Coincidentally, I just watched a movie with an amazing quote. "Follow excellence and success will chase you". It's a Hindi film called 3 idiots. The protagonist was telling his friends not to worry about getting rich or a good job, just focus on developing their skills and the rest will fall in place.
This just shook me. In the past 3 years I’ve started a production company, took it full time, made real money and then some and lately I’ve been struggling with that “imposter syndrome”. But that’s probably because I call myself a film maker but I spend my days dealing with clients, responding to emails, and drumming up new business. “You are what you do everyday”, I call myself a film maker but I feel more like an entrepreneur because I spend more time doing business growing stuff. Maybe spend 7 days a month actually film making. I gotta do something to get more film making into my day to day. Thanks for this insight brother 👌🏼
10 no budget films in 20 years. Still going. 2 features in the can, and I plan to make 4 this year. It's all about the story. Never went to film school. And yes, I almost quit, but the only reason I didn't is because I saw growth in my skills. I hope my legacy is 100 movies made. Judge me then, udig. Great video. onelove.
ksmoothe I definitely feel this.... I wanted to quit a few times but this is my passion and I love doing it. It’s not going to come easy.... So i’m glad u didn't quit
Solid advice. Wish some of my filmmaker pen pals would Heavily Re-Consider how they shoot the money hose at huge overhead prices they face, talking 2.5K to 10K on a short film that doesn't net money let alone generate revenue. I know it's tough but the more indie filmmakers can learn the technical side, it'll pay back in the long term I swear. My earliest shorts were the most expensive for so little that got on screen vs. as time continues my budgets get lower yet 'more gets on the screen'. Wishing everyone well on their journeys. Great channel Darious-- your gems have made me a better filmmaker since I started tuning in back in 2013.
Your videos are so right on - the biggest blocks to creating aren't lack of money or gear, it's your brain telling you "I can't make this film because I lack..." Conceive and execute! The only definition I make is when some calls themself a "professional". A professional to me is someone who pays the bills with imaging - nothing more.
This is why going to film school was 100% the right move for me. I now have so many friends who want to make films and deadlines to force me to write/shoot/edit when I would otherwise give in to writer’s block or any other mental hurdle and put it off for weeks.
Im glad I see your stuff around on youtube. You have real eye opening insights for everyone interested in getting into the film industry. I just hope and pray I make it. Recently got into Film School and I’m really working hard to do the best I can
1:00 "You just have to do the thing!" The key to getting going on anything, regardless of whether it's being a filmmaker or getting in shape, is showing up and doing the work. Forget about whether you're GOOD at it, "good" will come on its own as you "do the thing!"
I think this is one of your best videos yet. It applies even to those who are not aiming to become a paid film maker, but who simply want to make films for their own pleasure, for family or non-paid community projects. The most important lesson comes from your statement: shoot, shoot some more and keep shooting even more.
I don't allow things like budget, gear or lack of crew and actors prevent me from making films. But I definitely need to take my time when it comes to deciding on which story I want to tell next. I want to make sure I have a full grasp on my narrative before diving into production. I think that's super important.
This video gave me an extra push to continue to my next project. I've been working on other peoples' films for some time, but the last film I directed was last year and I feel like I've been pulled back by my own anxieties: about getting the film right, producing the right script, deciding which script is worth producing more, getting the right people, getting the right camera, worried that my films won't be good enough for festivals, constantly wondering if I'm even good enough, etc. I want to push myself to produce more films, especially as a writer-director so I can get myself out there more, and just have more confidence in my abilities. Thanks!
I was a Filmmaker for a several years (doing UA-cam skits and short films), but I came to realize, while I loved acting and directing, I enjoyed the actual writing process a whole lot more. So I switched my focus from filmmaking to screenwriting. Now I'm working on honing my Craft and hopefully in the future I'll be able to sell a spec and work in animation (my great love). Great video man. A lot of what you said can apply to just about anything one wants to pursue, definitely gave me food for thought with writing.
