I recently picked up a Rode NTG2, blimp, deadcat, boom and Tascam DR-40. I'm looking to gain experience working on indie films. What are the best ways to gain experience? I'm already offering to volunteer on gigs, but I figure there should be another way, besides spending money on classes.
Thoughts?
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Check out mandy.com if you haven't already. It's a good resource for indie crews and producers to connect. It'll also give you an idea of going rates and the range you should be asking.
Also a good resource for finding what's shooting around your area are the casting notices people put up on places like backstage.com. Then you can contact the producers or UPMs yourself and offer your services as a sound person.
As a boom op, hooking up with an experienced mixer is a great way to learn the trade while getting paid. One trick is to call up local companies that make commercials in your area, tell them you're making a short and looking for a mixer and ask for any recommendations of people they've worked with. Then send those mixers your resume as a boom operator. Tricky, but hey, you gotta do what you gotta do to get hired in this business.
Good luck!
Great ideas. Thanks!