Want to a career as a director but do not know how to get there? Here are eight directing tips from award-winning filmmaker James Genn.
By: Sophia Lin
One of the most highly coveted jobs in the film industry is none other than the top job on set: directing. The remarkable level of creativity, the expression of personal vision, and the opportunity for collaborative leadership are just a few of the numerous aspects that make many dream of having a career as a director.
For student filmmakers, however, it can be an aspiration that seems daunting, or simply too far off. That’s one of the many myths we’ll debunk here — anyone who sets their mind to it can direct. But, the more advice and insight you can gain, the better off you’ll be to set forth on the unique, enthralling path that a career as a director offers.
So take it from award-winning Canadian director James Genn, as he extends his most essential tips for directing both film and TV, across a diverse range of genres from comedy to horror. The recipient of Genie Award, Gemini Award, and Canadian Screen Award nominations, his work has been screened at festivals all around the world, including the Toronto International Film Festival. Most recently, he’s directed episodic TV content for the likes of Disney+, Hulu, and CBC.
Below, find nuanced, personal tips from a director who has not only had over decades of directing experience, but has created and continues to create some of the finest work in Canada and beyond. Keep reading to see how you can start your career as a director and make fantastic films.
Click here to learn more about InFocus Film School’s Film Production Program!
1. Focus on Your Work
Filmmakers often find that they have to surreptitiously juggle two worlds: the purely creative facets of film and the unavoidable business side of the industry. Those who focus on a love of the craft and nurture a singular mission to create exceptional work, notes Genn, are the ones who truly do well.
As he emphasizes, “The agent doesn’t come before the work. Your job is to do work — do great work — and do the best you can and learn from your mistakes. Eventually, when your work starts getting seen by people and it reaches a certain level, then, trust me, the agents will come to you.”
2. Connect with the Audience
“When you’re working on a moment to moment, beat to beat, choice by choice basis, it’s really about how you are connecting to an audience,” says Genn. “How are you communicating ideas to an audience and making them feel something?”
The object of directing can be manifold, but one of the most important aims should be human connection. Though this certainly can demand a delicate counterbalance with personal and artistic expression, serving the audience should remain a staple of your work.
“As I’ve grown and matured as a director, it’s switched to becoming not about an expression of yourself, but about communicating ideas to somebody else. And the audience is first,” he adds.
3. Build Long-Lasting Relationships
As the saying goes, Hollywood is built on relationships. And that couldn’t be closer to the truth. Genn has maintained a close, career-long relationship with his first agent, who remains his agent still to this day.
“The one thing I can’t stress enough is that you build relationships and you stick to them,” he advises. “Your whole career is about relationship building. The people that you meet along the way and the type of vibe you bring to your work. Make that good and enjoyable for people, and they’ll keep calling you.”
4. Be Tenacious
“The tenacity worked. It took a long time, but eventually, I had done enough work that people had to listen to me. I was there, I hadn’t gone away,” Genn reflects.
In a fast-changing, ever-growing industry like film, staying tenacious is a key quality that leads to success. The name of the game is to keep at it — start out by volunteering on sets and working as a PA, and remain steadfast as you work your way up the ladder.
He adds, “The people who know how to communicate well, collaborate well, understand other people’s needs, and respect the value of every single person working on the crew and the cast equally — those are the people who are going to do really well.”
5. Take Responsibility
When it comes to responsibility, the stance a director has can have ripple effects across the entire cast and crew. This sets the tone for collaboration and interaction on set. As a result, a shift in mindset can be the crucial, defining difference between those who make it and those who don’t.
“The great directors I know, they take responsibility for everything they do,” Genn reveals. “They don’t sit around blaming the PA because they’ve broken something and they can’t get their shot. Everything that they do is their responsibility, no matter what the circumstances are. And they take that responsibility very personally. That’s how their work goes from being just work to being exceptional work.”
6. Manage Your Stress
“As a director, you have to live and die by decisions you’re making all day long,” Genn discloses. “It’s the stress of knowing that if you’re trying to shoot too much for the scene in the morning, then the scene you’re going to shoot in the afternoon, you’re going to rush the actors or you’re going to have to cut the shots down. So on a macro level, you really have to learn to manage your stress very well.”
Directing involves decisive leadership and vision, and often, many don’t fully consider the stress that may come with that. The key, however, is to decide and let it go. As Genn advises, “Don’t fuss about the things you can’t control and work very hard on the things that you can.”
7. Embrace Challenges
Pursuing a career as a director can sometimes feel like a great leap of faith. However, the secret to overcoming this lies right within you. Genn’s advice is, with your passion as your guide, wholeheartedly embrace the challenges that come your way.
“When you’re on a film crew at any level and you look around you, you see a lot of people that are there for the same reasons you are. And we connect to that. It’s a pretty hard thing to resist,” he explains. “You’ll sacrifice a lot of things in your life, including the daunting feeling of it, the challenge of it, because the reward of it is so great and the work that you do is so interesting. If it was too easy, it wouldn’t be quite as fun, right?”
8. Dedicate Yourself To A Career As A Director
“There’s a big difference between being able to just direct something and being able to direct something exceptional. And making something stand out takes a tremendous amount of effort and work,” Genn remarks. “It takes you sitting down at home and imagining ten different ways that some single scene, or beat, or moment in something you’re making can be done.”
Dedication is known to separate the great from the ordinary, and directing is no different. The amount of sheer hard work and thought you put into your craft will show. Therefore, the more you put in, the better.
He concludes, “Your job is to make things work at all costs. You find a way to apply your talents to a variety of genres, a variety of voices, and you learn how to do it better than anyone else.”
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Networking in the Film Industry – 6 Strategies
Looking to start networking in the film industry? Here are six tips on how to connect with other filmmakers!
By: Sophia Lin
A career in film can be kickstarted from a multitude of places, in a multitude of ways. However, nearly every one of those possibilities involves one key ingredient: a network. And not simply any network will do. If you’re looking to have a shot at those golden opportunities that’ll get your foot in the door, you’ll need a network that’s well-developed, expansive, and diverse.
But how do you network? Whether it’s building a community or expanding one, it’s an age-old question that can often stump creatives who’d rather focus on their craft. The good news is, we’re here to break it down. From keeping your portfolio at the ready to simply using social media to reach out, networking is far less intimidating than it seems. For many, it turns out to be one of the most enjoyable and fulfilling aspects of their career and, not to mention, a wonderful way to find your people.
