Do I need a resume?

Short answer: Yes.

You may have built an impressive body of work, and many people may already know your name. But I’ve seen it countless times: a well-known operator or technician is completely unknown to a new LP, EP, or department head simply because that person was in a different role two years ago. Relationships shift. Projects move. Teams change.

Hollywood may feel like a small world, but it’s much larger than people think. There’s constant movement among producers, line producers, and department heads. People are promoted, shift roles, or move into new circles for a variety of reasons. As of 2025, IATSE membership alone is estimated at approximately 10,000 members and that’s just one union organization.

A well-crafted resume bridges that gap. It should clearly communicate:

• What you’ve accomplished

• Who you’ve worked with

• The level of your contribution (run of show, 2nd unit, stunt unit, day-play, etc.)

• Which platforms carried the projects

• When to include or omit awards, recognitions, and references

Your resume is not just a list; it’s a professional snapshot of your career. When done properly, it answers questions before they’re asked. It also reflects how you approach execution. The formatting, clarity, and structure show your attention to detail and how you present yourself when you’re not in the room to speak on your own behalf. In many cases, your resume is doing the talking for you.

If you’d like to discuss how to strengthen your resume as a steadicam, camera, cinematographer, or anyone the film industry feel free to reach out to RTA.