry knows that it’s a high-stress business with erratic work schedules and unemployment periods that can last for months. This past year the pandemic has shown just how unpredictable working in the film industry can be. The industry shut-down
- [Here's Why Widespread Vaccinations Will Be a Win For  Filming](https://magichourblog.com/vaccinations-a-win-for-filming/) - Although many of us have returned to work, everyone who works in the industry is well aware of how productions stopped filming at a moment’s notice last spring. As we struggled through the shutdown with no end in sight, industry unions and producers tried to figure out how everyone could return to work safely. It
- [Why Are So Many Big Current Movies So Depressing?](https://magichourblog.com/why-are-movies-so-depressing/) - The current movies that are up for award consideration this year are not what I would have expected from a year like 2020. This past year has been a train wreck crashing into a dumpster fire for many of us. The pandemic and subsequent production shut down caused months of unemployment and financial instability. The
- [5 Things I'll Never Again Be Comfortable Doing at Work](https://magichourblog.com/things-ill-never-be-doing-at-work/) - Things at work have certainly changed in the past year. All the adjustments we’ve had to make since last March seemed temporary at first, but we’re still adapting to a new reality. When the pandemic eventually ends, we can get back to ‘normal,’ but what will that look like at work? I almost feel nostalgic
- [Do Big Industry Award Shows Still Really Matter?](https://magichourblog.com/industry-award-shows-still-matter/) - It’s award show season in Hollywood, but are industry award shows even relevant anymore in the middle of a pandemic? This time last year, people were talking about Oscar parties and picking their favorite films. This year everyone seems less interested. Many films never even had theatrical releases, as movie theaters were closed for months.
- [The Genuine Truth About Working in Film Production](https://magichourblog.com/working-in-film-production/) - Film production is one of those fields that has an aura of mystery, and possibly even glamour, for those unfamiliar with what the work actually entails. It’s been a challenging 10 months for those of us who work in production. First with the shutdown and months of no work, followed by a return to work
- [The Ultimate 7 Deadly Sins of Filmmaking](https://magichourblog.com/7-deadly-sins-of-filmmaking/) - Filmmaking can be a cut throat business, and those who work in it can sometimes be less than ethical in their march to the top. Every industry has its transgressors, but the film industry often seems to have more than its fair share. In fact, I’ve been inspired to create a 7 deadly sins list
- [5 Simple Ways Trade Organizations Can Help Your Career](https://magichourblog.com/trade-organizations-help-career/) - Trade organizations exist in just about every field, and the entertainment industry is no exception. Many people overlook the organizations and associations that can help build their careers. That’s unfortunate, because freelancers especially can really benefit from belonging to and participating in a trade organization. The cost of membership is a tax write off, so
- [3 Big Things We'll See in the Film Industry in 2021](https://magichourblog.com/the-film-industry-in-2021/) - The film industry went through quite an upheaval in 2020, as did we all. I never would have imagined that film production would shut down for months, as the year started off so busy with filming before the pandemic hit. I was working in Los Angeles during the tumultuous events of the 1992 riots and
- [Surprise Ways You Actually Triumphed in 2020](https://magichourblog.com/ways-you-triumphed-in-2020/) - It’s been difficult for most of us to find many triumphs in the bleakness of the year 2020. Financial stress, illness, death and racial violence have all reared their ugly heads during this tumultuous year. Everyone has been touched in some way by the challenges of the past 9 months. But we’ve survived, and possibly
- [5 Revealing Things I Learned From an Expert in Film Set Safety](https://magichourblog.com/from-an-expert-in-film-set-safety/) - Film set safety has been the major issue on sets for the past several months. The pandemic has certainly drawn attention to the crucial role set medics are now playing in keeping sets safe. I recently had a conversation with set medic Dave Giere, a colleague I’ve worked with in the past. Dave is a
- [5 Powerful Ways to Focus Your Career in 2021](https://magichourblog.com/focus-your-career-in-2021/) - Your career could probably use some re-focusing in 2021. The personal and professional disruption caused by COVID-19 still lingers, but it’s time to think about setting yourself up for success in 2021. We may not realize it, but we’ve all had to learn some valuable skills this past year that can be very beneficial to
- [5 Powerful Ways Gratitude Can Boost Your Career](https://magichourblog.com/gratitude-can-boost-your-career/) - Practicing gratitude seems to be part of many discussions about health and well-being lately. But recent studies are finding that it can also play a significant role in our career success. 2020 has been a difficult year for those of us who work in the entertainment industry. Lockdowns and work shutdowns left many of us
- [7 Things in My Career I Will Never Regret](https://magichourblog.com/things-in-my-career-never-regret/) - Career regrets are common in the film industry, for those who work both in front of and behind the camera. Actors turn down what ultimately end up being Oscar winning roles or hit TV series. We freelance crew members sometimes make our own bad career decisions. As freelancers, it’s sometimes hard to define the line
- [5 Easy Ways to Make the Most of Career Opportunities](https://magichourblog.com/the-most-of-career-opportunities/) - Career opportunities often come when we least expect them. Unfortunately, not everyone is prepared to make the most of them when they do show up. Those who’ve laid the groundwork in advance for their own success will be well positioned to seize career opportunities when they do arise. You may have heard the saying that