So, to get to know the exact science of networking in the film industry, look no further. Take one well-informed step at a time and you’ll find yourself with an invaluable community of trusted collaborators and fellow artists.
Click here to learn more about InFocus Film School’s Film Production Program!
1. Take Advantage of Events & Structured Spaces
When it comes to events, feel free to start small — local filmmaker gatherings, panels or Q&As at the theatre around the corner, and the like. Go to places and spaces that interest you, hang around, and naturally, you’ll find people who share your passions and ambitions. From there, striking up a casual conversation and following up with an email a few days later establishes the beginnings of a well-built relationship.
Structured spaces like film schools, fellowships, or film festivals are one of the most sure-fire ways to meet budding filmmakers like yourself. The folks who have made it there are already those at the top of their game, so leveraging these opportunities is a must — both for exponentially expanding your network and getting to know some future key players in the industry.
2. Keep Your Portfolio Handy
Preparation is key, and this applies to any facet of your work. Portfolios, samples, reels, and previous work should be constantly up-to-date and at your fingertips, should any producer, executive, or agent ask you for them. These are too often spur-of-the-moment chances, so be ready and seize them when they come!
In a similar vein, have an elevator pitch ready to go. Whatever you’re working on or soon to be working on, knowing a 2-3 minute summary will come in more than handy. Whether it’s at events or interviews, this will quickly pique the interest of those around you, and almost always, a solid idea rather than an abstract concept will attract far more potential collaborators.
3. Leverage Social Media
While Instagram is one of the most frequented social media platforms, when it comes to networking in the film industry, don’t discount the power of LinkedIn and Facebook. Make connections with filmmakers you’re interested in, or simply those in the area, and you’ll get a direct channel to any work or life updates they have. Then use that chance to jump in on the conversation.
Similarly, Facebook groups are an excellent way to meet new peers. Search your specific line of work within your locale and there’s bound to be an existing group you can join. With that, you’ll also be getting the low-down on the jobs, fellowships, and internships near you — all promising opportunities to partake in to expand your network and hone your skills.
4. Connect Beyond Your Peer Group
It may seem like a no-brainer to only network with those in your field: editors getting to know editors, animators reaching out to animators. But resist the urge! This might feel like a cliche but it really is beneficial to extend your network far and wide.
Say you’re a cinematographer — get to know casting directors, actors, and even non-film people! Not only will they expand your reach, but they’ll have projects and ideas unlike anyone else you know. And in terms of your professional growth, it’s greatly rewarding to understand various facets of the film industry, enriching what you bring to your own craft. Not to mention, you might be the only cinematographer they know, so you’ll be a go-to when they’re looking for anything related to your discipline.
5. Add Value & Give Back
You’ve probably heard the saying that networking is a two-way street. But how exactly do you give back? The first and most doable is to simply check in. Set a reminder on your calendar, and every 3 to 4 months or so, email your connections to ask how they’re doing. Be sure to include some of your own updates as well. This keeps a conversation naturally flowing, and shows that you’re genuinely interested in creating a meaningful relationship.
A second way is to make introductions and stay proactive when networking in the film industry. Don’t only be on the lookout for opportunities that fit you. If you catch wind of a great gig that just isn’t in your field, actively reach out to your network to see if anyone’s interested. Better yet, stay on top of everyone’s interests, and make an intro personally to, say, a director in need of an assistant producer.
6. Take Initiative for Networking in the Film Industry
It’s easy to forget in all the hubbub of attending various events and opportunities that you can organize your own get-togethers too. Have a group of friends from film school? Set up a weekly lunch date! Want to get to know your colleagues better? Suggest a dinner after the shoot! Sometimes, if you’re having trouble finding the right spaces to network, take the first step forward instead.
This applies to the micro-moments of networking as well. Be the first to say hi, ask a question, or offer your contact info. If you have work you’d love to show, don’t wait for someone to ask — bring it up instead. With a proactive approach, you’ll significantly expedite the growth of your network. Soon, people will know and trust you as the one who makes things happen.
Get Started!
These following opportunities are excellent launching pads for networking in the film industry and building your film and TV network:
CREATE Vancouver in Vancouver, BC
Mid June
6IXCONNECTED Networking Event in Toronto, ON
May-June
CAFÉ (Conference, Animation, FX, and Expertise) Conference in Montreal, QC
Early June
Canadian International Comedy Film Festival in Winnipeg, MB
Early October
Vancouver International Film Festival in Vancouver, BC
September-October
Lavazza IncluCity Press Conference in Toronto, ON
Late May
Toronto International Film Festival in Toronto, ON
Mid September
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Valécia Pépin: InFocus Film School $10,000 Scholarship Winner
Filmmaking is about telling stories. What makes a meaningful film is the story you tell and how you capture it. Filmmaker and radio-host, Valécia Pépin has the courage to share real stories on screen and the talent to produce them. InFocus Film School is proud to announce that Pépin has been selected as the winner of the InFocus $10,000 Scholarship. Her short film Illusion: The Fear documents her own experience as a young woman struggling to free herself from a pimp who was taking advantage of her. We were touched by her story, her talent, and her relentless courage to push forward and keep creating in spite of her difficult past. We cannot wait to have her become a part of the InFocus family this September and see what she creates next.
Pépin was born in Haiti and was adopted by a family who resides in Quebec City. At nine months old, on Christmas Eve, 1989 she moved to Canada. She grew up in Quebec, surrounded by painting, cameras, and media from an early age.
“I have always been an artist, if I can say, because my mom was bringing me to workshops, she was always painting,” she said. “I used to be a model from two years old, so I started being in front of the camera very young.”
Pépin has always been fascinated by media and its capacity for storytelling. She was the host of her high school radio show and went on to work for CBC radio in Edmonton for many years. She knew by the age of fifteen that she wanted to be in front of the camera telling stories. It wasn’t until someone prompted her to share her own story that she decided to take a stab at behind the camera.
“At first I didn’t want to share my stories. I moved from Quebec to Edmonton because people were telling me, because of my past you will never reach your goals or your dreams. You can forget it.”
However, this didn’t stop her. She shared her past of getting caught up with pimps as a young girl and forced to do things that she didn’t want to do. Pépin has begun to share her story through film in order to help spread awareness about this taboo subject that isn’t widely discussed.
