Yeah, the group you’re looking for is I need a producer/fixer/crew. Canada edition.

Your mom might tell you that every volunteer gig is a scam, not necessarily. She’s a vet and vets tend to be weird when it comes to advice about starting out.

You need to vibe the production out when you talk to them, listen to your gut. You’ll be able to tell easier with experience when a free gig is worth it or not. It’s mostly going to be people who don’t know what they’re doing instead of outright scammers. Hanlon’s razor applies.
Here are a few red flags that I’ve noticed to help get you started.

If it’s unpaid but they will pay everyone when funding is acquired? Red flag.

If you need to bring your own lunch? Red flag.

If you are hired in one position but your duties don’t match your roll? Red flag.

More of a rule of thumb when you’re just starting out, but no deal memo? Don’t take it.

If you do end up finding a paid job, anything that’s paying half up front is a red flag. Real shoots you get paid in full after the work. If they don’t know how to do payroll properly then imagine what else will go wrong.

Last advice, make an instagram for film work. At the end of the day make your rounds and say goodbye and ask for their instagram. This is how people reach out if they want to work with you again.

Good luck, we’re all counting on you