Today we’d like to introduce you to Salma Amer.
Salma, can you briefly walk us through your story – how you started and how you got to where you are today.
As far back as I can remember, I had always had an interest in Film. I studied media management while still living in Egypt and after moving to New York I continued my education in filmmaking And obtained my BFA degree from the New York Film Academy, while working various positions within the industry to gain hands-on experience and knowledge. I worked as an assistant director, director, script supervisor and basically any position I could obtain in the art department. In a short span of time, I built the confidence to take a shot at directing my own films. While still in school, I directed a total of nine short films and assisted on 25 other movies for my classmates. This allowed me to network and build relationships with my peers in the industry. After graduation, I continued to build my resume on short films and eventually worked my way up to feature films, documentaries, and even music videos to broaden my horizons.
We’re always bombarded by how great it is to pursue your passion, etc – but we’ve spoken with enough people to know that it’s not always easy. Overall, would you say things have been easy for you?
It definitely was not a smooth ride in the slightest. There were many obstacles to overcome along the way. I’m well aware that there are many people who dream about being in the film industry and do what I do but sadly not everyone manages to achieve that goal. I feel truly blessed knowing I’ve achieved what I set out to do and being given the opportunity to do what I love. I had to struggle with long hours without rest, working pro bono to build experience, and even take on assignments out of my comfort zone because I knew it was necessary to achieve my end game, which was to be a director. Also, the fact that when you are not working as a director while coming up through the ranks, people tend to only see you as what position you are working as on that particular day, never noticing where your true talent lies.
What else should our readers know?
I work as a Freelance Director, Assitant Director, Script Supervisor and any position in the Art Department.
What were you like growing up?
I always thought I was a pretty decent child growing up but I’m sure my parents would tell you otherwise. I always had a talent for getting what I want through a mix of cleverness and charm. I was very energetic and hyperactive as a child so I eventually decided to channel all that untapped energy through gymnastics. My interest in the film industry first manifested through days of role-playing scenes from movies I loved which eventually turned into a desire to want to make my own someday.
Contact Info:
- Phone: 909-729-6952
- Email: [email protected]
- Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/salmaasshraf/
- Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/salma.ashraf.7545
- Other: https://www.imdb.com/name/nm8632499/?ref_=nv_sr_1
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