“I can help, I can share, I can listen. People will come to me and tell me I went through this, or my sister, or my child, or my nephew. If someone told me how these things happen, or saw it on TV, I would know the red flags and be aware. I want to spread awareness on this whole world.”
Subjects like sex work, prositution, and its dangers are often taboo in our mediascape, but its out there. It takes a lot of courage to share your own difficult past, but it makes a real story – a story that we can’t wait to see on the big screen.
With her scholarship, Pépin will be enrolling in our 12-month Film Production Program starting this September.
“I fell in love with the camera, the angles, what you want to project, and what you want to see and share and all that. I fell in love with the lens, how it works. I am comfortable being in front of the camera, but I need more experience. I need to learn how and know everything and make my own decisions behind the camera. I need the skills to do what I love” she added.
Valécia Pépin has unbelievable resilience, talent, and passion for storytelling. She has never given up, even when things have gotten tough. Her dedication and hardwork has got her so far already and we cannot wait to see what she accomplishes during her time at InFocus.
“When life wants you somewhere they will bring you there, and this is why I keep doing this.”
How to Start Learning Filmmaking for Beginners
Wondering how to start learning filmmaking? Keep reading for our 8 tips on how to get started in filmmaking for beginners.
By: Kennedy Randall
There is no single place to start learning filmmaking. Learning the craft is a long journey where you will discover what role you want on set and what stories you want to tell. How to get started in filmmaking comes down to you and the effort you can put in gaining experience. Whether that’s on set, in school, or in your area, seize the day and start learn filmmaking.
Below, we have six starting points to start learning filmmaking. Everyone start’s somewhere, even the greatest directors. Hard work, creativity, and passion will be your guides, but keep reading for our guide on how to begin your journey in the film industry.
Click here to learn more about InFocus Film School’s Film Production Program!
1. Watch and Study Movies
Likely, watching movies is what drew you to filmmaking in the first place. Watching films is a great place to start on your filmmaking journey. When you are enjoying movies with friends or family, think about what you think made this film a great one. Notice how they organise their shots and scenes. As well, think about how they have used the camera to develop the plot. By taking the time to really see what makes a great film, you will develop a critical eye that will help you develop your own films.
Take the time to watch the classics as well as new movies coming out today. Director Steven Spielberg has said that he still learns from films that came out 50 years ago and tells aspiring filmmakers to watch the classics. Whether that’s Citizen Kane or Man with a Movie Camera, these are resources that are integral to filmmaking for beginners.
2. Pick Up A Camera
Obviously, eventually, you will need some professional equipment. But this is your first film, not your oscar winning feature! There is nothing stopping you from shooting something on the phone in your back pocket. As a beginner, the best way to learn is to experiment with short videos and shots on your phone. You don’t need to invest in expensive gear, have a massive budget to start learning filmmaking.
Your best assets are your creativity and what you have on hand. Grab a couple friends and shoot a short film. All you need is an idea, script, cast, and location. Practice making storyboards and getting your friends to act out different stories while you discover what your filmmaking style will be.
3. Start Learning Filmmaking from Experts
There are no better people to learn filmmaking from than the people currently in the industry. Jumping into filmmaking school is a comprehensive place to start. After 12 months at this film and television course, you will learn directing, screenwriting, cinematography, and editing under the mentorship of working industry professionals. You will also leave film school with 12 films under your belt. This is not only extremely useful experience but one of these 12 films could be something you market to streaming services or production companies. By diving right into a video production course you get on set experience with top of the line equipment, room for your creativity to flourish, and prepares you for the professional film industry.
Along with this, attending seminars or masterclasses led by industry professionals is a great place to start learning filmmaking. If you are a parks and recreation fan or curious about screenwriting in general, check out this online master class on How to Develop a Comedy Series with Norm Hiscock, a comedy screenwriter for Parks and Recreation, Brooklyn Nine-Nine, and Saturday Night Live. Learning from people who are involved in the industry you want to be in is a great place to start filmmaking for beginners.
4. Volunteer on Set
Any experience you can get on set is a learning experience. When looking at how to start learning filmmaking, volunteering on set is a great choice as not only do you learn best by doing, but you also meet people involved in the industry. Being an eager and hard working volunteer may one day lead to a paid gig or other filmmaking opportunities.
Looking on reddit or other online forums about filmmaking in your area is a great place to find work. As well, you could ask your instructors from film school if they know anyone who is looking for a helping hand on set. Gaining hands-on experience is one of the best ways to figure out what you like to do. Whether that be sound, directing, or post-production, the only way to know if it is for you is to try it!
5. Participate in Filmmaking Challenges
There are various filmmaking challenges out there designed for beginners to get some practice and recognition for their hard work. Importantly, many of them are short film competitions, making them easily accessible for beginners. You can find some of these competitions on FilmFreeway, which also has film festival resources that you can check out. Otherwise, just quickly google search for some short film competitions that are either online or in your area.
6. Network
These previous five starting points can offer you experience and a chance to network. Connect with local aspiring filmmakers to make your first film, watch movies together, and compete in challenges. As well, your instructors and peers at film school are an incredibly valuable resource. The person sitting next to you in your class could be your future business partner! Further, your instructors may pass along news of job opportunities and internships that could be of interest to their students. Never estimate the power of word of mouth!
Overall, we hope that these six tips will be the push you need to start learning filmmaking. All famous filmmakers were sitting where you once were, deciding how to get started. The path to becoming an award-winning filmmaker and seeing your dreams come alive on screen is not a clear cut one. However, with creativity and drive to succeed, there is nothing that can stop you.
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Graphis New Talent Annual 2022 Awards Five InFocus Graphic Design Alumni
Five of our talent students have been featured in the Graphis New Talent Annual 2022! Check out their imaginative and creative designs below.
For new graduates or people new to the graphic design industry can attest it is daunting getting your start. Five of our alumni from our Graphic and Digital Design program, however, have proved that hard work pays off. These five talented graphic designers have been honoured in this year’s Graphis New Talent Annual.
Graphis New Talent Annual awards students who, with help from their esteemed professors, produced polished works during their Graphic Design program. After selection, it is compiled in a book which is available for purchase digitally or in hard copy. The competition is steep – over 1000 submissions from international esteemed art schools.
