If you write television, you have to be in Los Angeles. However, there's a lot more flexibility in features.
That said, it's exponentially tougher. Most people who write from a distance are already established. If you're not, you need to have a portfolio of really amazing specs that are commercial and ready to go out. Trouble is, far less specs are being purchased than in the past--selling one is really hard.
Part of the advantage of being in LA is networking, and the ability to go in for general meetings as well as pitches. That's how writers get rewrite work, adaptations, etc.--you go in and pitch your take--and that is MOST of the job market in features these days.
This business is all about WHO KNOWS YOU. Especially when you're an unknown writer--taking meetings is a big part of starting out. If you're really serious about this career--you should really consider making the commitment and moving to LA.
That said, it's exponentially tougher. Most people who write from a distance are already established. If you're not, you need to have a portfolio of really amazing specs that are commercial and ready to go out. Trouble is, far less specs are being purchased than in the past--selling one is really hard.
Part of the advantage of being in LA is networking, and the ability to go in for general meetings as well as pitches. That's how writers get rewrite work, adaptations, etc.--you go in and pitch your take--and that is MOST of the job market in features these days.
This business is all about WHO KNOWS YOU. Especially when you're an unknown writer--taking meetings is a big part of starting out. If you're really serious about this career--you should really consider making the commitment and moving to LA.