Aspiring Filmmaker in NJ
 

Hi all.

With the recent advent of digital video, I have decided to jump headfirst into the realm of amateur filmmaking.

I have a great many questions for you all, most notably about digital video equipment, PC cards, software I can use to edit and assemble my work, techniques for burning video cd's or dvd's, and the like.

I also have a lot to learn about scriptwriting and general production stuff, but most of that I can learn from reading a few books at barnes & noble. What I need from you guys is advice on the technical side of this wonderful new world I am embarking upon!

I live at the Jersey Shore and I'm a computer engineer doing telecom work for an area startup firm.

- Ken

Ken,

Not to burst your bubble but...
>I also have a lot to learn about scriptwriting and general production stuff, but most of that I can learn from reading a few books at barnes & noble<

I've been writing feature scripts for over 6 years now, just sold my first script and still have a lot to learn. You might learn some basics about style and structure but you learn how to write by writing and writing and writing.... and writing some more.

Here's a **few** books to start with:
Hero with a thousand faces - Joseph Campbell
Power of Myth - Joseph Campbell and Bill Moyers (PBS Special)
Screenplay - Syd Field
Story - Robert McKee

Read each one at least twice.

Then... scripts and a wide variety. My favorites.
Dogma - Kevin Smith is a nut
Good Will Hunting - outstanding dialog
Star Wars - Classic Hero's Journey
Raging Bull
Breakdown - So-so flick but you can count the story beats blindfolded

I could go on.

Lastly, read Rebel without a crew - Robert Rodriguez
That's my .02 on the writing aspect. Video expertise? Although my degree is in R-TV production, I've had to restart and am a humble rookie as well.

Best of luck.

Thanks.
 

Thanks, I'll check out those titles. I actually looked over Rebel Without a Crew today at Barnes & Noble, it looked really interesting and cool, but I didn't buy it, since it really wasn't geared to my goals as a filmmaker.

I'm trying to take the perspective of a hobbyist. I already have a career, a good one that I like, in telecom. I'm not trying to "break in" to anything or get my script sold... and while I would love a little acclaim and recognition for my remarkable skill and talents (wouldn't we all), at this point, I'm just looking for a way to kill off every other saturday rounding up a bunch of my friends, giving them a script and character writups, and running with it, and just see what I can do. I'm flexing my muscles, not building siege towers!

But I think I will take your advice and chew my way through a few screenplays, it would be really bad if I started doing things my own way and developed bad writing habits.

- Ken

Ken,

I’m echoing some of the good advice you already got. You seem to be interested, as I was years ago (and still am), in the hands-on, technical side of “filmmaking.” That’s a lot of fun and can be learned through experimentation and lots of practice. What can’t be easily learned through practice alone is writing. Oh sure, there are certain basic rules of writing but they don’t amount to anything unless you have the story in you to begin with.

My advice is to begin with non-fiction material. Real stories are ready-made and you can gradually add a little bit of drama to make the “real” more of a story. Re-enactments are a good place to start. You’ll end up with the hybrid “docudrama” style that can provide you with the practice and material to hone your skills as you begin to delve deeper into pure story-telling.

All the best.

Greetings from South Jersey
 

Hello neighbors,

I figured that after lurking about the community for a few months
I should take the time to introduce myself before someone decides to call the police.

First and foremost, a BIG thanks to Chris and to all of you who
have contributed to this forum. It was with much trepidation that
I decided to dive into the world of Mini DV. I purchased the XL1s
just after Thanksgiving and have been having a blast with it ever
since. A big part of my final decision to buy the camera was based
on what the members of this forum thought about the camera.

We’ve had an unusually warm winter here in the Southern New
Jersey, so I’ve had the chance to get out and play with the
camera a lot. I’ve shot everything from nature scenes – my wife is
getting tired of seeing ducks, geese and squirrels –, the family
Christmas gathering, a local train museum having some antique
cars delivered, to a several multi-alarm fires. (I’m a volunteer
fireman in town, so don’t be too alarmed by that part.) I am
thrilled with the possibilities that this camera presents, and from
what I’ve read in this forum, many people share my feelings.

A bit about me: I’m entering my 17th year of directing live
television. I am currently directing sports TV in Philadelphia. I’m
doing highlight shows and the post-game shows for the Flyers,
Sixers, Eagles, and Phillies. In my semi-illustrious career I’ve
directed everything from talk shows, concerts, sporting events,
variety shows, children’s programming, telethons, commercials,
parades (yuk) and yes—news. I put news last because that was
absolute total hell. (Insert sound of Sam Kinison screaming here!!)

