Shooting your shot: with a DM

Shooting Your Shot in the Film and Creative Industry: How a DM Can Change Your Career

Breaking into the film and creative industries can feel daunting. Whether you're an aspiring filmmaker, musician, or writer, the competition is tough, and opportunities can seem inaccessible. But one important lesson is that often, the biggest opportunities come from simply reaching out. Case in point: Grammy-nominated UK artist and songwriter Kamille, who’s proven that sometimes, the path to success starts with a bold DM.

Kamille: The Power of a DM

Kamille, an immensely talented artist known for her work with stars like Little Mix, Mabel, and Jess Glynne, made waves with her music and her proactive approach to building her career. Despite her obvious talent, she didn’t wait for opportunities to find her. Instead, she sometimes took matters into her own hands by contacting people on Instagram directly. In her words, a simple message to a producer, songwriter or even an artist could open doors she didn’t even know existed. This boldness is one of the reasons Kamille has worked on some of the UK's biggest hits.

Kamille connected with key industry players who saw her talent and passion. These initial contacts eventually snowballed into collaborations, networking opportunities, and ultimately, a multi-Grammy winner and more. Her story highlights the impact of direct outreach in creative fields, where genuine connections are invaluable. Kamille’s success is a testament to the power of “shooting your shot” and demonstrates how one message can truly transform a career.

Why Shooting Your Shot Matters in Creative Industries

The creative industry—be it music, film, or art—is a relationship-driven field. Success isn’t just about talent; it’s also about who you know and the relationships you build. While social media has its downsides, it has levelled the playing field in many ways, giving new talent access to established professionals and industry influencers that would have been nearly impossible to reach in the past.

Shooting your shot is about breaking down that invisible barrier. When you send a message to a person you admire or hope to collaborate with, you’re not only demonstrating your passion but also showing your willingness to take risks. Even if you don’t get a response, putting yourself out there can be a learning experience that builds your confidence and resilience.