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What are some skills film majors should know beforehand?
I'm a 11th grader located in San Francisco.
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6 answers
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Rafael’s Answer
Hi Alyssa,
It's fantastic that you're thinking ahead about the skills you'll need for a film major. From what I've seen from the film industry as a consumer. Key skills to develop include storytelling, as it's the backbone of any film, so practice writing scripts or short stories to hone your narrative abilities. Plus, familiarize yourself with filmmaking equipment like cameras, lighting, and sound gear, and learn editing software such as Adobe Premiere Pro or similar ones. Start watching films critically to understand different techniques, styles, and genres, which will help you develop a keen eye for what works. Try to experiment with different ideas and visual styles by creating your own short films or video projects to refine your artistic vision. Living in San Francisco, you have access to local resources like film festivals and workshops that can provide insight into the film community. If you can, plan a trip to LA and Hollywood—having previously lived there, I know it's a film industry hub with many tours and schools dedicated to film majors. Exploring both cities could enrich your understanding of the industry and help you make informed decisions about your future studies and career. Good luck, and enjoy the journey!
It's fantastic that you're thinking ahead about the skills you'll need for a film major. From what I've seen from the film industry as a consumer. Key skills to develop include storytelling, as it's the backbone of any film, so practice writing scripts or short stories to hone your narrative abilities. Plus, familiarize yourself with filmmaking equipment like cameras, lighting, and sound gear, and learn editing software such as Adobe Premiere Pro or similar ones. Start watching films critically to understand different techniques, styles, and genres, which will help you develop a keen eye for what works. Try to experiment with different ideas and visual styles by creating your own short films or video projects to refine your artistic vision. Living in San Francisco, you have access to local resources like film festivals and workshops that can provide insight into the film community. If you can, plan a trip to LA and Hollywood—having previously lived there, I know it's a film industry hub with many tours and schools dedicated to film majors. Exploring both cities could enrich your understanding of the industry and help you make informed decisions about your future studies and career. Good luck, and enjoy the journey!
Thank you for the advice, Rafael.
alyssa
Updated
David’s Answer
Hi Alyssa!
Wow, you’re already thinking ahead about your future as a film major—that’s so exciting! San Francisco is such a vibrant city for creativity, and being in the Bay Area gives you access to incredible resources, inspiration, and opportunities. Film is such a dynamic field, and whether you’re dreaming of directing, producing, editing, or anything in between, there are skills you can start developing now that will give you a huge head start. Let’s dive into some practical advice tailored just for you.
1. Master the Basics of Storytelling
At its core, filmmaking is all about telling stories that connect with people. Start honing this skill early—it’s foundational for every aspect of film:
Write Short Stories or Scripts: Practice crafting compelling narratives. Focus on structure (beginning, middle, end), character development, and dialogue. Tools like Celtx or Final Draft are great for formatting scripts if you want to try screenwriting.
Analyze Movies You Love: Watch films critically—pay attention to how directors use shots, lighting, music, and pacing to evoke emotions. Ask yourself: What makes this scene work? How does it make me feel?
Pro Tip: Keep a journal where you jot down ideas for scenes, characters, or even entire films. Inspiration strikes at the most random moments!
2. Get Comfortable with Technology
Filmmaking is as much about tech as it is about creativity. Start experimenting with tools and software that filmmakers rely on:
Smartphone Filmmaking: You don’t need fancy equipment to start. Your phone can shoot amazing footage! Learn basic camera techniques like framing, angles, and movement. Apps like Filmic Pro can help elevate your smartphone cinematography.
Editing Software: Familiarize yourself with beginner-friendly programs like iMovie (Mac) or DaVinci Resolve (free and powerful). Editing teaches you how to piece together a story visually—it’s a game-changer.
Sound Design: Good audio is just as important as visuals. Play around with free sound libraries (like Freesound.org) or apps to layer music and effects into your projects.
