2 answers
lavaris
Student
New Rochelle, New York
1
Question
2 answers
Michelle M.
Entertainment Industry
1880
Answers
Updated
Michelle’s Answer
Hello, Iavaris !
I am happy to share some advice with you on how you could be a successful film student. It's an exciting, enjoyable career that will take many shapes and the process should be very enriching and further your passion for filmmaking.
The best film tips will be coming from a combination of your professor's presentations and lectures and what you begin to recognize as your style and preferred technique. You will learn and discover this in film school. Focus on technique, style and story. For now before enrolling in film studies, there are some things that you can do now that will support the quality of your experience in college.
One thing that I suggest is to start now. Do videos which you can upload to platforms like You Tube, create your own channel. Do a tour video of your high school or your prospective film school. Write out a treatment (outline what you want to cover) and go for it ! Between now and then, think about short stories that you'd like to film for your collection. Also, learn about the equipment you'll be working with by doing a search online for all the various types of cameras and sound equipment.
Something that would greatly support this would also be to start networking with other people involved in film. Take frequent ventures into New York City and you're sure to discover many groups that you can enjoy. One of them is The Filmmaker's Co-Op in the East Village. I left the link for their website below. I also left a link to a list of other groups you should look into. A big part of the film industry is getting to know people and learning from them, sharing knowledge and keeping aware of projects that may be happening. Once you start college, the film department will be the best networking ground for you, but you can start before you go to college.
Start reading about all the different aspects of film and what each professional does on a set or for the film. Check out some books at your community library and search for articles online that will give you an overview and discuss the basics of filmmaking. Also watch as many videos on You Tube about filmmaking. I left a link for one below but there are many more on You Tube. It would be good to be familiar with it before college.
Most of all, take it step by step and understand that it is a process. Also understand that you very well may get professional opportunities while you are in college, but if not, you will establish a body of work, contacts and be well prepared for when you graduate. Your proximity to New York City is in your favor. Also, do not give up or let anyone discourage you - you can do it. Enjoy every step of the way. You'll be making some amazing discoveries in college studying film !
I hope that this is a help and I wish you all the best !
THE FILMMAKERS CO OP GROUP https://film-makerscoop.com/
FILM INDUSTRY NETWORKING IN NEW YORK CITY https://ny411.com/blog/post/film-industry-networking-groups-in-new-york
THE BASICS OF FILMMAKING ARTICLE AND VIDEO https://nofilmschool.com/2017/04/watch-how-teach-yourself-basics-filmmaking-30-days
PRACTICE CINEMATOGRAPHY ON YOUR OWN (VIDEO) https://youtu.be/yF7KB_8NYPc?si=lT4JFKg5LhbHTcrG
I am happy to share some advice with you on how you could be a successful film student. It's an exciting, enjoyable career that will take many shapes and the process should be very enriching and further your passion for filmmaking.
The best film tips will be coming from a combination of your professor's presentations and lectures and what you begin to recognize as your style and preferred technique. You will learn and discover this in film school. Focus on technique, style and story. For now before enrolling in film studies, there are some things that you can do now that will support the quality of your experience in college.
One thing that I suggest is to start now. Do videos which you can upload to platforms like You Tube, create your own channel. Do a tour video of your high school or your prospective film school. Write out a treatment (outline what you want to cover) and go for it ! Between now and then, think about short stories that you'd like to film for your collection. Also, learn about the equipment you'll be working with by doing a search online for all the various types of cameras and sound equipment.
Something that would greatly support this would also be to start networking with other people involved in film. Take frequent ventures into New York City and you're sure to discover many groups that you can enjoy. One of them is The Filmmaker's Co-Op in the East Village. I left the link for their website below. I also left a link to a list of other groups you should look into. A big part of the film industry is getting to know people and learning from them, sharing knowledge and keeping aware of projects that may be happening. Once you start college, the film department will be the best networking ground for you, but you can start before you go to college.
