What are some effective ways to develop your film industry skills outside of formal education?

1 Join online communities

Online platforms like YouTube, Vimeo, Reddit, and Facebook offer opportunities to connect with other filmmakers, share your work, get feedback, and learn from others. You can also join online courses, webinars, podcasts, and blogs that cover various aspects of filmmaking, such as screenwriting, directing, editing, cinematography, sound design, and more. By engaging with online communities, you can expand your network, gain exposure, and discover new resources and trends.

2 Volunteer or intern

Another way to develop your film industry skills outside of formal education is to volunteer or intern for film projects, festivals, or organizations. This can help you gain hands-on experience, learn from professionals, and build your resume and portfolio. You can look for opportunities on websites like FilmFreeway, Mandy, ProductionHUB, or VolunteerMatch, or contact local filmmakers, studios, or nonprofits directly. Be prepared to work hard, be flexible, and show initiative.

4 Attend workshops and events

Another way to develop your film industry skills outside of formal education is to attend workshops and events related to filmmaking. These can be online or in-person, and can range from one-day seminars to week-long boot camps. You can learn from experts, mentors, or peers, and practice new skills and techniques. You can also network with other filmmakers, industry professionals, or potential employers, and get inspired by their work and stories. You can find workshops and events on websites like Eventbrite, Meetup, or Skillshare, or check out local film schools, studios, or associations.

5 Read books and magazines

Reading books and magazines that cover various aspects of filmmaking is a great way to develop your film industry skills outside of formal education. You can learn from successful filmmakers, screenwriters, producers, and critics, as well as explore different topics, genres, and perspectives. Examples of books and magazines to read include Save the Cat! by Blake Snyder, On Directing Film by David Mamet, In the Blink of an Eye by Walter Murch, Sight and Sound, American Cinematographer, and Film Comment. By following these tips, you can develop your film industry skills and increase your odds of achieving your dream job or project. Remember that filmmaking is a lifelong learning process; there will always be ways to expand your knowledge and challenge yourself.

6 Here’s what else to consider

This is a space to share examples, stories, or insights that don’t fit into any of the previous sections. What else would you like to add?