InFocus is proud of Adrienne Noble, who’s work was awarded gold in the annual. “Finding out that I won GOLD in Graphis Annual’s 2022 New Talent Division was like a huge warm hug from the multiverse!” she said. Her stunning logo will appear in both the hardcover print copies and the digital copy of the annual.
Her logo, shown below, was made in our Adobe Illustrator class with professor Lelia Singleton. “Lelia trusted me and helped to squash my new designer insecurities and imposter syndrome! The InFocus instructors are passionate and caring. They provide a real working knowledge of the tools that are required to succeed as a graphic designer” she said.
After InFocus, Adrienne settled into her own freelance graphic design business called Honey Wolf Creative. “The accelerated program provides students with all the skills they need to leave feeling confident and prepared to start working in the industry upon graduation.”
Four of our other talented alumni received honourable mentions for their work done at InFocus. Renée Bouche created beverage labels called “Respectfull Pints” that call attention to women’s safety and sexual assault. Her “better-believe-her bitter” and “contest-is-sexy stout” boasts 100% of your daily nutritional value of respect! It is no surprise this imaginative and advocative design received an honourable mention.
“This program is designed for the determined and has likely tested you, challenged you and pushed you to your limits. While, you may want to put down the mouse, trackpad, or stylus, have no fear! It won’t be long until your hard work is recognized outside of the classroom.” Renee added. Indeed, her hard work has paid off being recongized this year in the Graphis New Talent Annual!
Another honourable mention came in for Jill Chao-sheng Li who designed a logo for the Van Gogh Museum in Lelia Singleton’s Adobe Illustrator class. “I love how all the instructors just want the best out of us. They are committed and want to teach us everything they know just to see us succeed,” Jill added.
Like many of our other graduates, she has already made a splash in the graphic design industry. She landed a full-time graphic design job 3 months after graduating from the program.
“The class schedule was intense and took real effort to put everything we learned into practice. However, this was an investment I made for myself. It led me to being part of the new talent annual, winning the Indigo Design award, and landing my first full-time graphic design job. I want to attribute it all to InFocus, the instructors and my wonderful classmates. None of this would happen if I didn’t join this program” she said.
Bruno Cunha made a fantastic poster designed in Lelia’s Adobe Illustrator class that would warm any pet lover’s heart! Seeing the creativity intertwine between image, text, and meaning in all the designs that have been chosen is astounding. Calling for more pet-friendly housing in British Columbia, Bruno makes a stance through his design.
Finally, Ángela Núñez Cadenas’s stunning poster and whimsical stationary system designed in Lelia’s Adobe Illustrator class was selected by Graphis. Her poster brings to the forefront sustainability in fashion. As well, her stationary system for the underwater museum make nature and animals come alive on the page.
“Firstly, I learned so much while studying at InFocus film school. I also want to say thank you to Leila because she helped us a lot and pushed us to take part in this competition. The things she taught us and the way she supported us is the reason why we got these awards” Angela said.
Not only does eco-friendly fashion endure, but our students do too! The hard work that our 6 month program expects has paid off with their awards at Graphis New Talent Annual. “It’s encouraging to see this young group entering the real world with the professional skills needed to be successful,” said co-founder and creative director Travis Tatum, of Tatum Designs. After six months, are students are set up for success in the industry.
If you want to learn more about our graphic design program, click here for more information.
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How to Become a Professional Screenwriter
Wondering how to become a professional screenwriter? Keep reading for nine tips on how to get your start in the screenwriting industry.
By: Rachel Kim
So we hear you dream of becoming a professional screenwriter. You’re vibrating with ideas and you ardently long to see your stories come to moving, breathing, audio-visual life. You want your screenplays to join the annals of Oscar winners like Aaron Sorkin’s The Social Network and Bong Joon-Ho’s Parasite or like Quentin Tarantino’s Inglorious Basterds (which didn’t win Best Original Screenplay but was so popular, it was sold as a paperback in bookstores!).
But where do you begin? How do you become a professional screenwriter?
The short answer is with a lot of work and perseverance. But you already knew that. Besides, you have enough passion and coffee to fuel you through it.
If you’re serious about a career in screenwriting, keep reading for the long answer in our guide on how to become a professional screenwriter.
Click here to learn more about InFocus Film School’s Writing for Film and Television Program!
Amateur VS. Professional Screenwriters
All professional screenwriters were once amateurs. In fact, the very best professionals still carry the spark—the love of storytelling and the craft—that they had when they first began. Everything else they learned and developed on the way.
To become a professional screenwriter, it requires certain skills, knowledge, and perception that hobbyists don’t necessarily need. Professionals know how to analyze their own work, see what worked and what didn’t, and adjust their processes to produce better writing. They also know how to accept, evaluate, and use feedback as well as provide constructive feedback for others.
The ability to work collaboratively with others is especially crucial for TV writers who spend most of their time hashing it out as a group in the writer’s room. Get a sneak peak of what happens in a TV writers room here.
How to Become a Professional Screenwriter
1. Master Standard Formatting
If you read the Inglourious Basterds screenplay, you’ll notice interesting quirks and breaks from screenplay conventions. But that’s only allowed because it was written by Quentin Tarantino. Since you aren’t Tarantino, such deviations are only going to hurt your script’s chances of even getting read. It’s best to make standard formatting second nature to you, at least until you hit it big.
2. Sign Up for Masterclasses
Attending a masterclass is a great way to get a taste of structured instruction as well as inspiration from highly-experienced and successful screenwriters in the industry. Many masterclasses (like the upcoming “How to Develop a Comedy Series” masterclass with Emmy-Award winning screenwriter Norm Hiscock) are held online, making them more affordable and accessible for all.
Click here for more information!
3. Join a Writer’s Group
As already said above, a professional writer needs to be able to work with others, whether that means exchanging feedback or working collaboratively on a single project. Writers aren’t exactly known for their social prowess but, like working out a muscle, repeated practice will take you a long way. Joining a group of writers to share your work, give and receive critique, and even offer support in each other’s creative journeys will prepare you for a professional screenwriter’s life.
4. Use Specialized Screenwriting Software
The tool doesn’t make the artist but it can sure make your life easier. Professional screenwriters do create their work in specialized screenwriting software because it makes formatting easier and provides a clean space to write without distractions.