Start reading about all the different aspects of film and what each professional does on a set or for the film. Check out some books at your community library and search for articles online that will give you an overview and discuss the basics of filmmaking. Also watch as many videos on You Tube about filmmaking. I left a link for one below but there are many more on You Tube. It would be good to be familiar with it before college.
Most of all, take it step by step and understand that it is a process. Also understand that you very well may get professional opportunities while you are in college, but if not, you will establish a body of work, contacts and be well prepared for when you graduate. Your proximity to New York City is in your favor. Also, do not give up or let anyone discourage you - you can do it. Enjoy every step of the way. You'll be making some amazing discoveries in college studying film !
I hope that this is a help and I wish you all the best !
Michelle recommends the following next steps:
Lirio Delgado
201
Answers
Phoenix, Arizona
Updated
Lirio’s Answer
Filming in college can be an exciting opportunity to develop your skills and create impressive work. Whether you're working on a class project, a personal film, or a collaborative project, here are some tips to help you achieve the best results:
### **1. **Pre-Production Planning**
- **Script and Storyboarding**:
- **Develop a Clear Script**: Write a detailed script or outline for your film. Ensure it includes dialogue, scenes, and key actions.
- **Create Storyboards**: Visualize each scene through storyboards or shot lists to plan your camera angles, lighting, and composition.
- **Budgeting and Resources**:
- **Budget Wisely**: Determine your budget for the project, including costs for equipment, props, and any other expenses.
- **Utilize Campus Resources**: Take advantage of equipment and resources available through your college’s media or film department.
- **Casting and Crew**:
- **Assemble a Team**: Recruit talented individuals for roles such as actors, camera operators, and sound technicians. Consider collaborating with classmates or joining student film clubs.
### **2. **Production Techniques**
- **Camera Work**:
- **Understand Your Equipment**: Familiarize yourself with the camera equipment you’ll be using, including settings, lenses, and stabilization tools.
- **Use Proper Framing and Composition**: Follow the rule of thirds, use leading lines, and pay attention to background elements to create visually appealing shots.
- **Lighting**:
- **Utilize Natural and Artificial Lighting**: Make the most of natural light, but also use artificial lighting to enhance your scenes. Learn about key lighting, fill lighting, and backlighting.
- **Avoid Harsh Shadows**: Use diffusers or reflectors to soften harsh shadows and create a more balanced look.
- **Sound**:
- **Record Clear Audio**: Use external microphones and monitor audio levels to ensure clear sound quality. Pay attention to background noise and try to minimize it.
- **Consider Sound Design**: Add music, sound effects, and ambient sounds in post-production to enhance the overall audio experience.
### **3. **Post-Production**
- **Editing**:
- **Use Editing Software**: Familiarize yourself with editing software like Adobe Premiere Pro, Final Cut Pro, or DaVinci Resolve. Learn basic techniques such as cutting, transitions, and color correction.
- **Pace and Flow**: Ensure your film has a good rhythm and flow. Edit scenes to maintain tension, coherence, and emotional impact.
- **Color Grading**:
- **Enhance Visuals**: Use color grading to adjust the look and feel of your film. Create a consistent color scheme that matches the tone and mood of your story.
- **Feedback and Revisions**:
- **Seek Feedback**: Share your film with peers, professors, or mentors for constructive criticism. Be open to revising and improving based on their input.
### **4. **Distribution and Promotion**
- **Showcase Your Work**:
- **Film Festivals and Competitions**: Submit your film to student film festivals or competitions to gain exposure and experience.
- **Online Platforms**: Share your film on platforms like YouTube, Vimeo, or social media to reach a wider audience.
- **Networking**:
- **Connect with Industry Professionals**: Attend film-related events, workshops, and networking opportunities to meet industry professionals and potential collaborators.
- **Join Film Organizations**: Participate in student film organizations or clubs to connect with other filmmakers and expand your network.
### **5. **Additional Tips**
- **Experiment and Learn**:
- **Try New Techniques**: Experiment with different filming techniques, styles, and genres to broaden your skills and creativity.
- **Learn Continuously**: Stay updated on the latest trends and technologies in filmmaking. Take advantage of online tutorials, workshops, and courses to continue learning.
