Well, not quite, Jeff. But, yes, after a while of working for shit pay for various people, it did feel like I was getting royally fucked up the ass. But, in the end, I can't complain, because it all seemed to work out for me.

To answer your question, Cleet, I was very lucky. It came down to being at the right place at the right time. I met Rodney at Erotica LA, we chatted a bit, and as fate had it, he had just parted ways with his camera chick a few weeks prior. I told him I was a big porn fan, wanted to get involved somehow, and he said he'd give me a shot. The rest, however, was not so easy. I spent the next months, essentially being a grunt, picking shit up from places, driving him around to shoots, etc. I have to say it sucked, but, he was willing to give me more responsibilities as I progressed (and of course more pay). He taught me how to update websites, shoot stills, shoot camera, and most importantly, I learned how to edit on both Media 100 and Final Cut Pro. I guess in the end, I should have paid him for all that I learned. But, I was a very hard worker, and he got a lot out of me. (And, no, I never fucked him, or blew him).

This industry is small, and eventually, word gets around that you are reliable, and have something useful to offer. Knowing people who know other people also works in your favor. I doubt I ever would have had my directing gig at Elegant Angel if it wasn't for getting hooked up with those in the know. But, it is what you produce that sustains you.

I'm bored hearing myself type. I hope that helped.