The industry standard software is Final Draft, used by 95% of studios including Netflix, Paramount, ABC, Pixar, and more. Though it is fairly pricey, it only requires a one-time payment and a provides 30-day trial.
Alternate options include:
Maybe your word processor of choice is good enough for you now, but it’s worth learning how to use Final Draft at least so you can confidently integrate into the industry’s practices.
5. Read Screenplays
All writers need to read other works by better writers. As a screenwriter who loves film, it isn’t enough to watch movies. You have to read the screenplays to understand your craft or else you run into the pitfall of writing screenplays that feel off.
For example: dialogue. Dialogue that works too hard to mimic real life, or to mimic the way an actor might deliver it onscreen, doesn’t flow well on the page. Reading and writing have their own conventions and you need a good grasp of them to properly and skillfully engage the reader.
Moreover, it’s important to also read scripts by people who aren’t idiosyncratic auteurs. Get a good feel for the standard screenplay so you aren’t unwittingly copying someone else’s quirk. Remember: if they don’t know you, they won’t know if it’s intentional or a mistake.
6. Write & Rewrite & Rewrite & Rewrite
Okay, so this one is a no-brainer. You’ll get nowhere if you don’t actually write. Write an original pilot, write a screenplay for film, write spec scripts. Write log lines and treatments for your scripts. Don’t stop writing.
But don’t just write first drafts. Rewrite, and then rewrite again, and then rewrite it again. Knowing where to look and how to polish your drafts is crucial to become a professional screenwriter. Plus, with practice, you’ll build up the stamina you need to do those countless rewrites without breaking a sweat.
7. Create a Professional Portfolio
Alright, you’ve written and rewritten and now you’ve got a good pile of completed scripts. It’s time to put together a professional screenwriting portfolio.
Pick out a balanced variety of your BEST original and spec scripts or feature film screenplays. Add in your resume, cover letter, and—if you’re lucky enough to have industry contacts—recommendation letters. Make sure your digital portfolio is easy to navigate and your files are labeled and presented neatly.
8. Submit to Screenwriting Fellowships, Grants, & Competitions
Getting started in the competitive screenwriting field can be hard, especially without connections. However, submitting to programs like the Academy Nicholl Fellowships or the Sundance Screenwriters Lab gives you a chance to get your work produced, secure an agent, receive mentorship, and/or built a network. Check out some screenwriting contests that can launch you career here.
9. Commit to Your Screenwriting Career
Committing to your career means putting your time, energy, and money where your mouth is. Invest in yourself by taking courses, meeting and workshopping with other writers, seeking resources, attending events, or enrolling in a professional screenwriting program. Take your dreams seriously so others will take you seriously too.
Advantages of Attending a Professional Screenwriting Program
Enroling in a film school or a screenwriting course is a big but highly valuable investment. The difference is like journeying down a uneven dirt road versus a paved street. Schools provide the infrastructure in which you can focus on your writing while maintaining a clear understanding of where you need to go.
A proper professional screenwriting education provides:
It’s also worth looking for a screenwriting course like InFocus’ Writing For Film + Television Program that emphasizes a writer’s room environment so students are familiar and comfortable collaborating with other writers and know what to expect before even entering the industry.
Another top asset found in school is your fellow classmates. Your peers will be your first network of screenwriting professionals as you enter the industry together. Creating connections with industry mentors and classmates alike is an invaluable advantage unique to the educational space.
Hopefully you now have a clearer idea of the path to become a professional screenwriter. If you’re considering attending a screenwriting program or even just have questions, our admissions advisors are always happy to chat.
The greatest screenwriters of our time started where you are now, so trust in your passion and invest in yourself. We can’t wait to see you become the next screenwriting superstar!
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3D ANIMATION TRAINING FOR BEGINNERS
Considering 3D Animation training? Look no further – we have six steps to help you make your way in the 3D animation industry!
By: Sophia Lin
The 3D animation industry is booming with the rise of visual effects, the popularity of video games, and advancements like interactive and virtual reality 3D. These developments are all to thank for its recent and projected growth. Across the board, there’s no doubt that 3D animation is the future. But if, like many, you’re looking to get into this lucrative industry, there’s likely one key question you have. How do you start?
Well, that’s what we’re here to tackle. 3D animation is a complex, multi-faceted industry, but getting a start in it doesn’t have to be. In fact, it can be a smooth, clear path to employment
So, if you’re hunting for an all-around guide to breaking in and getting the 3D animation training you need, look no further. We’ve broken it all down into 6 compact steps, so you can take that first leap with no hesitation.
Click here to learn more about InFocus Film School’s 3D Animation and Visual Effects Program
1. Getting Acquainted with the Industry
The first step is to get familiarized with the industry itself. Knowing about its present outlook and its future advancements is very important. This encompasses a thorough knowledge of 3D animation, such as its applications in animated feature films, video games, and live-action films. Not to mention, it’s worthwhile to get a feel for the general daily tasks of a 3D animator. This involves substantial initial research, blocking out poses, and refining character movements.
Beyond that, you should aim for a cursory understanding of the animating process. It’s quite a technically rigorous procedure, with many steps requiring various types of 3D animation training. Many specialists are involved — first to model the character, then rig it with bones, skin weights, and constraints, and finally animate it.
2. Know the Job Market
The second course of action is to gain an understanding of the current job market and what’s in store. For instance, 3D animation jobs are, at the moment, more abundant than ever. This sector is predicted to continue a promising upward trend in the decades to come. It’s key to understand the underlying drivers as well. In this case, the aforementioned considerations like video games and VFX contribute, with digital streaming acting as a foremost factor.
Equally crucial is building a knowledge of the expanding uses of 3D animation. Today, 3D animation is used in many Hollywood films and live-action movies. When it comes to live-action films, the work of a 3D animator can appear in many forms. 3D animators can create something as small animated animal and others the size of buildings — think Godzilla.
3. Get A Hold of Software
To begin any sort of 3D animation training, having software is a must. Thankfully, an assortment of possibilities is out there, for a variety of aims and interests. The industry-standard software is Autodesk Maya, commonly just called Maya. It features a powerful toolset and top-of-the-line animation tools. For those aiming to do animation professionally, this is the best choice. It is excellent for anything from motion graphics to environments to character creation.