I’ve been involved in broadcasting in some form or another since
childhood. My father was in radio as an announcer and engineer.
We even built a pirate radio station that was quite popular
among my peers. I got involved with my high school TV station in
my sophomore year and that pretty much confirmed what I had
known since I was about 6 years old. Being a camera operator
was my first love. At the ripe old age of 20 I landed my first job as
a director at a television station in Harrisburg, PA. I was juiced
knowing that I started my career as a director in the 44th TV
market. But, there were many times that I wished I would have
pursued my childhood dream of being a sports or entertainment
cameraman. Early in my career, however, I realized that the
climate-controlled confines of the production truck were much
better than “schlepping” cables and dealing with Mother Nature,
cheerleaders or no cheerleaders.

Anyway, enough of that stuff. I’ve been itching to get back to my
roots and finally took the plunge with this camera. I’m just
refreshing my camera skills for now but I have every intention of
making this investment pay off.

I might have an interesting project in the works. My brother is a
Chief at a fire company in the Jersey Pine Barrens and his
station needs members in a big way. I am working out the details
for shooting a recruitment video for his station. I had some really
great ideas, but due to the drought emergency that has just
been placed in effect, I’ve gone back to the drawing board to
figure out a way to make this video appealing without flowing a
lot of water.

Even though we're a dual platform household, I don't have any
editing capabilities yet. All signs are pointing to us purchasing a
new Mac G4 dual processor with FCP 3 in a few weeks. (And I
just got us out of debt!) If we do buy this computer and I can get
my brother's video produced, I’d be happy to post our results.

I can’t tell you how impressed I am with the members of this
community. I learn something new every day, whether it is from
someone who purchased the camera yesterday, or from the
people who have been “in the business” even longer than I have.

Thanks to everyone and happy shooting.

Warmest Regards,


Bill Markel

A Hearty Welcome, Bill!
 

Thanks very much for providing everyone with such an introduction. Yours is an extremely interesting background. As you probably already know we have several other folks here who are, or have been, involved in broadcast production work so you're in good company.

It sounds like you're having more than your fair share of fun with your XL1s. There're plenty of folks to ask for help or share your experiences with here. We soak up war stories here like drunken fishermen so bring 'em on!

Also, Chris is opening a Mac/FCP forum here shortly (as well as a PC platform forum). I, too, am a Mac/FCP3 user and have just updated my bay to the dual G4-1GHz. I thought I was in hog-heaven with my dual G4-500MHz; now I -know- I'm in hog heaven and my hair's on fire, too.

Great to have you aboard, Bill!

p.s. You might be interested in attending one of Apple's free FCP demo seminars if you're considering FCP3 and have never seen it in action. I don't know how close you are to Mahwah (not familliar with NJ) but there's one coming up on the 21st of this month. Go to this (rediculously long) link for more info and to register.

http://db1.seminars.apple.com/cgi-bin/WebObjects/ASPRegistration.woa/7/wa/eventDetails?eventId=16978&wosid=JRIxNjPU5fgnhPWRFBbwRw

Ken said it all. It is great to have you aboard! There are a lot
of other "professionals" and other people around. I do think
it is a great (warm, fuzzy and cuddly) board, have learned a
lot myself too. Great to hear you like the camera too, she truly
is a beauty, isn't she?

Just one more thing to say: welcome aboard!

Seminar Info
 

Ken,

Thanks for the FCP info. Mahwah is a bit too far but I did find out that there is a seminar in Philly next Wednesday morning. I'll be going.

Thanks again,

Bill

p.s. I'm sure I'll have a bazillion questions for the Mac/FCP forum.

Indie in New Jersey
 

I’m a 28 year old writer, producer, director, and editor (with no money, of course ;) ) I graduated from Rochester Institute of Technology 5 years ago with a BFA in Film/Video. Currently I am trying to learn as much as I can about DV & HD so that I can get the highest production value out of the cheapest dollar, and better understand the tools of my craft. My goal is to shoot a feature film (comedy) in 2004, but not as a DP, just as a director. I am looking to build a relationship with a knowledgeable DP, and a knowledgeable Sound Person (both for recording dialogue, and for doing a mix down.)

It sounds like the Kevin Smith story... Almost :) He sold his car just to be able to film Clerks. He also had most of his friends and their families in the picture.

There is a person on these boards, in N.Y. as a matter of fact, that is doing a project now. He is looking for help, in exchange for help. Hands on is the best way to learn.
Best wishes on your project,
Keith

* * NYC * *
 

Glenn,

Excellent! I think I'm the one Capt Quirk is referring to. I currently own my own equipment, live in NYC, and I am completing my first legit SAG project. As a director of photography/producer/director/actor and everything that needs to be done. I am very interested in D.P./Cinematography.

Lets get in touch, network, and make some work happen. I am also looking to build quality team of working relationships, and partners.

Send over an email and let me know.

Cheers!