3. Build Visual & Creative Skills
Film isn’t just technical—it’s an art form. Strengthen your creative muscles by exploring related disciplines:
Photography: Learning composition, lighting, and color theory through photography translates directly to cinematography. Take photos around SF—you live in one of the most photogenic cities in the world!
Drawing/Storyboarding: Even rough sketches can help plan out scenes before filming. It’s a skill many directors use to communicate their vision.
Graphic Design: Tools like Canva or Adobe Photoshop can help you create posters, logos, or social media content for your films. Plus, graphic design knowledge comes in handy for marketing your work later.
4. Collaborate & Network Early
Filmmaking is inherently collaborative—you’ll rarely work alone. Start building teamwork and networking skills now:
Join Clubs or Classes: Look for local film clubs, workshops, or classes in SF. Organizations like BAVC (Bay Area Video Coalition) offer youth programs specifically for aspiring filmmakers.
Team Up with Peers: Find other students who share your passion. Work together on small projects—it’s a great way to learn how different roles (director, editor, sound designer) contribute to the final product.
Attend Festivals & Events: SF has tons of film festivals (like SF IndieFest or SF Green Film Festival). Attending these exposes you to new styles, connects you with creators, and shows you what’s possible in the industry.
5. Develop Soft Skills That Matter
Beyond the technical stuff, soft skills are crucial for success in film:
Communication: Whether you’re pitching an idea, giving feedback, or leading a team, clear communication is key. Practice articulating your thoughts confidently.
Problem-Solving: Things rarely go perfectly on set. Learn to adapt quickly and think creatively when challenges arise.
Time Management: Juggling multiple tasks (filming, editing, meeting deadlines) requires discipline. Use tools like Trello or Notion to stay organized.
6. Explore Different Aspects of Film
Right now, you might not know exactly which area of filmmaking excites you most—and that’s okay! Experiment with different roles to discover what clicks:
Directing: If you love guiding the overall vision, try organizing mini-projects with friends.
Producing: This involves planning budgets, schedules, and logistics. Coordinate a group project to see if this appeals to you.
Editing: Dive into post-production to understand how raw footage becomes polished stories.
Sound/Music: If you’re musically inclined, explore scoring or sound mixing—it’s a niche but highly valuable skill.
7. Stay Curious & Consistent
The best filmmakers are lifelong learners. Keep feeding your curiosity:
Watch Diverse Films: Explore genres, cultures, and eras outside your comfort zone. Documentaries, foreign films, and experimental shorts can teach you new storytelling approaches.
Read About Film Theory: Books like "Save the Cat!" by Blake Snyder or "In the Blink of an Eye" by Walter Murch break down storytelling and editing concepts in accessible ways.
Create Regularly: Set small goals, like making a 1-minute video every week. Consistency builds confidence and improves your craft over time.
Alyssa, you’re starting this journey at the perfect time—with high school ahead of you, you’ve got years to experiment, grow, and refine your skills. The fact that you’re asking these questions shows how passionate and proactive you are. Every step you take now—whether it’s writing a script, shooting a short film, or networking with fellow creatives—brings you closer to your dreams.
And hey, living in San Francisco means you’re surrounded by endless inspiration. Channel that energy into your work, stay curious, and trust the process. You’ve got so much potential, and I can’t wait to see where your creativity takes you.
Let me know how it goes.
Wow, you’re already thinking ahead about your future as a film major—that’s so exciting! San Francisco is such a vibrant city for creativity, and being in the Bay Area gives you access to incredible resources, inspiration, and opportunities. Film is such a dynamic field, and whether you’re dreaming of directing, producing, editing, or anything in between, there are skills you can start developing now that will give you a huge head start. Let’s dive into some practical advice tailored just for you.
1. Master the Basics of Storytelling
At its core, filmmaking is all about telling stories that connect with people. Start honing this skill early—it’s foundational for every aspect of film:
Write Short Stories or Scripts: Practice crafting compelling narratives. Focus on structure (beginning, middle, end), character development, and dialogue. Tools like Celtx or Final Draft are great for formatting scripts if you want to try screenwriting.