- [Video Self-Tapes: How To Look Fabulous](https://magichourblog.com/video-self-tapes-look-fabulous/) - Video self-tapes have become extremely popular. Since the pandemic, they’ve pretty much replaced in person auditions. Everyone seems to be doing a video self-tape these days, whether for an audition, a product promotion or a business. My agent recently held a Zoom seminar with clients to share some tips for successful self-taping. I know from
- [5 Absolutely Awful Things About Working in Film Production](https://magichourblog.com/awful-things-about-film-production/) - Film production is an interesting, creative business. It can also be a brutal and incredibly stressful way to earn a living. I’ve enjoyed my long career in the film industry, but I have to admit there are things I hate about the business of film production. The highs are very high and the lows are
- [10 Timely Tips for Sure Fire Success in the Film Industry](https://magichourblog.com/10-timely-tips-for-success/) - Success in the film industry isn’t always easily achieved. It can be a brutal business, and that’s not counting all the difficult changes that have come about due to the COVID-19 pandemic. However, there are certain traits that are valued and appreciated. They make you stand out from the crowd. You’ll find yourself fully booked,
- [What Makes Popular Horror Films Super Scary?](https://magichourblog.com/what-makes-horror-films-scary/) - To horror film fans, horror films are as much a part of Halloween as trick or treating. Trick or treating may not be a big part of Halloween this year, but horror films are still around, waiting to scare the pants off us. Great horror films get into our psyches and tap into our most
- [The Scary Truth About Workplace Safety on Non-Union Sets](https://magichourblog.com/workplace-safety-on-non-union-sets/) - Workplace safety is currently a massive challenge being faced on both union and non-union film sets. However, union crews now have the Industry-Wide COVID-19 Return to Work Agreement as a contract agreement negotiated with employers. Non-union crews have no such agreement in place, allowing for a patchwork of safety protocols ranging from extremely strict to
- [Reducing Stress in a Competitive, High-Stress Industry](https://magichourblog.com/reducing-stress-stressful-industry/) - I've made reducing stress a major priority in my life, and it's had a positive effect on my physical, mental and emotional well-being. Those of us who work in the entertainment industry know it's an extremely competitive, high-stress business. Tight shooting schedules and brutally long hours are the norm. The added pressure of dealing with
- [The Big Challenge of Workplace Safety on Film Sets](https://magichourblog.com/workplace-safety-on-film-sets/) - Workplace safety is a topic that has been discussed quite a bit in the past six months. The Industry-Wide COVID-19 Return to Work Agreement has been finally been reached between the producers and the unions (the DGA, SAG-AFTRA, IATSE and the Teamsters.) Unlike The Safe Way Forward document that came out in June, this agreement
- [10 Powerful Personal Growth Tips Learned in the Industry](https://magichourblog.com/10-powerful-personal-growth-tips/) - Personal growth is something not often associated with going to work, but the workplace can actually transform us in unexpected ways. Especially in the entertainment industry, where the people we work with and the locations we work in are constantly changing. In the film industry, we often work with a wider variety of people in
- [The Challenge of Going to Work Safely](https://magichourblog.com/challenge-of-going-to-work-safely/) - Going to work isn’t what it used to be. Especially in the entertainment industry. We all want to work again, but we now face risks that we never had to face before. Many who work in live entertainment don’t even have the prospect of a job at all. To say it’s a difficult time is
- [5 Ways I'm Staying Safe on Set During COVID-19](https://magichourblog.com/staying-safe-on-set-during-covid-19/) - Staying safe on set can be challenging during the COVID-19 pandemic. I recently learned that another fellow DGA member has died from the virus. I heard that he got sick a few days after working on a 6-day commercial that had no testing protocols in place. In addition to the outpouring of grief on social
- [The Tremendous Power of Virtual Networking](https://magichourblog.com/the-tremendous-power-of-virtual-networking/) - The pandemic has brought much uncertainty to our lives and careers in the past several months. Jobs being indefinitely postponed and unfamiliar new health and safety regulations on set are just two of the many unsettling situations that some of us have had to deal with recently. But there’s one proactive step we can take
- [3 Positive Steps to Boost Your Well-Being](https://magichourblog.com/3-positive-steps-to-boost-your-well-being/) - During the long months of this pandemic, many of us have been slogging through each day without much thought about our mental and emotional well-being. The shock we felt 4 months ago, as everything shut down, has been replaced with frustration and anxiety that this isn’t over yet. Life has not returned to normal and
- [2 Urgent Changes the Film Industry Needs Now](https://magichourblog.com/2-urgent-changes-the-film-industry-needs-now/) - It’s been a difficult few months for the film industry and many of us who work in it. This pandemic isn’t done with us yet, although we’re all more than ready to be done with it. Producers are still trying to figure out how productions can implement the recommended safety guidelines so shows can start
- [10 Startling Safety Changes on Film Sets](https://magichourblog.com/10-startling-safety-changes-on-film-sets/) - The Production Safety Guidelines for working safely on film sets, a joint effort between the DGA, SAG-AFTRA, IATSE and the Teamsters Committees, has been released. Now we’re slowly starting to get back to work. I had my first job since all productions shut down last week. It was a on a commercial, with some of
