How to Make a Demo Reel
People ask me all the time about that one little super-important thing that every production or post-production person should have, and since I’m not one to turn people away when they’re curious about the world’s best profession – ahem – I wanted to address the basics of the demo reel. Seriously, though, this is for you because I love talking to people about the process. Even if you already have a reel, I’ll discuss different tips and tricks to take your reel to the next level. So keep your eyes peeled and your Avids primed, here’s how to create a killer reel. What is a demo reel? A demo reel, reel, sizzle reel, show reel, or whatever else you’d like to call it, is essentially a moving portfolio of your film/video/graphics/animation work. Traditional artists and painters are expected to have a portfolio, and digital artists and filmmakers are no different. Your demo reel is your personal commercial for the work you’ve done. In short, it’s a trailer for about you. Employers, production companies, agents, and other parties interested in using your services often ask to see what you can do. This is your chance to show them. A reel should not be confused for a portfolio, which is different. A portfolio is a collection of many pieces of work you've created. A demo reel is one piece of work composed of the best bits from all of your projects. Why do you need a reel? You need a demo reel because no one believes you when you say “I’m a really good filmmaker/editor/animator/whatever”. Rule numero uno about the production world is, “show don’t tell”, and that’s exactly what a demo reel should do. In order to show future employers, clients, or jealous friends how good you are at your particular skill (directing, producing, editing, graphic design, animation, even acting), you need a reel that displays your work. Many employers won’t even consider candidates without a reel of some kind, and consider it just as important – if not moreso – than your resume. How do you make one? There are millions of ways to imagine and compose a demo reel....