Derrick Begin

Hey Glen. Where in New Jersey are you? I shoot primarily with a PD150, have a decent set of lights, mics and equipment. Just beginning to work on shorts with a friend. Be fun to get together.

Rick Spilman
Meridian Multimedia

Welcome aboard Glenn and good luck with your projects!

>>Welcome aboard Glenn and good luck with your projects!<<

Thanks.

I'm in NYC- if you need another camera angle- count me in- Canon GL2

Welcome
 

Hello Glen...I live in Brooklyn and I shoot with the XL1s. Always looking towards Networking and havin fun shootin.

Send me an email about whats goin on and lets see what we can do.

Man what a great day of shooting at the Anti-War Rally here in NYC!

Peace
alex

Beginner in Central New Jersey
 

Hi, My name is Roger and am glad to be here.
I just bought my Sony TRV950 and is looking forward to learn about shooting videos, editing them and author it on VCD's or DVD's.
Once again, I look forward to learn many valuable lessons here.

Welcome aboard Roger. We are glad to have you! Have fun looking
around and see you around.

Hey gang
 

I live in Brooklyn, off the L, and am looking for partners in crime, as it sometimes feels stealing these great locations in New York. I shoot on a PD150 and edit on FCP. I have a bunch of gear including good mics, mixer, DAT, lights, steadytracker, etc. I am in preproduction for a short that I will produce as soon as it gets a bit warmer, but I would be happy to trade labor and collaborate with others on projects. Send me an e-mail at:
Mark_Hinnawi@hotmail. com

Sign me up for any help needed in the northern NJ/NYC area. VX2000/2pro mics/softboxes/booms/etc.

hey!!!!
 

hailing from Brooklyn with an xl1-s and a pretty good setup, ready and willing to shoot... act... direct... go get coffee, man whatever, let's just do it. Oh I have to mention this; just purchased a me66, an me62 and power module from B&H used for $400. somebody purchasaed them and brought them back in 2 days later and I happened to be there! so nowI need to record something... NOW!!!

Newbie in NJ
 

Hey everyone,
I just found this forum and had hoped that you guys would be able to provide some help, for I know absolutely nothing about any aspect of creating films. At the moment, I don't even have a camcorder (working on this, however).

I'm not sure which way i should approach learning about film creation. If anyone can suggest and websites or books to get me started, I would really appreciate it.

Thank you in advance ;)

Welcome, Casey! Your question is a tough one since you do not
really have a question. Basically movie making can be broken down
into 3 parts. Setting it up (thinking about an idea, writing it down,
doing story boards, securing locations etc...) is the first part.
The second part is actually shooting your movie and this can
include outdoor locations, indoor, actors, props etc. The last part
is the delivery part. Here you edit your footage, perhaps add
effects, do a sound mix and encode it in your final format (web,
TV, DVD etc.).

Now most indepedent movie creators do all these things either
by themselves or with some help. It is possible you can have
things done by other people/companies (you buy/get a script
for example. Or someone edits your movie. Or you have a company
that encodes your video and presses DVD's for you).

I hope you get the idea a bit. You've already found a very good
resource: this site (there are articles here from first time movie
shooting to highly technical things and product reviews) and its
forums which you have already discovered.

The main thing to be said is: go out there and just do it. Get your-
self a camera and start shooting. In my humble opinion there is
no better way to:

1. learn
2. learn your camera
3. learn what you like
4. learn what you don't like
5. learn what you still need to learn
6. get in contact with other people
7. do what you (hopefully) love/like

If you have specific questions you can put them up in their
respective forums on this board.

Good luck with your projects!

Welcome Casey!
Rob has offered some excellent getting-started advice. I can only add that you should look through our "Read About It" forum. There are some excellent book recommendations in there.

hey
 

Welcome,
Im in NJ also, and make movies on DV cam. The best thign to do is to just start creating stories that you can make, and go make them. Thats the best way to learn. You know the type of movies you like, so try to emulate them. If you have any questions, lemme know.
Michael
IOoAVEXoOI@yahoo.com

Every reply here is right on the money. I'd like to add that you should:

1) Watch your favorite movies within the genre that you're interested in becoming involved.

2) Take note on how they make you feel and why.

3) Be ready to hit that rewind button alot to study how and why the director used that camera angle and why he cut at a specific time and place. Also pay attention to how shadows fall on the characters and set to ascertain how the scene was lit.

4) Do the above three steps ALOT. Do it so much that you can recite the dialog from the movie in your sleep.

5) Read the book "The Five Cs of Cinematography" by Joseph C. Mascelli.

6) Purchase an inexpensive DV video camera and play with it. Videotape cars driving by and airplanes taking off in order to get used to using a tripod and handheld. Get a feel for the camera and framing the pictue because you actually have to get used to the camera being in your hand. Technique is everything.