- [7 Strong Points - Film Industry COVID-19 Safety Guidelines](https://magichourblog.com/7-strong-points-film-industry-covid-19-safety-guidelines/) - The Industry-Wide Labor-Management Safety Committee Task Force has released their film industry safety guidelines for resuming production. California Governor Gavin Newsom signed off on these safety protocols, allowing filming in the state to start again on June 12th. IATSE Local 600, the International Cinematographers Guild, also released their own set of Recommended Departmental Protocols. Both
- [3 Ways the Entertainment Industry Will Surge](https://magichourblog.com/3-ways-the-entertainment-industry-will-surge/) - Every day we’re getting closer to the entertainment industry reopening and everyone returning to work, albeit under very different circumstances. The State of Georgia has already released their guide for restarting film production titled Film and Television Best Practices to Reduce Contagion of COVID-19. A film industry task force, including representatives from the AMPTP, SAG-AFTRA,
- [5 Simple Things That Will Be Obsolete on Film Sets](https://magichourblog.com/5-simple-things-that-will-be-obsolete-on-film-sets/) - Filming in some places is slowly starting up again after a long hiatus, but working on film sets will not be the same as it was before. The pandemic has changed many common practices within the entertainment industry, both on and off set. Our work practices on set, or even in the production office, will
- [Movie Travel: 5 Favorite Film Locations to Explore](https://magichourblog.com/movie-travel-5-favorite-film-locations-to-explore/) - Is movie travel included in your future travel plans, now that you’ve probably been watching more movies and TV shows than usual? It’s definitely in my travel plans. There’s nothing that makes me more eager to visit a place than seeing it beautifully photographed in a film I enjoy. Before the pandemic, film tourism was
- [Networking With Colleagues During the Pandemic](https://magichourblog.com/networking-with-colleagues-during-the-pandemic/) - Networking must go on, even during the pandemic. Yes, I know some days it’s hard to tear ourselves away from Netflix. Film production will start again though, and it’s essential to make an effort to continue networking with our colleagues and contacts right now. Last week I got an email from a young woman I
- [Top TV Shows: What are your favorites?](https://magichourblog.com/top-tv-shows-what-are-your-favorites/) - At this point in our home-bound, surreal, pandemic-limited existence, many of us have just about watched out all of our top TV shows on Netflix, Amazon Prime Video and Hulu. Fortunately, the availability of so many streaming options means TV has many more high quality shows than in the past. Since we’re stuck at home,
- [Entertainment Industry Trends: Will Work Ever be Fun Again?](https://magichourblog.com/entertainment-industry-trends-will-work-ever-be-fun-again/) - Many entertainment industry trends have evolved over the years, from talking pictures to television to streaming movies. However, we’ve never seen anything like what this pandemic is doing to our industry. Although it can sometimes feel as though we’re floating through a parallel universe, at some point production will actually resume and many of us
- [8 Creative Activities to Promote Well-Being](https://magichourblog.com/8-creative-activities-to-promote-well-being/) - Many of us have creative hobbies and activities that we usually don’t have time to pursue when we’re working. Well, now we suddenly have plenty of time, and we all desperately need some stress relief. Our creative hobbies are more than just idle past times. Recent studies have shown that creative leisure activities don’t just
- [5 Popular Entertainment Industry Misconceptions](https://magichourblog.com/5-popular-entertainment-industry-misconceptions/) - Every industry has misconceptions about it that people hold while looking in from the outside, perhaps none more so than the entertainment industry. The entire business is based on creating fantasy worlds, and that’s often confused with what goes into the actual work of film production. Anyone who has worked in the business for any
- [Film Set Safety Post-Pandemic](https://magichourblog.com/film-set-safety-post-pandemic/) - After reading the latest shocking statistics about the spread of Covid-19, it’s hard to imagine how we can ever possibly work safely on a film set again. Once this virus does start to dissipate and filming resumes, we’ll be working on set in a new normal. I can’t recall ever even hearing the term ‘social
- [Top 10 Films of All Time - What's on Your List?](https://magichourblog.com/top-10-films-of-all-time-whats-on-your-list/) - Now that we've been told to stay at home and work from home, many of us are getting a bit bored, if not starting to go crazy. What better time to revisit some of our favorite films, especially since we're probably watching far more films than we're making these days. The Hollywood Reporter recently came
- [10 Simple Things To Focus on as Production Halts](https://magichourblog.com/10-simple-things-to-focus-on-as-production-halts/) - Surviving as a freelancer in the entertainment industry is challenging in the best of times. In the midst of the COVID-19 crisis, it's downright terrifying. That's why I'm focusing on 10 simple things that I can do at home to stay calm and stress-free during this trying time. We freelancers are used to uncertainty. Many
- [Example Blog Post #10](https://magichourblog.com/example-blog-post-10/) - Nam ultrices orci nibh, eget malesuada nibh eleifend sit amet. Aliquam laoreet diam ut quam fringilla egestas. Cras commodo erat quis congue pretium. Aliquam erat volutpat. Quisque elementum tortor elit, ac porta leo ultrices id. Aliquam sit amet mattis mi. Donec facilisis consectetur interdum. Curabitur aliquam consequat ullamcorper. Maecenas eget lectus commodo, laoreet nulla eu, viverra enim. Cum sociis natoque penatibus et magnis dis parturient montes, nascetur ridiculus mus.