What you are saying is so true. I have made so many films solo ( some without any actor) in my first years as a filmmaker that helped me develop my skills. I consider my filmmaking a hobby, not a career. But I still do about two projects a year as a director and one to three as a director of photography.
You're definitely speaking facts in this video. When I was in film school I had a conceit that I wouldn't do anything other than narrative films, but then when I lost access to school resources after that, I realized I had to do other stuff to keep my skills sharp and remain a filmmaker.
Definitely needed to see this video today. I kind of stopped dead in my tracks on the pre-production phase of my first short film back in August because I was waiting on money/gear and I let that stop me from doing anything. And then a whole bunch of other stuff in my personal life went down and that halted my progress again. But after watching this I'm going to start writing a new draft of my script and push forward. Thanks.
Thank you for opening my eyes to the endless possibilities of doing whatever it takes to make the Short/Feature Film happen, Regardless of letting the limitations on some of the things we do or don't have affect us because of the challenges some of us Filmmakers may have more than others. In other words, You are right. We should not make excuses based upon the fact that most if not all of us Filmmakers, Let the lack of resources stop us from doing what we should be doing; Be more thoughtful in being more creative on working around the obstacles and challenges brought by the lack of Time, Resources, Cast & Crew, and Money. We should embrace the resources we do have(Even if it is small) to not only use for the hell of it, But to keep on learning from the overall experience/struggle and to adapt to whatever problem that lay before us and to never give up. I know this is a lot to read Lol , But what I want to say is Thank You Darious for your Kick-Ass, yet Inspirational Advice. I appreciate the content you put out and what you do for us, The Up-N-Coming Beginner Filmmakers. This video really gave the inspiration and motivation to make films regardless of how big or how small it is. And to never use the lack of one resource or another stop us but instead to go out and try while learning and being patient putting in the hours necessary to fail and to become better. Once again, Thank You Bro and I'll always be honored to watch your future content/remaining to be a true fan of your channel. B-Mac OUT!
I feel like we’ve all heard these things but we all hold off from putting these things in action! I justify not making personal projects because I don’t think I’m ready and it’s too expensive. I hated the way my last short film turned out. But now, I have more than enough equipment to film and really no excuses except needing a couple bucks to film it! I needed to hear this
right on point with Everything sir! great blog. If you want to be a filmmaker, just jump in the pool, try it and work at it everyday. Do NOT wait for something that may never come!!!
You're right Darius. FUCK! the budget! Get people to help make a film and compensate them with food and credits. But it's up them to decide if they're serious. Make your film with the resources that you have. You want to be discovered and be introduced and building connections. I did that a lot when I founded my own film company and now I'm connected with people and far as Hollywood.
Totally feelin ya, definitely dealing with GAS, but then I grab the camera and say “I’m going to film .......? 🤷🏼♂️Well maybe a vlog? Ok on....???” How does one break the writers/filmers block? Like, I’ve collected up tons of gear, but as a 1 man band no friends, fam, etc. im like ok now lower the expectations but still nothing, I’m sick of this, I want to shoot every day and end up right back on here (UA-cam) searching for the past 6 months. Looking at a bunch of gear, & now a newly acquired pile of books about creativity and videography but still holding onto my (rigged out GH5) camera like🤷🏼♂️🤦♂️...”so uhh.... well🤔....ok I’ll shoot a...... crap can’t think of anything” so I go watch more of these videos trying to find inspiration. I want to practice to get better cause I hate how ‘home videoish’ my footage looks, as I want to get up to that pro ‘look’ but I feel I’m just slipping backwards due to this block!? Any HELP!?
This is top advice which I've followed for the last year now. I've made 22 shorts in the last year, all of varying quality but I always feel if I'm creating then I'm learning
I agree with every point you make. At the same time, I'm guilty of some of them. A gear trap is the easiest to fall into and even though I was always aware of it I let the gear stop me from starting my own YT channel earlier. I used to teach people how to edit photos using Lightroom and Photoshop and saw so many people with $5000 cameras that didn't know what ISO is.
