Go Shoot Movies

The best way to get better at something is to just go out there and do it. Sure you might not have all the equipment nor expertise in the world, but you'll learn. Some creative brilliance can come from constraints. All you need is a camera, a computer, and a few helping friends.

This is a great time for anyone to be a film maker. There are plenty of resources at your disposable. Free yet powerful programs such as Celtx, Blender, or Audacity can help you get started (An article about other great free resources). You also have access to the biggest pool of information ever, the internet. If you have any question in regards to making a film, there's more than likely a couple thousand tutorials out there. And you can find a camera nearly everywhere. Most smartphones these days can shoot in 1080p full HD, that's the same resolution as most of the camera's at my school.

A small short by RocketJump shot on a phone.

Once you have a good idea of what your story is, make a story board. A story board is basically a progressive series of pictures that indicate the shots, camera angles, and actions you will be recording. Think of it as making a comic that you will soon after adapt into film. Story boards can be anything from pictures of dolls, to sketches, to stick figures. Unless you have an insanely good memory, a storyboard is a great tool to help you know what you need to shoot and optimize your time.

Storyboards for short film 'A Pickle'

Once you're ready. Gather up your friends and start shooting. Bring some snacks and water to make sure everyone is fed and happy! Your first movie might not be the best, but that's okay! With each film you work on, you will get better!

(My first film)