- [Example Blog Post #9](https://magichourblog.com/example-blog-post-9/) - Nam ultrices orci nibh, eget malesuada nibh eleifend sit amet. Aliquam laoreet diam ut quam fringilla egestas. Cras commodo erat quis congue pretium. Aliquam erat volutpat. Quisque elementum tortor elit, ac porta leo ultrices id. Aliquam sit amet mattis mi. Donec facilisis consectetur interdum. Curabitur aliquam consequat ullamcorper. Maecenas eget lectus commodo, laoreet nulla eu, viverra enim. Cum sociis natoque penatibus et magnis dis parturient montes, nascetur ridiculus mus.
- [Example Blog Post #8](https://magichourblog.com/example-blog-post-8/) - Nam ultrices orci nibh, eget malesuada nibh eleifend sit amet. Aliquam laoreet diam ut quam fringilla egestas. Cras commodo erat quis congue pretium. Aliquam erat volutpat. Quisque elementum tortor elit, ac porta leo ultrices id. Aliquam sit amet mattis mi. Donec facilisis consectetur interdum. Curabitur aliquam consequat ullamcorper. Maecenas eget lectus commodo, laoreet nulla eu, viverra enim. Cum sociis natoque penatibus et magnis dis parturient montes, nascetur ridiculus mus.
- [Example Blog Post #7](https://magichourblog.com/example-blog-post-7/) - Nam ultrices orci nibh, eget malesuada nibh eleifend sit amet. Aliquam laoreet diam ut quam fringilla egestas. Cras commodo erat quis congue pretium. Aliquam erat volutpat. Quisque elementum tortor elit, ac porta leo ultrices id. Aliquam sit amet mattis mi. Donec facilisis consectetur interdum. Curabitur aliquam consequat ullamcorper. Maecenas eget lectus commodo, laoreet nulla eu, viverra enim. Cum sociis natoque penatibus et magnis dis parturient montes, nascetur ridiculus mus.
- [Example Blog Post #6](https://magichourblog.com/example-blog-post-6/) - Nam ultrices orci nibh, eget malesuada nibh eleifend sit amet. Aliquam laoreet diam ut quam fringilla egestas. Cras commodo erat quis congue pretium. Aliquam erat volutpat. Quisque elementum tortor elit, ac porta leo ultrices id. Aliquam sit amet mattis mi. Donec facilisis consectetur interdum. Curabitur aliquam consequat ullamcorper. Maecenas eget lectus commodo, laoreet nulla eu, viverra enim. Cum sociis natoque penatibus et magnis dis parturient montes, nascetur ridiculus mus.
- [Example Blog Post #5](https://magichourblog.com/example-blog-post-5/) - Nam ultrices orci nibh, eget malesuada nibh eleifend sit amet. Aliquam laoreet diam ut quam fringilla egestas. Cras commodo erat quis congue pretium. Aliquam erat volutpat. Quisque elementum tortor elit, ac porta leo ultrices id. Aliquam sit amet mattis mi. Donec facilisis consectetur interdum. Curabitur aliquam consequat ullamcorper. Maecenas eget lectus commodo, laoreet nulla eu, viverra enim. Cum sociis natoque penatibus et magnis dis parturient montes, nascetur ridiculus mus.
- [Example Blog Post #4](https://magichourblog.com/example-blog-post-4/) - Nam ultrices orci nibh, eget malesuada nibh eleifend sit amet. Aliquam laoreet diam ut quam fringilla egestas. Cras commodo erat quis congue pretium. Aliquam erat volutpat. Quisque elementum tortor elit, ac porta leo ultrices id. Aliquam sit amet mattis mi. Donec facilisis consectetur interdum. Curabitur aliquam consequat ullamcorper. Maecenas eget lectus commodo, laoreet nulla eu, viverra enim. Cum sociis natoque penatibus et magnis dis parturient montes, nascetur ridiculus mus.
- [Example Blog Post #3](https://magichourblog.com/example-blog-post-3/) - Nam ultrices orci nibh, eget malesuada nibh eleifend sit amet. Aliquam laoreet diam ut quam fringilla egestas. Cras commodo erat quis congue pretium. Aliquam erat volutpat. Quisque elementum tortor elit, ac porta leo ultrices id. Aliquam sit amet mattis mi. Donec facilisis consectetur interdum. Curabitur aliquam consequat ullamcorper. Maecenas eget lectus commodo, laoreet nulla eu, viverra enim. Cum sociis natoque penatibus et magnis dis parturient montes, nascetur ridiculus mus.