You are very correct!! I see/view a lot of content where guys/gals are using their friends & family because they all want that 15mins lol. So if you have some gear and a good/decent editing program you can create shorts/reality tv etc with little to no MONEY!! Get better at it, build a following, and then move to the next level.
Thank you for this vlog it helped me mentally to just do it.. I’m in filmmaking school for my BS but I really only want to make music videos I been collecting cameras, lenses, gimbals etc but haven’t shot a video yet lol
What you said about equipment was spot on. Granted, I try to get the bare minimum. Like I just got my first focus puller and a rod system for my camera equipment. Hell, I still use my Rebel T5i for filming both my movie reviews and short films. If the weather wasn’t so bad outside, I could do a mini documentary on my favorite high school teacher.
Your page is extremely inspiring. I am looking to transition from retail to film making with no film school. You are literally my professor. Thank you 🙏🏾✊🏾
Me and my friends have been making films for about 3 years ish. None of us are professionals or anything, I mean, we use are smartphones as camera's and have an okay green screen. But we improve every time we make a film. We have about 10 films now and we always have fun and have definitely gotten better. So yes, you don't need anything fancy. D4 knows what he's talking about!😉
I feel you on this. I don't understand filmmakers who don't shoot. I can't afford that Black Magic 4k camera that I want... so I shoot short sci-fi films with the original Google Pixel. I try to shoot something every 3-4 weeks to improve on my craft. I hope the progress is obvious..lmao.
I seem to keep coming back to this video every time the weight of being a filmmaker is too heavy. This S#@T keeps me motivated. I am ready to grind for ten more years now! Thanks for the content man.
Thanks for the inspiration. I make short films and parodies on my iPhone with my son. We just like making movies. One day we will get more gear, but I agree, just go out there and do it. Checkout our Home Alone Parody with a Twist and our ET movie parody. We even got the kids to fly on their bikes.
Darious For some of us "waiting for money" is a thing, for example for me I have only one camera.....it was bought new in 1992 and uses 8mm Hi Def video tape. So it isn't even like it records in digital even though it does, and also includes a mode to record in 16:1 ratio. BUT I have been literally "waiting for money" for years, because the thing takes video tape, video tape mind you I seldom have money to buy a supply of!! Secondly when I bought it new, it uses a "special connection" to attach it to a computer known as "Firewire" OR what is called an IEEE 1394 port, that at the time was only available on more "high end" computers!! It literally took me 12 years before I could afford to buy a computer with this connector on it, just so I could actually EDIT the videos I was recording at the time....and then as soon as I could afford the computer I needed everybody in the computer industry STOPPED using the IEEE 1394 format and went to full digital and SD cards, and NOW those cameras cost $500 for a decent one, and I just DO NOT have the money coming in to both "pay my bills" and swing "buying another new camera" at the same time!!! Then there are other costs too, like lighting, audio recorders and things like SD cards and again "high end computers" that can process video data!! All this "costs money" even here in the real world, and some people just don't have a money tree growing in our back yards!! Then again many of us get into the "dead end loop" you go to work to make money, and find that you only earn enough money to pay your bills, just so you are broke by the day you get paid because you paid your bills and the hard you work, the more money you make and the more your bills seem to want more of your money and around and around and around you go!!! By the end you are spending 80 hours a week at your low pay dead end job, earning no real "actual" extra money, and you are wasting so much time at work that you have no time for anything else, even if you wanted to be a film maker instead!! And then your trade off is you can't quit your job because you NEED that money to pay your bills, but you have to give up your film making ideas because you don't have time to shoot the video footage you want or need either, because you are literally waiting for money and spending ALL your time at work instead anyhow!! Thus is the loop completed!!! And every year it makes it harder to find a decent camera, because every year comes out a new "better" equipment, that is now $100 more than last years model which is STILL probably out of your price range, and no matter how many videos you do make, when nobody is paying you for your hard work as a film maker ON TOP of your already soul sucking job, it ends up you are still waiting to make money to buy better equipment that