Analyze Movies You Love: Watch films critically—pay attention to how directors use shots, lighting, music, and pacing to evoke emotions. Ask yourself: What makes this scene work? How does it make me feel?
Pro Tip: Keep a journal where you jot down ideas for scenes, characters, or even entire films. Inspiration strikes at the most random moments!
2. Get Comfortable with Technology
Filmmaking is as much about tech as it is about creativity. Start experimenting with tools and software that filmmakers rely on:
Smartphone Filmmaking: You don’t need fancy equipment to start. Your phone can shoot amazing footage! Learn basic camera techniques like framing, angles, and movement. Apps like Filmic Pro can help elevate your smartphone cinematography.
Editing Software: Familiarize yourself with beginner-friendly programs like iMovie (Mac) or DaVinci Resolve (free and powerful). Editing teaches you how to piece together a story visually—it’s a game-changer.
Sound Design: Good audio is just as important as visuals. Play around with free sound libraries (like Freesound.org) or apps to layer music and effects into your projects.
3. Build Visual & Creative Skills
Film isn’t just technical—it’s an art form. Strengthen your creative muscles by exploring related disciplines:
Photography: Learning composition, lighting, and color theory through photography translates directly to cinematography. Take photos around SF—you live in one of the most photogenic cities in the world!
Drawing/Storyboarding: Even rough sketches can help plan out scenes before filming. It’s a skill many directors use to communicate their vision.
Graphic Design: Tools like Canva or Adobe Photoshop can help you create posters, logos, or social media content for your films. Plus, graphic design knowledge comes in handy for marketing your work later.
4. Collaborate & Network Early
Filmmaking is inherently collaborative—you’ll rarely work alone. Start building teamwork and networking skills now:
Join Clubs or Classes: Look for local film clubs, workshops, or classes in SF. Organizations like BAVC (Bay Area Video Coalition) offer youth programs specifically for aspiring filmmakers.
Team Up with Peers: Find other students who share your passion. Work together on small projects—it’s a great way to learn how different roles (director, editor, sound designer) contribute to the final product.
Attend Festivals & Events: SF has tons of film festivals (like SF IndieFest or SF Green Film Festival). Attending these exposes you to new styles, connects you with creators, and shows you what’s possible in the industry.
5. Develop Soft Skills That Matter
Beyond the technical stuff, soft skills are crucial for success in film:
Communication: Whether you’re pitching an idea, giving feedback, or leading a team, clear communication is key. Practice articulating your thoughts confidently.
Problem-Solving: Things rarely go perfectly on set. Learn to adapt quickly and think creatively when challenges arise.
Time Management: Juggling multiple tasks (filming, editing, meeting deadlines) requires discipline. Use tools like Trello or Notion to stay organized.
6. Explore Different Aspects of Film
Right now, you might not know exactly which area of filmmaking excites you most—and that’s okay! Experiment with different roles to discover what clicks:
Directing: If you love guiding the overall vision, try organizing mini-projects with friends.
Producing: This involves planning budgets, schedules, and logistics. Coordinate a group project to see if this appeals to you.
Editing: Dive into post-production to understand how raw footage becomes polished stories.
Sound/Music: If you’re musically inclined, explore scoring or sound mixing—it’s a niche but highly valuable skill.
7. Stay Curious & Consistent
The best filmmakers are lifelong learners. Keep feeding your curiosity:
Watch Diverse Films: Explore genres, cultures, and eras outside your comfort zone. Documentaries, foreign films, and experimental shorts can teach you new storytelling approaches.
Read About Film Theory: Books like "Save the Cat!" by Blake Snyder or "In the Blink of an Eye" by Walter Murch break down storytelling and editing concepts in accessible ways.
Create Regularly: Set small goals, like making a 1-minute video every week. Consistency builds confidence and improves your craft over time.
