How can you choose the best videography course for your film production needs?

Just ask yourself are you a beginner looking for a basic course to learn videography or are you seeking to enhance certain skills in a specific area like cinematography or editing.

A more general course would be a business course where you learn about budgeting and the legal side of production. It's easier to manage contracts for any position, whether it's someone else's or your own, if you know how to put value on your work. For more specific courses, look into what interests you and what correlates with your work ethic and goals. Not everything is for everybody, but there's always something for somebody when it comes to film production.

Ask yourself these questions: What do I want to learn? Why do I want to learn? Do you think this particular skill will help me achieve my goals? If you want to improve your knowledge in cinematography, find courses tailored to your skill level and objectives.

Before filming, consider your budget, desired content and audience, and where you plan to show the film, animation and reels.

You should ask about practical course because videography can not be learnt without practicing on a shoot. You will gain experience and you will start to build your network. Some schools also have equipment that you can use for your personal project which is a huge advantage

This is very important when picking a course. Often times, I have found myself looking into “intermediate” or “advanced” courses just to find that I am a few steps ahead of that curriculum. Although refreshers can be great at shaking some rust off, be aware of how it all fits into your schedule and budget.

It’s about fit. Know your long-term goals, stylistic approach, niche and budget. Know regional filmic traditions, legacy and culture in public policy. This may determine the quality and impact of your education. Check application and diploma requirements to get a better understanding of whether specific courses are challenging, within reach, or underwhelming.

If you can you should consider off line courses - the most important thing you will learn is not technical skills but meeting people to work with. If you have a busy schedule you should look at short sessions focus on a very precise skill

Not to forget, do some research on the instructor's credentials so that he/she can deliver the desired courses that you are looking for. You may look for their successful videography projects.

Keep in mind what your desired format is. There are many talented artists who shine in one medium but maybe not so much in another medium. Find artists that shine in the medium you want to work in, and study their work.

It is important to determine whether you prefer self-paced learning or structured classroom instruction. Online courses offer flexibility, while in-person classes provide hands-on experience and immediate feedback from instructors.

For this, I would recommend LinkedIn Learning's free trial program. LinkedIn Learning provides all kinds of videography courses at all levels.

Remember to have fun with whatever you’re doing, or whatever medium you’re working in. And don’t fall back into old high school habits and forget to do your homework during these courses. Repetition and hands on experience is key to improving any skill.

I think that practical experience is essential in videography. Choose courses that offer opportunities for hands-on learning, such as workshops, projects, or internships.

Truly just go out and have fun with filming. If you put too much pressure on yourself it won’t be fun. The process is just as important as the end result and you’re better off enjoying the craft than pushing yourself unnecessarily and being stressed throughout all of filming and editing. Also, if you have a style you particularly like then research other videographers/storytellers alike and pick ideas from them. You don’t need to buy courses or take college classes to learn all you need to be a great videographer and storyteller.