never seems to happen or come along when you need it too!! And the same thing happened to my with my own business when I would do a job for somebody thinking I was going to earn $500 extra building somebody a deck, only to have the people tell me "What is we only gave you $500 to build it?" and you start looking at the materials and realize you CAN NOT build a $1500 deck for just $500 unless they expect YOU to buy their materials for them!!! A lot of cheap bastards out in this world anymore, that think your time is worth nothing and that YOU OWE THEM for things that THEY should be paying for themselves!! After all it isn't YOUR deck you are building or YOUR shed they want made!! BUT everybody wants you to eat the costs of the labor or the materials, even in film making, as though you can make video tape or audio recording equipment out of thin air!! Or in my case they assumed I owned both a lumber yard AND a hardware store, I could just steal parts from!! And in the end I have spent years "waiting for money" money to buy tools, money needed for a better workshop and money for equipment and materials!!! Things are not always cheap, rather you are talking about video cameras or lumber, and tools don't just appear out of thin air!!! This isn't Star Trek and I can't just walk up to my personal replicator and demand a Go Pro Hero, and a Drill Press and "poof" they appear!!! In my case I have to work, and work hard to earn money and save it literally for YEARS until I can afford "basic things" like a new computer for example! Heck my last computer took me 12 years of saving to earn enough money to buy the parts to build it!! And every time I think I will have the money to buy a new more modern video camera either I am hit with another bill that needs to be paid or my car needs a new part to fix it, or my dog has to have a vet appointment that sets me back $200 a pop!! So "waiting for money" to some of us is a very REAL thing!!!!!
loved this one, ive recently slowed down when it comes to making videos because i felt like i needed a crew and some actors to really set my projects off (i mainly do music videos and have been solo on every shoot since i started)
Thanks for making so many helpful videos. The first time I watched one of your videos a few months ago I didn't know what an f stop was now I am running full manual and thinking of shooting raw and color grading in the near future.
To be honest I've been feeling the struggle. This video is definitely what I needed to hear. A film I just watched recently was made for just around $8k and was excellent. I think I needed this kick in the ass to restart my journey.
It's important to note that a low or no budget can help you in a way, it can make you more inventive and creative when I make films they're out of my pocket and I don't get that money back at all, it's just what I want to do, money can't stop you from making a good filmmaker, lack of creativity and ingenuity can stop you from making a good film.
These are websites that have most of the festivals and you can submit from there. -Film Freeway - most popular now. -Short Film Depot - lowest costs on some festivals. If you are wondering which festivals are worth applying to you can check the Recognised Festivals List on BAFTA and The Academy’s websites. There are A-tier, B-tier and so on!
You r not a filmmaker- •If you're waiting for money to begin. •If you're waiting for the right gear or equipments. •If you're waiting for crew. •If you're waiting for actors. I am not waiting for any of them..And so, i am a filmmaker. Hehe😉
Great advice I am a aspiring actor and I wrote a script for a Star Wars fan film I’m thinking of making just idk how im gonna act in it and direct it tho
Always come to your channel when I need THAT PUSH... gotta admit I've been falling into the "gas" category"... Its a thing, for real. Thanks for your videos!
Coincidentally, I just watched a movie with an amazing quote. "Follow excellence and success will chase you". It's a Hindi film called 3 idiots. The protagonist was telling his friends not to worry about getting rich or a good job, just focus on developing their skills and the rest will fall in place.
Cool man! I liked it!
True that! Indeed
Yes it's a great movie, I'm from India,.
Appreciate hearing this dude. I’ve let myself down at times with not making films as much as I used to, but I needed to hear this. Nice one mate
This just shook me. In the past 3 years I’ve started a production company, took it full time, made real money and then some and lately I’ve been struggling with that “imposter syndrome”. But that’s probably because I call myself a film maker but I spend my days dealing with clients, responding to emails, and drumming up new business.
“You are what you do everyday”, I call myself a film maker but I feel more like an entrepreneur because I spend more time doing business growing stuff. Maybe spend 7 days a month actually film making. I gotta do something to get more film making into my day to day.