In terms of the costs, Maya has a monthly fee, but students can access it for free. Another well-known and versatile software is Blender, a free, open-source program that features its fair share of functionalities as well. Yet another option is Autodesk 3ds Max, which is designed for creating professional 3D animations and design visualizations. Like Maya, the software requires a paid subscription, however, it is also free for students.
4. Take Relevant 3D Animation Training Courses
Like any fast-paced industry, effective learning and up-to-date knowledge are fundamental components of a successful career. Perhaps unsurprisingly, most of the successful, working 3D animators today are funnelled in from some type of relevant course, most typically through film school connections.
Some courses specializing in 3D animation can be taken online or purchased via various platforms — they are often taken on your own time, with no live professors. Another option is a formal 3D animation training program at a film school. These courses provide you with an array of animation resources, as well as mentorship and networking opportunities. For a highly technical field like animation, working with industry-experienced professionals gives aspiring 3D animators a leg up. Not only do they have a wide array of connections, but also a mastery of current industry standards in 3D animation. Because many of them work while being instructors, they have a wide breath of knowledge in the industry. And don’t be daunted by the commitment — some schools have one-year programs, designed for students to enter the industry right away.
5. Understand Different 3D Animation Roles
Part of what makes the world of animation so diverse and multi-disciplinary is the substantial assortment of positions that 3D animators can take on. As someone looking to find their place in the industry, it’s essential to get a grasp of what’s out there before you dive in. Starting with more entry-level jobs, there are junior concept artists, who experiment with ideas and create the first sketches of a project. A more popular one is a junior animator. They brainstorm ideas, research a character’s motion, and refine the quality of overall animations.
Moving up in the ranks, you have jobs like character animators and props animators. These are the people who develop characters and render props assets, respectively. Other top jobs consist of character riggers, 3D modellers, effects animators, render wrangler, and the list goes on and on. These positions, however, require higher levels of 3D animation training, coupled with reliable experience in the specific field.
6. Build A Network
When you are first getting started, it is important to make contacts in the industry. This can happen anywhere and anytime, so long as you reach out, stay proactive, and keep in touch. To begin, this can look like hopping on relevant online groups and forums. You could also join learning groups, or try tutorials. One route that works for both your network and your craft is sharing your work online and asking for feedback. You will not only grow and learn, but you will make yourself known to your fellow animators.
It may not be duly evident, but the people you offer some help to or strike up a conversation with will be the collaborators, supporters, and mentors helping you down the line. As a beginner, those in your local animation scene will be glad to guide you, having been in the very same place themselves. So, go to events, screenings, and festivals, ask all your questions, and put yourself out there!
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6 WAYS TO MAKE YOUR FILM FESTIVAL SUBMISSION STAND OUT
Applying or planning to apply to film festivals? Read on to find out 6 key ways to make your film festival submission stand out.
By: Sophia Lin
Every year, thousands apply to film festivals. From film students to aspiring filmmakers to industry veterans it’s a rapidly growing number. The festival circuit remains the premier way to get your film out there. It is a chance to secure distribution, and reach awards consideration, serving as the ideal fast track to a successful and illustrious career in the film industry.
However, it can seem like a daunting task to make your film festival submission stand out. While there’s no perfect recipe for a winning submission, there are several critical ways to make your film — be it anything from a micro-short to a feature — win the hearts of festival programmers. Well-informed considerations regarding festival strategy, technical proficiency, submission descriptions, and more can make all the difference when it comes down to the fine line between rejection and selection.
Below, we’ve detailed 6 ways to make your film festival submission stand out, tailored specifically to film students looking to catch their first big break.
Click here to learn more about InFocus Film School’s Film Production Program!
1. Be Yourself and Be Unique to Make Your Film Festival Submission Stand Out
Perhaps deceptively simple, the first goal you can undertake is to remain authentic and pursue the stories that you truly believe are worth telling. Hone in on what makes you different and idiosyncratic; focus on what you have to say. If you eschew making the film that you think festivals want and instead make the film you want, it leads to one crucial quality: a unique vision.
An untold number of applicants either consciously or subconsciously create within a common mold, with the intention of replicating what a good film appears to be. When you think outside of the box and create in a way that only you can create, it leaves a lasting impression on festival programmers. They are looking for new voices, untold stories, and risk-takers who advance the craft of filmmaking.
2. Demonstrate Proficiency in Sound
All too often, applicants tend to focus solely on a few aspects: the story, the cinematography, the acting, and the editing. And while these certainly serve as the backbone of a film, there is one equally important factor that is left mostly forgotten and quickly thrown together: the sound.
Technical proficiency when it comes to sound mixing and sound editing can separate the good and the great. Excellent sound design, if paired with an otherwise well-executed film, is more than likely to shoot your submission to the top in the eyes of festival directors. These days, believe it or not, sound is the pivotal secret ingredient at times overlooked by even the best of rising filmmakers.
3. Research Festivals Carefully
It may seem obvious, but conducting research on film festivals is not as easy as it sounds. For one, the sheer amount of festivals has compounded in the last decade, with as many as 10,000 festivals on FilmFreeway. So how do you sort through the mix?
The first step is to look into the festival’s past programming. Use this to examine if they’re looking for your particular type of film. Festivals can have different themes, such as experimental, documentary, or conventional narrative. Next, understand the level of the festival: is it A-list and international, regional, or a smaller local one? Ensure that this makes sense with your submission. Especially for new filmmakers, informed festival choices will greatly maximize your chances of selection. From there, you can then start to work up the ladder!
4. Reach Out to Festival Programmers
The old adage is to network, network, network. We’re here to break that idea down a bit. Rather than attempting to mass connect with as many industry insiders as you can, it can be much more productive to conduct directed efforts to reach only the programmers for the film festivals you’re interested in.
The individual goals of festivals are meant to be distinctly separate from one another. Therefore, festival directors and programmers tend to differ hugely in terms of what they look for. For instance, you would rarely catch overlaps between the films at Sundance vs. at the Cannes Film Festival. For that reason, reach out to specific people and apply their advice on a festival-to-festival basis. This is also an excellent way to get your name out there, even before your film is considered.
5. Consider Model Festival Strategies
Creating your own developed festival circuit strategy — the precise timing, order, and selection of festivals — can take years of experience, not to mention precarious amounts of trial and error. If you’re just starting out, am alternative is to research the festival strategies of successful films you admire.
