5 Online Resources for Budding Filmmakers

noreply@blogger.com (Paul Devoto) — Fri, 11 Nov 2011 00:20:00 +0000

In Outliers, Malcolm Gladwell informs us that the key to becoming an expert in a given field is time...10,000 hours to be specific. Fortunately for us, I have discovered some amazing shortcuts that will cut that number down to...say...well less than 10,000.

Although nothing can help you develop that intuitive knowing like hands-on experience can, here are 5 great resources for learning filmmaking skills.

1. Vimeo's Video School

Vimeo is like the grown-up version of YouTube. It's where the artists go to share their work in a clean, more sophisticated environment. They also have a great series of videos under the category "Video School." Some of these videos are produced by Vimeo, and many more are submitted by users. Check it out and you're sure to find wonderful teachers to learn from.

2. Lynda.com

Lynda is the best comprehensive online resource for learning and mastering software. They also have related videos in the digital arts, including titles such as "Video for Photographers: Shooting with a DSLR" and "Foundations of Photography: Exposure" which are both excellent series for learning the basics. When it comes to learning the video editing software like Final Cut Pro X or Adobe Premiere, you'll want to come here. Membership is $25 a month and you can cancel anytime. This is the only resource mentioned that isn't free. However, it is absolutely worth $25 to watch a few series when you have time.

3. Olivia Tech

Olivia Tech is a great site for daily reviews on new tech gear. She often gets gear as soon as it hits the market, if not before, and provides basic reviews. Sometimes she includes videos as well.

4. Learning DSLR Video
While I admit I haven't seen too many of his videos, he does a pleasing personality and seems to do a good job reviewing new gear. I really enjoyed this video review on the Kinova Slider.

5. Amazon.com
Yes. Amazon. The online store. Amazon is incredible for exploring and researching gear. If you hear about a great lens, you can find the price, read reviews, and even see comparable lenses that others have bought. In my opinion, amazon.com is hands-down the best site for researching new equipment. And trust me, once you begin to go down this path of becoming a filmmaker, amazon.com will become your new best friend.

So that's it. Using great resources like the 5 above will have you on the fast track to becoming an expert; you may even find yourself there in only 9,995 hours!

Brown Bag Labs

5 Online Resources for Budding Filmmakers