- [Example Blog Post #2](https://magichourblog.com/example-blog-post-2/) - Nam ultrices orci nibh, eget malesuada nibh eleifend sit amet. Aliquam laoreet diam ut quam fringilla egestas. Cras commodo erat quis congue pretium. Aliquam erat volutpat. Quisque elementum tortor elit, ac porta leo ultrices id. Aliquam sit amet mattis mi. Donec facilisis consectetur interdum. Curabitur aliquam consequat ullamcorper. Maecenas eget lectus commodo, laoreet nulla eu, viverra enim. Cum sociis natoque penatibus et magnis dis parturient montes, nascetur ridiculus mus.
- [Example Blog Post #1](https://magichourblog.com/example-blog-post-1/) - Nam ultrices orci nibh, eget malesuada nibh eleifend sit amet. Aliquam laoreet diam ut quam fringilla egestas. Cras commodo erat quis congue pretium. Aliquam erat volutpat. Quisque elementum tortor elit, ac porta leo ultrices id. Aliquam sit amet mattis mi. Donec facilisis consectetur interdum. Curabitur aliquam consequat ullamcorper. Maecenas eget lectus commodo, laoreet nulla eu, viverra enim. Cum sociis natoque penatibus et magnis dis parturient montes, nascetur ridiculus mus.

## Pages

- [About Me](https://magichourblog.com/about/) - I’m Judy Moore, a long-time DGA member who has worked in the film industry on numerous films, television shows, and commercials as an assistant director, in both Los Angeles and Arizona. I’ve also worked as an actor, extra, model, production assistant, production coordinator, and DGA trainee at various times in my career. Since I've spent
- [Contact Me](https://magichourblog.com/contact/) - The Magic Hour Blog is here to help freelancers build successful careers in the film industry. Feel free to contact me.
- [Blog Posts](https://magichourblog.com/blog-posts/)
- [Home](https://magichourblog.com/home/)

## Categories

- [Uncategorized](https://magichourblog.com/category/uncategorized/)
- [Freelance Survival](https://magichourblog.com/category/freelance-survival/) - Posts about surviving and thriving as a film industry freelancer
- [Industry News](https://magichourblog.com/category/industry-news/) - Industry news that affects how we work on set
- [Top 10 Lists](https://magichourblog.com/category/top-10-lists/)
- [Film Set Safety](https://magichourblog.com/category/film-set-safety/) - Posts about film set safety
- [Product Reviews](https://magichourblog.com/category/product-reviews/) - Reviews of products
- [Unions](https://magichourblog.com/category/unions/) - Posts about film industry unions

## Tags

- [featured](https://magichourblog.com/tag/featured/)
- [film production](https://magichourblog.com/tag/film-production/)
- [social distancing](https://magichourblog.com/tag/social-distancing/)
- [entertainment](https://magichourblog.com/tag/entertainment/)
- [self-care](https://magichourblog.com/tag/self-care/)
- [films](https://magichourblog.com/tag/films/)
- [movies](https://magichourblog.com/tag/movies/)
- [film making](https://magichourblog.com/tag/film-making/)
- [classic films](https://magichourblog.com/tag/classic-films/)
- [top 10 film list](https://magichourblog.com/tag/top-10-film-list/)
- [film set safety](https://magichourblog.com/tag/film-set-safety/)
- [hygiene](https://magichourblog.com/tag/hygiene/)
- [filmmaking](https://magichourblog.com/tag/filmmaking/)
- [entertainment industry](https://magichourblog.com/tag/entertainment-industry/)
- [film industry](https://magichourblog.com/tag/film-industry/)
- [entertainment industry jobs](https://magichourblog.com/tag/entertainment-industry-jobs/)
- [film school](https://magichourblog.com/tag/film-school/)
- [creative activities](https://magichourblog.com/tag/creative-activities/)
- [creative hobbies](https://magichourblog.com/tag/creative-hobbies/)
- [stress relief](https://magichourblog.com/tag/stress-relief/)
- [well being](https://magichourblog.com/tag/well-being/)
- [knitting](https://magichourblog.com/tag/knitting/)
- [cooking](https://magichourblog.com/tag/cooking/)
- [painting](https://magichourblog.com/tag/painting/)
- [drawing](https://magichourblog.com/tag/drawing/)
- [writing](https://magichourblog.com/tag/writing/)
- [dancing](https://magichourblog.com/tag/dancing/)
- [gardening](https://magichourblog.com/tag/gardening/)
- [improv](https://magichourblog.com/tag/improv/)
- [playing an instrument](https://magichourblog.com/tag/playing-an-instrument/)
- [television](https://magichourblog.com/tag/television/)
- [entertainment industry resources](https://magichourblog.com/tag/entertainment-industry-resources/)
- [top TV shows](https://magichourblog.com/tag/top-tv-shows/)
- [classic TV shows](https://magichourblog.com/tag/classic-tv-shows/)
- [favorite TV shows](https://magichourblog.com/tag/favorite-tv-shows/)
- [networking](https://magichourblog.com/tag/networking/)
- [social media](https://magichourblog.com/tag/social-media/)
- [remote networking](https://magichourblog.com/tag/remote-networking/)