When in the year did they begin submissions? How spread out were their submissions? What was their endgame in the circuit? Then, once you’ve pinpointed the strong and weak points, model your own film’s festival strategy after it. Remember that a submission shouldn’t be the end of your efforts. You should also seek to build your network in a way that meshes with your festival strategy.
6. Polish Title, Synopsis, and Descriptions
A common trait of standout film festival submissions is that no detail is left unpolished. This could not be more true for one of the smallest yet most crucial details out there: the text that is paired with your film. Every festival will ask for a title and a synopsis, with many leaving room for additional descriptions.
At the very least, perfect your title. Countless films are submitted with generic, overused titles, which unnecessarily and disastrously harm even the most exceptional works. The title is how you make your first impression and make your film festival submission stand out, so use it to your full advantage. Following that same logic, any other text descriptions should be just as thoughtfully written. You’ve poured all the hard work into your film, now, just put your best foot forward.
These six steps are a great start in making your film festival submission stand out against the competition. Most importantly, stick to the stories you want to tell through filmmaking and share them with the world.
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A Career as a Director: 8 Directing Tips from Filmmaker James Genn
Want to a career as a director but do not know how to get there? Here are eight directing tips from award-winning filmmaker James Genn.
By: Sophia Lin
One of the most highly coveted jobs in the film industry is none other than the top job on set: directing. The remarkable level of creativity, the expression of personal vision, and the opportunity for collaborative leadership are just a few of the numerous aspects that make many dream of having a career as a director.
For student filmmakers, however, it can be an aspiration that seems daunting, or simply too far off. That’s one of the many myths we’ll debunk here — anyone who sets their mind to it can direct. But, the more advice and insight you can gain, the better off you’ll be to set forth on the unique, enthralling path that a career as a director offers.
So take it from award-winning Canadian director James Genn, as he extends his most essential tips for directing both film and TV, across a diverse range of genres from comedy to horror. The recipient of Genie Award, Gemini Award, and Canadian Screen Award nominations, his work has been screened at festivals all around the world, including the Toronto International Film Festival. Most recently, he’s directed episodic TV content for the likes of Disney+, Hulu, and CBC.
Below, find nuanced, personal tips from a director who has not only had over decades of directing experience, but has created and continues to create some of the finest work in Canada and beyond. Keep reading to see how you can start your career as a director and make fantastic films.
Click here to learn more about InFocus Film School’s Film Production Program!
1. Focus on Your Work
Filmmakers often find that they have to surreptitiously juggle two worlds: the purely creative facets of film and the unavoidable business side of the industry. Those who focus on a love of the craft and nurture a singular mission to create exceptional work, notes Genn, are the ones who truly do well.
As he emphasizes, “The agent doesn’t come before the work. Your job is to do work — do great work — and do the best you can and learn from your mistakes. Eventually, when your work starts getting seen by people and it reaches a certain level, then, trust me, the agents will come to you.”
2. Connect with the Audience
“When you’re working on a moment to moment, beat to beat, choice by choice basis, it’s really about how you are connecting to an audience,” says Genn. “How are you communicating ideas to an audience and making them feel something?”
The object of directing can be manifold, but one of the most important aims should be human connection. Though this certainly can demand a delicate counterbalance with personal and artistic expression, serving the audience should remain a staple of your work.
“As I’ve grown and matured as a director, it’s switched to becoming not about an expression of yourself, but about communicating ideas to somebody else. And the audience is first,” he adds.
3. Build Long-Lasting Relationships
As the saying goes, Hollywood is built on relationships. And that couldn’t be closer to the truth. Genn has maintained a close, career-long relationship with his first agent, who remains his agent still to this day.
“The one thing I can’t stress enough is that you build relationships and you stick to them,” he advises. “Your whole career is about relationship building. The people that you meet along the way and the type of vibe you bring to your work. Make that good and enjoyable for people, and they’ll keep calling you.”
4. Be Tenacious
“The tenacity worked. It took a long time, but eventually, I had done enough work that people had to listen to me. I was there, I hadn’t gone away,” Genn reflects.
In a fast-changing, ever-growing industry like film, staying tenacious is a key quality that leads to success. The name of the game is to keep at it — start out by volunteering on sets and working as a PA, and remain steadfast as you work your way up the ladder.
He adds, “The people who know how to communicate well, collaborate well, understand other people’s needs, and respect the value of every single person working on the crew and the cast equally — those are the people who are going to do really well.”
5. Take Responsibility
When it comes to responsibility, the stance a director has can have ripple effects across the entire cast and crew. This sets the tone for collaboration and interaction on set. As a result, a shift in mindset can be the crucial, defining difference between those who make it and those who don’t.
“The great directors I know, they take responsibility for everything they do,” Genn reveals. “They don’t sit around blaming the PA because they’ve broken something and they can’t get their shot. Everything that they do is their responsibility, no matter what the circumstances are. And they take that responsibility very personally. That’s how their work goes from being just work to being exceptional work.”
6. Manage Your Stress
“As a director, you have to live and die by decisions you’re making all day long,” Genn discloses. “It’s the stress of knowing that if you’re trying to shoot too much for the scene in the morning, then the scene you’re going to shoot in the afternoon, you’re going to rush the actors or you’re going to have to cut the shots down. So on a macro level, you really have to learn to manage your stress very well.”
Directing involves decisive leadership and vision, and often, many don’t fully consider the stress that may come with that. The key, however, is to decide and let it go. As Genn advises, “Don’t fuss about the things you can’t control and work very hard on the things that you can.”
7. Embrace Challenges
Pursuing a career as a director can sometimes feel like a great leap of faith. However, the secret to overcoming this lies right within you. Genn’s advice is, with your passion as your guide, wholeheartedly embrace the challenges that come your way.
“When you’re on a film crew at any level and you look around you, you see a lot of people that are there for the same reasons you are. And we connect to that. It’s a pretty hard thing to resist,” he explains. “You’ll sacrifice a lot of things in your life, including the daunting feeling of it, the challenge of it, because the reward of it is so great and the work that you do is so interesting. If it was too easy, it wouldn’t be quite as fun, right?”
