<p>I'm probably going to double-major in Economics and Film when in college, but what can I do now in order to prepare for a career in film? I like to write, and one of my friends is working on an animated web-show he wants to make. He's picked me to write some episode scripts based on the strength of a spec I wrote a few weeks back. But I want to do more. There's an art contest with a film production category at my school. I'd like to make something (a short film), since there's a clear theme you have to make it about, but how can I do that? I can write my ideas, but I don't know a thing about shooting a movie. Heck, I don't even know the name of the camera I have. All I know is that it's a regular camera with a video feature. Where to begin?</p>
<p>Excellent question.</p>
<p>Many students think that making a film is a solo activity, but that is do wrong. It’s collaborative and needs an enthusiastic team. What I think you should do is the following: If it doesn’t yet exist, create a film club in your school. Make it open to anyone who wants to participate. Some may want to write (you), some direct and do the photography, some produce, find locations, do casting, work on editing and post-production, and especially you will find people who want to act in films!</p>
<ol>
<li>Write up a proposal to create the film club. Include how inclusive it is - inviting everyone who would be interested and emphasize the many roles you need. Also welcome those who don’t know what they want to do yet, but just want to participate.</li>
<li>Take the proposal to your school’s activity director (or a specific teacher that you know might be interested - film class?) and get acceptance for the club.</li>
<li>Get an initial small team together to get the club formed, do publicity, create flyers, etc, and set a first meeting. Recruit! Reach out to actors, theater tech-types, any film or video class members, etc.).</li>
<li>Elect officers and set regular (weekly) meetings.</li>
<li>Create a film company for the club - create a website and logo.</li>
<li>Brainstorm about projects: upcoming competitions, National History Day, filming concerts, making commercials for the school or nearby businesses, etc</li>
<li>Have club competitions as well. Something that is incredible fun is to have - once a semester - a “Shoot-out,” where student teams are given a theme and have only 24- or 48-hours to write, film, and edit a short (5-min max) film. Have a public showing of the entries and award prizes.</li>
<li>etc, etc, etc…</li>
</ol>
<p>Having an enthusiastic team together brainstorming ideas can really push things forward.</p>
<p>Remember that film is collaborative; you don’t need to do everything; trust the team!</p>