- [movie travel](https://magichourblog.com/tag/movie-travel/)
- [film locations](https://magichourblog.com/tag/film-locations/)
- [movie locales](https://magichourblog.com/tag/movie-locales/)
- [Westworld](https://magichourblog.com/tag/westworld/)
- [Downton Abbey](https://magichourblog.com/tag/downton-abbey/)
- [The Durrells in Corfu](https://magichourblog.com/tag/the-durrells-in-corfu/)
- [Lord of the Rings](https://magichourblog.com/tag/lord-of-the-rings/)
- [Midnight in Paris](https://magichourblog.com/tag/midnight-in-paris/)
- [food safety](https://magichourblog.com/tag/food-safety/)
- [safety protocols](https://magichourblog.com/tag/safety-protocols/)
- [streaming](https://magichourblog.com/tag/streaming/)
- [movie sets](https://magichourblog.com/tag/movie-sets/)
- [film sets](https://magichourblog.com/tag/film-sets/)
- [wrap parties](https://magichourblog.com/tag/wrap-parties/)
- [craft service](https://magichourblog.com/tag/craft-service/)
- [live entertainment](https://magichourblog.com/tag/live-entertainment/)
- [virtual events](https://magichourblog.com/tag/virtual-events/)
- [film industry COVID-19 safety guidelines](https://magichourblog.com/tag/film-industry-covid-19-safety-guidelines/)
- [filming](https://magichourblog.com/tag/filming/)
- [production safety guidelines](https://magichourblog.com/tag/production-safety-guidelines/)
- [set medic](https://magichourblog.com/tag/set-medic/)
- [paid sick days](https://magichourblog.com/tag/paid-sick-days/)
- [workplace safety](https://magichourblog.com/tag/workplace-safety/)
- [workplace health](https://magichourblog.com/tag/workplace-health/)
- [virtual networking](https://magichourblog.com/tag/virtual-networking/)
- [online networking](https://magichourblog.com/tag/online-networking/)
- [staying safe on set](https://magichourblog.com/tag/staying-safe-on-set/)
- [COVID-19 set safety guidelines](https://magichourblog.com/tag/covid-19-set-safety-guidelines/)
- [film set safety protocols](https://magichourblog.com/tag/film-set-safety-protocols/)
- [set safety on commercials](https://magichourblog.com/tag/set-safety-on-commercials/)
- [going to work safely](https://magichourblog.com/tag/going-to-work-safely/)
- [safety in the workplace](https://magichourblog.com/tag/safety-in-the-workplace/)
- [going back to work](https://magichourblog.com/tag/going-back-to-work/)
- [Vitrox RB08 LED Light](https://magichourblog.com/tag/vitrox-rb08-led-light/)
- [camera lights](https://magichourblog.com/tag/camera-lights/)
- [LED lights](https://magichourblog.com/tag/led-lights/)
- [Portable LED camera light](https://magichourblog.com/tag/portable-led-camera-light/)
- [LED camera light with adjustable color temperature](https://magichourblog.com/tag/led-camera-light-with-adjustable-color-temperature/)
- [personal growth](https://magichourblog.com/tag/personal-growth/)
- [workplace coping skills](https://magichourblog.com/tag/workplace-coping-skills/)
- [work stress](https://magichourblog.com/tag/work-stress/)
- [staying calm at work](https://magichourblog.com/tag/staying-calm-at-work/)
- [COVID-19 Return to Work Agreement](https://magichourblog.com/tag/covid-19-return-to-work-agreement/)
- [COVID-19 film production safety](https://magichourblog.com/tag/covid-19-film-production-safety/)
- [reducing stress](https://magichourblog.com/tag/reducing-stress/)
- [stress reduction techniques](https://magichourblog.com/tag/stress-reduction-techniques/)
- [reducing stress at work](https://magichourblog.com/tag/reducing-stress-at-work/)
- [relaxation techniques](https://magichourblog.com/tag/relaxation-techniques/)
- [reducing anxiety](https://magichourblog.com/tag/reducing-anxiety/)
- [horror films](https://magichourblog.com/tag/horror-films/)
- [making horror films](https://magichourblog.com/tag/making-horror-films/)
- [elements of horror films](https://magichourblog.com/tag/elements-of-horror-films/)
- [scary horror films](https://magichourblog.com/tag/scary-horror-films/)
- [success in the film industry](https://magichourblog.com/tag/success-in-the-film-industry/)
- [career success](https://magichourblog.com/tag/career-success/)
- [tips for success](https://magichourblog.com/tag/tips-for-success/)
- [freelancing](https://magichourblog.com/tag/freelancing/)
- [freelancers](https://magichourblog.com/tag/freelancers/)
- [video self-tapes](https://magichourblog.com/tag/video-self-tapes/)
- [video](https://magichourblog.com/tag/video/)
- [self-tape auditions](https://magichourblog.com/tag/self-tape-auditions/)
- [self-taping tips](https://magichourblog.com/tag/self-taping-tips/)
- [career opportunities](https://magichourblog.com/tag/career-opportunities/)
- [freelance survival](https://magichourblog.com/tag/freelance-survival/)
- [careers](https://magichourblog.com/tag/careers/)
- [freelance careers](https://magichourblog.com/tag/freelance-careers/)