7) Ask people if they'd like for you to videotape their upcoming event. You can use the practice and they can use the tape!

This is just a start. It gets much more involved.

Just wanted to say hi to you fellow New Jerseyans! I work in Philadelphia but live in Medford, NJ amongst the pines! :-)

Anyone here working on anything interesting? I run a production company, going full scale soon. Doing everything from small weddings up to feature indie films. Im a writer, director and videographer... My name is Michael Estepp and Im in Mercer County.

Take it easy...

INdependents
 

Dear Boyd and Mike:

I also supplement my income with wedding videos (the funds from which are used to feed my ever increasing video equipment addiction). My real passion is independent films shot on digital video. I don't know if "youse guys" had seen my other posts, but my home town had a fella named Steven Pershing write, direct, edit and star in a two hour movie shot on a digital 8 Sony Handycam which he subsequently projected digitally from our neighborhood multiplex. It came out fantastic (the sound was awesome as well) and the whole experience opened my eyes to our potential as local independents. His website is WWW.STEELSPIRIT.COM. Check it out. I hail from Absecon, New Jersey, (8 miles inland from Atlantic City). I have a pretty good collection of equipment, I also write, direct, shoot and edit my own projects and have a 60 page screenplay ready to shoot. Pulling our resources might be the way to go! Reach out and let me know.

Im all for teaming up with the local guys! I always jump at the chance to "jam" with new people. I have peices of scripts laying all over the place, and equipment out the wazoo... can i say that? :-) anyway... My aim name is IOoAVEXoOI if you want to IM me...
Michael

Just wanted to say hi, as well, to my fellow Jersians. ;)

We should all get together and do a colaborative work.

As for me I've also been supplementing my income doing wedding videography. Regarding videography my true passion is short-film however the wedding work I've been doing makes it impossible to coorelate any effort to film a short. Worst part is the Wedding video business is to lucrative to put on hold, I really need the money to pay off my loans that I used to buy my gear, etc. Mabye all I'll ever end up doing is weddings. Who know's what the future holds.

<<<-- Originally posted by Glen Elliott : Just wanted to say hi, as well, to my fellow Jersians. ;) We should all get together and do a colaborative work. -->>>

That would be fun, and something to keep in mind. However my job here at the Opera is going to be very demanding this season, so this will have to wait a little while unfortunately...

Thanks!!
 

Wow. What an enthusiastic response. Can you imagine the scenes we'd get on multiple camera setups?? I don't perport to be an expert on filmmaking by any stretch and pulling resources with other talented Jerseyans might create a project that would seriously make a dent in the independent market. My shortcomings are finding decent talent. I do not know any trained actors. Sure I find plenty of colleagues who volunteer their services but get them to memorize lines? Forget it. What a fiasco. Oh well. Oh, and as far as the wedding videos I do, well, I have a confession: I HATE WEDDINGS!

Oddly enough I'm not a fan of them either. On the flip side I love editing so I don't mind that particular step in the process albiet the longest and most tedious one. It's just that I couldn't find another way do video lucratively. I spent 9 months in post on a documentary and recieved nothing.....roughly 2 months on a wedding and I make a couple grand- not too bad.

Speaking of my documentary- I mentioned this in another post- my partner submitted it to a Philly Film Festival and it got accepted! It'll be sometime in August. I'll post the details as soon as I get them! Ya'll local folks should come on down and we could have a meet.

Hey
 

Hey Folks,
Well it sounds like you're all eager, and ready to work. I have a few productions lined up that I will need help with. Please, if you're dedicated, hardworking, and interested.... drop me a line... IOoAVEXoOI@yahoo.com

Michael Estepp

Got the info: Prince Theatre in Philadelphia, Wednesday August 6th Wednesday @ 8:00. Anyone from the area that wants to attend let me know so I can look for you that night!

Call for tickets: 215 569 9700

Website: http://www.princemusictheater.org/

I'm uploading a 38 meg MPG trailer of it to Ed Troxel's FTP. We'll see if he'll be able to handle the bandwidth for a day or two. If anyone else has any webspace they might be able to lend for a few days to show everyone here the trailer, let me know- thanks!

Glen: What is the documentarey about?

Mike: What kind of productions do you make? I am in the pre-production phase of my own hour long fictional short about auto insurance fraud. It has thirteen characters and locations all over Atlantic County. I have a few professional actors but need more. My pros are a few work colleagues and are eager. Two camera setups would be fabulous. Let me know.

Spelling counts
 

Glen: That's "documentary" NOT documentarey. That was a typo. I pride myself on grammer and spelling. :-)

Check and see for yourself- ever hear of the "Wing Bowl"?

www.jetdv.com/scripts/eattrailer.mpg