- **Collaborate and Build Relationships**:
- **Work with Others**: Collaborate with fellow students, faculty, and local filmmakers to gain diverse perspectives and enhance your projects.
- **Build a Portfolio**: Document your work and create a portfolio to showcase your skills and attract potential opportunities.
By focusing on these aspects of pre-production, production, post-production, and distribution, you can maximize the quality of your films and make the most of your college filmmaking experience.
### **1. **Pre-Production Planning**
- **Script and Storyboarding**:
- **Develop a Clear Script**: Write a detailed script or outline for your film. Ensure it includes dialogue, scenes, and key actions.
- **Create Storyboards**: Visualize each scene through storyboards or shot lists to plan your camera angles, lighting, and composition.
- **Budgeting and Resources**:
- **Budget Wisely**: Determine your budget for the project, including costs for equipment, props, and any other expenses.
- **Utilize Campus Resources**: Take advantage of equipment and resources available through your college’s media or film department.
- **Casting and Crew**:
- **Assemble a Team**: Recruit talented individuals for roles such as actors, camera operators, and sound technicians. Consider collaborating with classmates or joining student film clubs.
### **2. **Production Techniques**
- **Camera Work**:
- **Understand Your Equipment**: Familiarize yourself with the camera equipment you’ll be using, including settings, lenses, and stabilization tools.
- **Use Proper Framing and Composition**: Follow the rule of thirds, use leading lines, and pay attention to background elements to create visually appealing shots.
- **Lighting**:
- **Utilize Natural and Artificial Lighting**: Make the most of natural light, but also use artificial lighting to enhance your scenes. Learn about key lighting, fill lighting, and backlighting.
- **Avoid Harsh Shadows**: Use diffusers or reflectors to soften harsh shadows and create a more balanced look.
- **Sound**:
- **Record Clear Audio**: Use external microphones and monitor audio levels to ensure clear sound quality. Pay attention to background noise and try to minimize it.
- **Consider Sound Design**: Add music, sound effects, and ambient sounds in post-production to enhance the overall audio experience.
### **3. **Post-Production**
- **Editing**:
- **Use Editing Software**: Familiarize yourself with editing software like Adobe Premiere Pro, Final Cut Pro, or DaVinci Resolve. Learn basic techniques such as cutting, transitions, and color correction.
- **Pace and Flow**: Ensure your film has a good rhythm and flow. Edit scenes to maintain tension, coherence, and emotional impact.
- **Color Grading**:
- **Enhance Visuals**: Use color grading to adjust the look and feel of your film. Create a consistent color scheme that matches the tone and mood of your story.
- **Feedback and Revisions**:
- **Seek Feedback**: Share your film with peers, professors, or mentors for constructive criticism. Be open to revising and improving based on their input.
### **4. **Distribution and Promotion**
- **Showcase Your Work**:
- **Film Festivals and Competitions**: Submit your film to student film festivals or competitions to gain exposure and experience.
- **Online Platforms**: Share your film on platforms like YouTube, Vimeo, or social media to reach a wider audience.
- **Networking**:
- **Connect with Industry Professionals**: Attend film-related events, workshops, and networking opportunities to meet industry professionals and potential collaborators.
- **Join Film Organizations**: Participate in student film organizations or clubs to connect with other filmmakers and expand your network.
### **5. **Additional Tips**
- **Experiment and Learn**:
- **Try New Techniques**: Experiment with different filming techniques, styles, and genres to broaden your skills and creativity.
- **Learn Continuously**: Stay updated on the latest trends and technologies in filmmaking. Take advantage of online tutorials, workshops, and courses to continue learning.
- **Collaborate and Build Relationships**:
- **Work with Others**: Collaborate with fellow students, faculty, and local filmmakers to gain diverse perspectives and enhance your projects.
- **Build a Portfolio**: Document your work and create a portfolio to showcase your skills and attract potential opportunities.
By focusing on these aspects of pre-production, production, post-production, and distribution, you can maximize the quality of your films and make the most of your college filmmaking experience.