- [gratitude](https://magichourblog.com/tag/gratitude/)
- [practicing gratitude](https://magichourblog.com/tag/practicing-gratitude/)
- [career improvement](https://magichourblog.com/tag/career-improvement/)
- [career challenges](https://magichourblog.com/tag/career-challenges/)
- [safety](https://magichourblog.com/tag/safety/)
- [freelance success](https://magichourblog.com/tag/freelance-success/)
- [film industry success](https://magichourblog.com/tag/film-industry-success/)
- [diversity in film](https://magichourblog.com/tag/diversity-in-film/)
- [trade organizations](https://magichourblog.com/tag/trade-organizations/)
- [career building](https://magichourblog.com/tag/career-building/)
- [leadership](https://magichourblog.com/tag/leadership/)
- [Award Shows](https://magichourblog.com/tag/award-shows/)
- [Academy Awards](https://magichourblog.com/tag/academy-awards/)
- [personality traits](https://magichourblog.com/tag/personality-traits/)
- [workplace](https://magichourblog.com/tag/workplace/)
- [current movies](https://magichourblog.com/tag/current-movies/)
- [award nominations](https://magichourblog.com/tag/award-nominations/)
- [film tourism](https://magichourblog.com/tag/film-tourism/)
- [mental health](https://magichourblog.com/tag/mental-health/)
- [bullying](https://magichourblog.com/tag/bullying/)
- [positive changes](https://magichourblog.com/tag/positive-changes/)
- [film set etiquette](https://magichourblog.com/tag/film-set-etiquette/)
- [background actors](https://magichourblog.com/tag/background-actors/)
- [extras](https://magichourblog.com/tag/extras/)
- [film industry events](https://magichourblog.com/tag/film-industry-events/)
- [mentorship](https://magichourblog.com/tag/mentorship/)
- [advantages of mentors](https://magichourblog.com/tag/advantages-of-mentors/)
- [job burnout](https://magichourblog.com/tag/job-burnout/)
- [leadership skills](https://magichourblog.com/tag/leadership-skills/)
- [leadership qualities](https://magichourblog.com/tag/leadership-qualities/)
- [fear of rejection](https://magichourblog.com/tag/fear-of-rejection/)
- [freelance career](https://magichourblog.com/tag/freelance-career/)
- [dealing with difficult people](https://magichourblog.com/tag/dealing-with-difficult-people/)
- [difficult personalities](https://magichourblog.com/tag/difficult-personalities/)
- [film crews](https://magichourblog.com/tag/film-crews/)
- [networking skills](https://magichourblog.com/tag/networking-skills/)
- [networking events](https://magichourblog.com/tag/networking-events/)
- [film industry freelancer](https://magichourblog.com/tag/film-industry-freelancer/)
- [filmmaking careers](https://magichourblog.com/tag/filmmaking-careers/)
- [interpersonal skills](https://magichourblog.com/tag/interpersonal-skills/)
- [pet peeves](https://magichourblog.com/tag/pet-peeves/)
- [film production safety guidelines](https://magichourblog.com/tag/film-production-safety-guidelines/)
- [production companies](https://magichourblog.com/tag/production-companies/)
- [work-life balance](https://magichourblog.com/tag/work-life-balance/)
- [non-union and union](https://magichourblog.com/tag/non-union-and-union/)
- [working in the film industry](https://magichourblog.com/tag/working-in-the-film-industry/)
- [film industry jobs](https://magichourblog.com/tag/film-industry-jobs/)
- [personal items on set](https://magichourblog.com/tag/personal-items-on-set/)
- [teamwork skills](https://magichourblog.com/tag/teamwork-skills/)
- [teamwork](https://magichourblog.com/tag/teamwork/)
- [heat safety](https://magichourblog.com/tag/heat-safety/)
- [cinematographers](https://magichourblog.com/tag/cinematographers/)
- [building work relationships](https://magichourblog.com/tag/building-work-relationships/)
- [film production jobs](https://magichourblog.com/tag/film-production-jobs/)
- [film set life](https://magichourblog.com/tag/film-set-life/)
- [freelancing work](https://magichourblog.com/tag/freelancing-work/)
- [set life](https://magichourblog.com/tag/set-life/)
- [freelance worker](https://magichourblog.com/tag/freelance-worker/)
- [joining a union](https://magichourblog.com/tag/joining-a-union/)
- [film industry unions](https://magichourblog.com/tag/film-industry-unions/)
- [film industry work](https://magichourblog.com/tag/film-industry-work/)
- [low-budget films](https://magichourblog.com/tag/low-budget-films/)
- [film crew jobs](https://magichourblog.com/tag/film-crew-jobs/)
- [additional income streams](https://magichourblog.com/tag/additional-income-streams/)
- [television production](https://magichourblog.com/tag/television-production/)
- [television shows](https://magichourblog.com/tag/television-shows/)
- [jobs on a film set](https://magichourblog.com/tag/jobs-on-a-film-set/)
- [orthofeet](https://magichourblog.com/tag/orthofeet/)
- [orthofeet shoes](https://magichourblog.com/tag/orthofeet-shoes/)