Alyssa, you’re starting this journey at the perfect time—with high school ahead of you, you’ve got years to experiment, grow, and refine your skills. The fact that you’re asking these questions shows how passionate and proactive you are. Every step you take now—whether it’s writing a script, shooting a short film, or networking with fellow creatives—brings you closer to your dreams.
And hey, living in San Francisco means you’re surrounded by endless inspiration. Channel that energy into your work, stay curious, and trust the process. You’ve got so much potential, and I can’t wait to see where your creativity takes you.
Let me know how it goes.
Steve Jacobson
Creative Leader/Content Creator/Producer/Editor/Storyteller
57
Answers
Updated
Steve’s Answer
It all boils down to what you want to do in filmmaking. Do you want to write, direct, edit, produce, or work as an art director, set designer, costume designer, or makeup artist? There are many choices. Teach yourself about storytelling. What makes a story good? What makes characters interesting? How do you want to connect with the audience? What do you want them to take away? These are important questions to consider. Don't feel overwhelmed. Tackle each thing one step at a time. Find creative people to work with. It's even better if they think differently than you.
Also, start networking early. Meet professionals you can talk to, learn from, and who can mentor you. And don’t forget to get an education. Become a student of people. Watch, learn, and grow.
Good luck.
Also, start networking early. Meet professionals you can talk to, learn from, and who can mentor you. And don’t forget to get an education. Become a student of people. Watch, learn, and grow.
Good luck.
Updated
Michelle’s Answer
Hello, Alyssa !
If you're not making films now, I wouldn't worry about it because you are going to learn everything about filmmaking in Film School. That being said, there are some things you can learn, practice and hone while still in high school. If you are able to start making short films or videos now, that would be great hands on technical experience.
One of the things you will want to bring to Film School is your knowledge of many variety of films, old and new. Also your ability to talk about film analytically and recognize devices such as symbolism and others. I say this because in a lecture or for a project, your professors will refer to a certain film or even a film director to illustrate a style or mode and it would be helpful if you understood it. It's okay if you don't but better if you know a great variety of film. Become familiar with IMAX format, too.
For instance, your professor may say something about "Taxi Driver" to illustrate a particular element or there may be a reference to the work of directors such as Billy Wilder or Ron Howard. Make it a point to see new films as well as the most popular films from each decade. Think about how what had happened in history was incorporated into the films that are set in different time periods. Also watch and become familiar with foreign films, too. So basically, a familiarity with director styles, actual films and looking at them with an analytical eye will allow you to participate in discussions and ask questions while in Film School. It will also serve as inspiration and professional and artistic development as a filmmaker.
If you feel ready to get some reels under your belt before Film School, research online and purchase some equipment and start. There is a video camera that actually does video that has the quality of film. It's fine to start with video because film equipment can be expensive and you will build up to that later on.
There's so much more but I think you will be fine in Film School taking it a step at a time for now and keep moving forward. You can do this !
If you're not making films now, I wouldn't worry about it because you are going to learn everything about filmmaking in Film School. That being said, there are some things you can learn, practice and hone while still in high school. If you are able to start making short films or videos now, that would be great hands on technical experience.
One of the things you will want to bring to Film School is your knowledge of many variety of films, old and new. Also your ability to talk about film analytically and recognize devices such as symbolism and others. I say this because in a lecture or for a project, your professors will refer to a certain film or even a film director to illustrate a style or mode and it would be helpful if you understood it. It's okay if you don't but better if you know a great variety of film. Become familiar with IMAX format, too.
For instance, your professor may say something about "Taxi Driver" to illustrate a particular element or there may be a reference to the work of directors such as Billy Wilder or Ron Howard. Make it a point to see new films as well as the most popular films from each decade. Think about how what had happened in history was incorporated into the films that are set in different time periods. Also watch and become familiar with foreign films, too. So basically, a familiarity with director styles, actual films and looking at them with an analytical eye will allow you to participate in discussions and ask questions while in Film School. It will also serve as inspiration and professional and artistic development as a filmmaker.
