You're considering a career in Film Production. Which path will lead you to success?

I am from a different educational background, I never took any degree related to media or film production, but the time I developed my interest in this field I learned everything from YouTube or different platforms available online. With determination & focus we can develop skills if the passion is real.

I tell my interns how I graduated bottom of my class at university, and a year later, my work had ten million viewers on it online - I don't want them to worry about formality and focus on ambition. I was a late bloomer, where I come from I couldn't afford a camera as a kid so I didn't pick up a camera until 20, I never studied media at college level - I remember my first day of uni everyone said it was so basic and they had learnt it before, I was in the deep end, clueless. But I fell in love with development - bit by bit; systems price out people from poorer income, but the library, pen and paper, they should be where you spend your time on the weekends, school or not.

you need little education as much as you need a good hussle or attitude to learn. Are you ready to meet people and be available for others.

Considering a career in film production involves exploring multiple paths to find the one that leads to success. Start with a strong educational foundation by taking courses in film production, cinematography, or related fields. Gaining practical experience through internships or entry-level positions on film sets is crucial for understanding the industry’s dynamics. Networking is vital; attend industry events, film festivals, and workshops to connect with professionals and potential mentors. Diversify your skills by learning about various roles within film production, such as directing, producing, editing, and scriptwriting.

In film production, education provides a solid foundation. For example, formal film school offers structured learning from screenwriting to editing, along with hands-on experience and industry insights. However, self-taught skills through online resources or apprenticeships also lead to success. The key is continuous learning to stay abreast of evolving trends and technologies in filmmaking. This approach ensures versatility and readiness to tackle diverse challenges in the industry.

I worked three jobs I didn't exactly like, to pay to get experience in film. Not by paying people to shoot them, but just things like travel to the major cities where the most ambitious people were. And where there is hope there is also struggle, so I found the places with hope (like London) but I wasn't welcome in the high areas, so instead I found the struggle, the desperate and gave them my full confidence and excitement to present hope. Sure enough, those people became millionaires after we shot in some of the most dangerous, poorest parts of London. That's what you need to be doing as a filmmaker, finding the hope in the struggle. If you focus on the art of film, that's where you become an artist, that's the experience.

I am grateful for my time in film school and would not trade it for anything. It was a golden time in my life and what I learned there was invaluable. The network I built there has been as well. With all of that said, my film professors did not themselves hesitate to say that what we learn through direct experience is vital and cannot be fully replicated outside of the process of actually making film or television. There are many stellar professionals in our industry with no university-level education related to this industry who nevertheless thrive. I have found it is also easiest for many people to discover their path through this industry by working in it. Often, what they thought they wanted from their work evolves in that context.

Gaining real-world experience is essential in film. Starting with internships or entry-level roles on sets provides valuable insights into production. Building a network and showing initiative, like creating short films or volunteering locally, highlights your talent. Each project enhances skills and builds a portfolio crucial for future opportunities in the industry.

This is true. However, my film school instructors were either Academy Award Winners or Nominees in their field in the film industry or at the very least had very important roles in films that won in "whatever" category. Robert Dolva just passed away and he was my (favorite) editing instructor.

You can network anywhere? At a country club, in an airport, going to charity events. Go outside your circle of people with people or alone. Being comfortable alone is a big key for networking. When does your start?

Finding your niche is so important in going after what you want. If you specialize in AI prompts you will be a go-to person to get things done in the world of AI. No fancy training is needed, just access to YouTube and your willingness to learn more and apply.

Creative collaboration can take place for free and only cost you your time as you learn more and enlarge your network. Where can your creativity take you next? To Belgium to NY to France online or meet people in a forum. Creativity can form by asking questions and being willing to help others.

YALE, Harvard, Princeton, Brown, etc. All of these schools offer free courses and ability to sit in on their lectures. Take advantage of this free learning that wasn't offered years ago without paying. Get yours for free online.

If possible before making a decision on what you Think " you might want do put in a few days / or a week/if doable in Eatch department get a feel for what's going to be expected and what kind of 'Peeps ' youl be spending MANY Hours Days and Nights with . For instance had l known what becoming a GRIP would entail- the constant beating, From the key' and best boy! the A camera dolly grips constant demands !! the humping ,and lifting , of gear " plus the carrying of nothing under 250 lbs day after day (the senior Grip or dominant 3erd ! ) ld have Run screaming to the Hair and Make up department !!! I just wished I mastered the Dolly much sooner!. Seriously though: it's a magnificent career Choice .