- [comfortable shoes](https://magichourblog.com/tag/comfortable-shoes/)
- [film freelancers](https://magichourblog.com/tag/film-freelancers/)
- [achievable goals](https://magichourblog.com/tag/achievable-goals/)
- [mindfulness exercises](https://magichourblog.com/tag/mindfulness-exercises/)
- [mindfulness](https://magichourblog.com/tag/mindfulness/)
- [comfort zone](https://magichourblog.com/tag/comfort-zone/)
- [MasterClass](https://magichourblog.com/tag/masterclass/)
- [filmmaking education](https://magichourblog.com/tag/filmmaking-education/)
- [film union](https://magichourblog.com/tag/film-union/)
- [film industry union](https://magichourblog.com/tag/film-industry-union/)
- [freelance work](https://magichourblog.com/tag/freelance-work/)
- [set safety](https://magichourblog.com/tag/set-safety/)
- [spring cleaning tips](https://magichourblog.com/tag/spring-cleaning-tips/)
- [freelancing jobs](https://magichourblog.com/tag/freelancing-jobs/)
- [communication skills](https://magichourblog.com/tag/communication-skills/)
- [improve communication skills](https://magichourblog.com/tag/improve-communication-skills/)
- [freelance film production](https://magichourblog.com/tag/freelance-film-production/)
- [successful career](https://magichourblog.com/tag/successful-career/)
- [set must haves](https://magichourblog.com/tag/set-must-haves/)
- [film set essentials](https://magichourblog.com/tag/film-set-essentials/)
- [mentally healthy](https://magichourblog.com/tag/mentally-healthy/)
- [work as a freelancer](https://magichourblog.com/tag/work-as-a-freelancer/)
- [working in film production](https://magichourblog.com/tag/working-in-film-production/)
- [film unions](https://magichourblog.com/tag/film-unions/)
- [film production companies](https://magichourblog.com/tag/film-production-companies/)
- [film crew](https://magichourblog.com/tag/film-crew/)
- [low-budget movie](https://magichourblog.com/tag/low-budget-movie/)
- [IATSE locals](https://magichourblog.com/tag/iatse-locals/)
- [toxic workplace](https://magichourblog.com/tag/toxic-workplace/)
- [DGA](https://magichourblog.com/tag/dga/)
- [pair of shoes](https://magichourblog.com/tag/pair-of-shoes/)
- [foot problems](https://magichourblog.com/tag/foot-problems/)
- [best jobs for aspiring actors](https://magichourblog.com/tag/best-jobs-for-aspiring-actors/)
- [actors](https://magichourblog.com/tag/actors/)
- [acting career](https://magichourblog.com/tag/acting-career/)
- [side jobs](https://magichourblog.com/tag/side-jobs/)
- [voice actor](https://magichourblog.com/tag/voice-actor/)
- [successful actor](https://magichourblog.com/tag/successful-actor/)
- [stage actors](https://magichourblog.com/tag/stage-actors/)
- [film producer](https://magichourblog.com/tag/film-producer/)
- [film industry career](https://magichourblog.com/tag/film-industry-career/)
- [film producing](https://magichourblog.com/tag/film-producing/)
- [film production hierarchy](https://magichourblog.com/tag/film-production-hierarchy/)
- [personality types in the workplace](https://magichourblog.com/tag/personality-types-in-the-workplace/)
- [freelance pros and cons](https://magichourblog.com/tag/freelance-pros-and-cons/)
- [best books for creatives](https://magichourblog.com/tag/best-books-for-creatives/)
- [film industry creatives](https://magichourblog.com/tag/film-industry-creatives/)
- [acting classes](https://magichourblog.com/tag/acting-classes/)
- [types of acting classes](https://magichourblog.com/tag/types-of-acting-classes/)
- [deal with dramatic people](https://magichourblog.com/tag/deal-with-dramatic-people/)
- [artistic goals examples](https://magichourblog.com/tag/artistic-goals-examples/)
- [goal setting](https://magichourblog.com/tag/goal-setting/)
- [best filmmaking magazines](https://magichourblog.com/tag/best-filmmaking-magazines/)
- [filmmakers](https://magichourblog.com/tag/filmmakers/)
- [directors](https://magichourblog.com/tag/directors/)
- [relaxation techniques for workplace](https://magichourblog.com/tag/relaxation-techniques-for-workplace/)
- [sustainability on set](https://magichourblog.com/tag/sustainability-on-set/)
- [film studios](https://magichourblog.com/tag/film-studios/)
- [reduce paper use](https://magichourblog.com/tag/reduce-paper-use/)
- [recycling on set](https://magichourblog.com/tag/recycling-on-set/)
- [common workplace challenges](https://magichourblog.com/tag/common-workplace-challenges/)
- [filmmaking technology](https://magichourblog.com/tag/filmmaking-technology/)
- [virtual production](https://magichourblog.com/tag/virtual-production/)
- [writers strike](https://magichourblog.com/tag/writers-strike/)
- [actors strike](https://magichourblog.com/tag/actors-strike/)
- [freelancing books](https://magichourblog.com/tag/freelancing-books/)
- [best books for freelancers](https://magichourblog.com/tag/best-books-for-freelancers/)