8. Dedicate Yourself To A Career As A Director
“There’s a big difference between being able to just direct something and being able to direct something exceptional. And making something stand out takes a tremendous amount of effort and work,” Genn remarks. “It takes you sitting down at home and imagining ten different ways that some single scene, or beat, or moment in something you’re making can be done.”
Dedication is known to separate the great from the ordinary, and directing is no different. The amount of sheer hard work and thought you put into your craft will show. Therefore, the more you put in, the better.
He concludes, “Your job is to make things work at all costs. You find a way to apply your talents to a variety of genres, a variety of voices, and you learn how to do it better than anyone else.”
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Parks and Recreation Writer Norm Hiscock Talks About Becoming A Comedy Screenwriter
Wondering if screenwriting is for you? Get to know Canadian screenwriter Norm Hiscock writer for Parks and Recreation, Saturday Night Live, and Brooklyn Nine-Nine!
By: Kennedy Randall
Screenwriting is a hugely challenging and exciting profession. The writers play an essential role in any project that you see on screen. They are the brains behind the story that is making you feel emotion. Comedy writers are tasked with the difficult task of making diverse audiences laugh at the same program.
Norm Hiscock is an Emmy Award winning screenwriter who has written episodes for some of the funniest TV comedies like Parks and Recreation, Brooklyn Nine-Nine, Saturday Night Live, King of the Hill and many more. As well, he has dabbled in directing and producing on many of these series. This experience has given him incredible insider knowledge of the film industry that he will be sharing with InFocus during his “How to Develop A Comedy Series” masterclass with InFocus Film School.
Click here to register!
Norm Hiscock grew up in Montreal, Quebec. At a young age, he found his inspiration to become a screenwriter by watching sitcoms and sketch shows while he was growing up. Sketch comedy consists of short amusing scenes or vignettes and he wanted to know more about the people who wrote the shows
“Even though I didn’t really understand what a writer did, it just seemed cool that creatively the script was the blueprint and this sparked other people’s imagination,” he says.
His first writing job was on the Canadian sketch show Kids In The Hall, which was a mix of short films and taped live in front of an audience. When Kids In The Hall was done, the producer from the show, Lorne Michaels, brought Hiscock over to write for Saturday Night Live with him which was a huge accomplishment in his career.
After working on so many award winning shows, Hiscock has learned many valuable lessons while on set. In 1999, Norm Hiscock won the “Outstanding Animated Program” Emmy Award for working as a producer and writer on King of The Hill.
“I learned how to write for different kinds of comedy voices and the importance of collaboration,” he says. “King of the Hill also taught me what elements contribute to a good story and how to fully develop characters, even if they are animated.”
On Parks and Recreation, Hiscock found keeping a set loose and fun was important to the experience of shooting Parks and Recreation. Working with Ron Swanson (played by Nick Offerman) would do that!
“On the set of Parks and Recreation, including the actors in the development of the characters on set was very important to the story overall” he added.
Other than being a good writer and having a good story to tell, a screenwriter should feel comfortable rewriting.
“Rewriting is the most important skill and a writer should not be afraid of doing this,” he says. “By rewriting you can sharpen the focus of the story and layer it through character.”
Norm Hiscock will be sharing his wisdom and much more as a guest speaker at InFocus Film School’s three public masterclass seminars from April and July. Norm Hiscock is looking forward to talking about screenwriting with those looking to take their storytelling skills to the next level.
Click here to learn more about InFocus Film School’s Writing for Film and Television Program!
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How To Use A Walkie On Set – A Complete Guide
Almost everyone on set will be using a walkie and they are pretty simple to use. Compared to a Smart Phone, they are child’s play – you press the button to speak, you take your finger off the button to listen. But on set, this technical simplicity is offset by specific etiquette and language regarding their use, which can take some getting use to. Not knowing the protocols can result in embarrassing rookie mistakes, poor communication and will make you look unprofessional. So here’s a quick primer on how to use a walkie like a pro:
First, something to keep in mind: When directing, Clint Eastwood’s sets are very calm and orderly. This is because Eastwood once attended a White House dinner and had been impressed by the barely audible use of walkies by the Secret Service agents who were carrying out complex duties. Traditionally walkie use on set meant an incessant squawking of open mics but Eastwood pushed his crew to use them with the same subtly as those secret service agents making for a much quieter working environment. So when using your walkie, think secret service! These devices are an extremely useful aid to effective communication, but they should NOT create additional noise or irritation. An orderly, efficient set is the target here.
Click here to learn more about InFocus Film School’s Film Production Program!
The Elements of a Walkie
Standard Ear Plug
Custom Ear Mold
How To Wear Your Walkie
Firing It Up
How To Use A Walkie – Quick Tips
Off or On?
Too Quiet?
Which Channel?
Channel 6: Usually assigned to transportation for the shuttle vehicle drivers
When you are done talking on on channel 2, then both of you will separately confirm “Switching back to 1” (or whichever channel you are heading back to)
Speak to Me!
Don’t Do This! (Accidental Transmissions):
“Cueing” a walkie means that someone has pressed their talk button without being aware of it. This means they are accidentally transmitting (like pocket dialling a phone). It’s a serious issue as it effectively shuts down all walkie communications until they stop transmitting.
It can be caused by a number of things. Inadvertently something may be pressing against the walkie button (a bulky jacket or leaning against something etc.) Or the walkie button may be “sticky” and doesn’t release after being pressed, due to a spill or some matter has worked it’s way into the mechanism. It can also sometimes be caused by plugging a headset into the jack when the walkie is already on (hence I mentioned above to plug the headset in before you switch the walkie on).
Cueing must be solved quickly as it can be extremely embarrassing for the person who is transmitting (imagine for a moment you go to the bathroom, drop your pants, your walkie is somewhere under there and accidentally gets switched on… it happens! Or you are chatting to another crew member about what you did last night or who you did last night as your walkie presses against your chair back…). But your embarrassment is secondary to the fact that you are blocking all other transmissions and the set is at a standstill while they listen to all that.
To avoid cueing be aware of the condition and placement of your walkie. Plus if you are going to do or say anything that should be kept private, then let your supervisor know that you will be off walkie for those few moments. If you hear someone else is cued, try and identify who it is and their location as quickly as possible. Find them and turn their walkie off until they can resolve the problem.
This may seem a lot to remember, but you will learn how to use a walkie pretty quickly. Because the rest of the crew will be using these protocols, and you will find it will soon become habit.
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