This year is about to end and I want to share a few thoughts. Even within the last few months I've learned so much from my mistakes.

What I've learned in the past two weeks is that the story......the storyline trumps the type of camera, the equipment, the gear and everything else. I was thinking that I should invest in some cinematic glass. But as I've had listened to more and more lectures, seminars and tutorials I've come to realize that the importance of the story paramounts all others when it comes to making films. Having the human element of a story in any presentation really helps connect my audience to the information that I'm trying to convey. So this piece information has saved me lots of money. In the long run all the components of a good film such as lighting, sound, gear etc.... is important. It's just that the storyline is what I really need to focus on more than the other.

Lately I've been trying to perfect my gimbal shots. I submitted this short clip to a client who did some work for us. I never told him I was doing it til I needed more of his info. So he had no expectations. Next time I'll make it shorter. It's too long and loses the audience. Despite of that I think it turned out. I captured it in 4K and also was at 120 fps.

Things I've learned in filmmaking:

1. Learn.
When it comes to developing myself as a filmmaker I need to take advantage of all the information that is accessible online. The internet is full of resources. I need to tap into it and watch as many tutorials to grow my skills as an editor, a filmmaker, a sound technician, a director and as a content creator.


2. Create.
I must take the info that I've learned and then create my own projects. That information won't stick with me unless I use it to create my own work. Create projects that demand I learn a new skill. For example create a small motion graphics in After Effects or Motion. Start using Premiere Pro. 

3. Repeat.
Repetition of the process is necessary in order to mastered it. A skill gets better when it is used more often. 

4. Story.
The story is king. This is the most important key in the filmmaking craft. There's a saying that goes something like this: Audio without video is radio, video without audio is dead. Don't spend so much money on equipment when starting out. Rather focus on getting a good story and telling it well visually. The other stuff will come later. 

5. Networking.
Successful filmmaking is a collaborative effort. I can do everything myself but it will be a better product when I work with other creatives who know their craft well.

.........there's more to it than this but these stick out in my mind.