If you feel ready to get some reels under your belt before Film School, research online and purchase some equipment and start. There is a video camera that actually does video that has the quality of film. It's fine to start with video because film equipment can be expensive and you will build up to that later on.
There's so much more but I think you will be fine in Film School taking it a step at a time for now and keep moving forward. You can do this !
Thank you, Michelle for the advice.
alyssa
You are very welcome, Alyssa !
Michelle M.
Updated
Yingna’s Answer
1. Take good photos. Practice with your cell-phone
2. Observe life, observe people. How do people behave, what do they talk about?
3. Love life.
That's pretty much it, I believe.
Good luck :)
2. Observe life, observe people. How do people behave, what do they talk about?
3. Love life.
That's pretty much it, I believe.
Good luck :)
Thank you so much, Yingna!
alyssa
Updated
Patrick’s Answer
Hi, Alyssa! Great answers here already. I'll give it a go. Skills, hm? To know beforehand? You're already pretty young so you're still learning everything about everything, but I think you mean like before you begin the school and then the work, yeah? Okay.
1. Get with that iphone, take pics and vids. Try to find THE STORY in these shots. Same idea in a clip. I saw a bunch of wind chimes for sale on the sidewalk. It was super windy. I shot a clip in slomo of the wind chimes. When played back in slomo, it was a different kind of story; the chimes sounded like giant, deep GONGS instead of tinkly bells or chimes. That kind of thing. Or maybe it's a photo of a flower. Just one flower, but it's growing out of the middle of a big, cold and empty parking lot. Now it's not just a flower, it's also a survivor in this cold, empty place, right!? Find the story. In images. In clips.
2. Watch movies, study them. Thrillers, action, drama. Asian cinema. Gangsta movies. Sports movies. All of them. Then, when one type speaks to you or becomes your favorite type of film, go all in. Study and analyze the heck out of those. Find out why it connects with you, then figure out how you're gonna connect with people through your stories.
3. Get a sense of the biz. You're never too young for that. And it is called SHOW BUSINESS. There's show. And then there's business. Find something that interests you about how films are financed, made and distributed. What's the difference between studios and streamers? What are low budget movies getting made, who makes them, and what are they about? Budgets and profits. Typically, if a movie costs 5 dollars, then it needs to make 15 dollars to start making "a profit". Learn why that is. You don't have to know everything, but as a skill, having a general sense of the business side will help prepare you.
So. These are kinda "skills" but more like general prep work to begin that will turn into hard skills forever. Good luck, Alyssa!
Best,
Patrick
1. Get with that iphone, take pics and vids. Try to find THE STORY in these shots. Same idea in a clip. I saw a bunch of wind chimes for sale on the sidewalk. It was super windy. I shot a clip in slomo of the wind chimes. When played back in slomo, it was a different kind of story; the chimes sounded like giant, deep GONGS instead of tinkly bells or chimes. That kind of thing. Or maybe it's a photo of a flower. Just one flower, but it's growing out of the middle of a big, cold and empty parking lot. Now it's not just a flower, it's also a survivor in this cold, empty place, right!? Find the story. In images. In clips.
2. Watch movies, study them. Thrillers, action, drama. Asian cinema. Gangsta movies. Sports movies. All of them. Then, when one type speaks to you or becomes your favorite type of film, go all in. Study and analyze the heck out of those. Find out why it connects with you, then figure out how you're gonna connect with people through your stories.
3. Get a sense of the biz. You're never too young for that. And it is called SHOW BUSINESS. There's show. And then there's business. Find something that interests you about how films are financed, made and distributed. What's the difference between studios and streamers? What are low budget movies getting made, who makes them, and what are they about? Budgets and profits. Typically, if a movie costs 5 dollars, then it needs to make 15 dollars to start making "a profit". Learn why that is. You don't have to know everything, but as a skill, having a general sense of the business side will help prepare you.
So. These are kinda "skills" but more like general prep work to begin that will turn into hard skills forever. Good luck, Alyssa!
Best,
Patrick
Thank you, this is amazing! I really needed it.
alyssa