Thanks for this insight brother 👌🏼
10 no budget films in 20 years. Still going. 2 features in the can, and I plan to make 4 this year. It's all about the story. Never went to film school. And yes, I almost quit, but the only reason I didn't is because I saw growth in my skills. I hope my legacy is 100 movies made. Judge me then, udig. Great video. onelove.
ksmoothe I definitely feel this.... I wanted to quit a few times but this is my passion and I love doing it. It’s not going to come easy.... So i’m glad u didn't quit
@@RikaEStudios you're inspiration, brother. keep grinding/shining. never give up. onelove.
ksmoothe lol i’m a female but thank u
@@RikaEStudios my bad. I can't see the thumbnail on my phone lol keep shining 😀
@johnny walker I have three of my old movies ( 2001-2014) on my channel. Please check them out. Uploading more soon.
Great video. D4 that quote is brilliant. I’m putting “you are what you do every day” on my wall so I’m always reminded.
Always great advice and great content. Maybe one day I'll be able to entice Professor D to do a course over at my university? :)
That would be incredible!
Kev-Kev. I almost missed your comment. I've been working on a couple courses. We should chat later. See you at NAB.
@@D4Darious No problem. Yeah, let's chat for sure. NAB - absolutely! :)
I just stumbled on your page a while ago been watching and learning ever since. Thanks
Get a camera, tripod, microphone. Done. ☕
Next? Get a computer to edit and grade.
may even skip the tripod. it is useful, very useful but not a must
@@agaw1845 True. But a tripod is a must, trust me -- if you want well framed steady shots.
Davinci resolve is a good free editing software.
@Atash AB Practice with, and without.
I swear I was having this conversation with my DP friend 3 nights ago
Solid advice. Wish some of my filmmaker pen pals would Heavily Re-Consider how they shoot the money hose at huge overhead prices they face, talking 2.5K to 10K on a short film that doesn't net money let alone generate revenue. I know it's tough but the more indie filmmakers can learn the technical side, it'll pay back in the long term I swear. My earliest shorts were the most expensive for so little that got on screen vs. as time continues my budgets get lower yet 'more gets on the screen'. Wishing everyone well on their journeys. Great channel Darious-- your gems have made me a better filmmaker since I started tuning in back in 2013.
Your videos are so right on - the biggest blocks to creating aren't lack of money or gear, it's your brain telling you "I can't make this film because I lack..." Conceive and execute! The only definition I make is when some calls themself a "professional". A professional to me is someone who pays the bills with imaging - nothing more.
This is why going to film school was 100% the right move for me. I now have so many friends who want to make films and deadlines to force me to write/shoot/edit when I would otherwise give in to writer’s block or any other mental hurdle and put it off for weeks.
Im glad I see your stuff around on youtube. You have real eye opening insights for everyone interested in getting into the film industry. I just hope and pray I make it. Recently got into Film School and I’m really working hard to do the best I can
1:00 "You just have to do the thing!" The key to getting going on anything, regardless of whether it's being a filmmaker or getting in shape, is showing up and doing the work. Forget about whether you're GOOD at it, "good" will come on its own as you "do the thing!"
I think this is one of your best videos yet. It applies even to those who are not aiming to become a paid film maker, but who simply want to make films for their own pleasure, for family or non-paid community projects. The most important lesson comes from your statement: shoot, shoot some more and keep shooting even more.
I don't allow things like budget, gear or lack of crew and actors prevent me from making films. But I definitely need to take my time when it comes to deciding on which story I want to tell next. I want to make sure I have a full grasp on my narrative before diving into production. I think that's super important.
This video gave me an extra push to continue to my next project. I've been working on other peoples' films for some time, but the last film I directed was last year and I feel like I've been pulled back by my own anxieties: about getting the film right, producing the right script, deciding which script is worth producing more, getting the right people, getting the right camera, worried that my films won't be good enough for festivals, constantly wondering if I'm even good enough, etc.
I want to push myself to produce more films, especially as a writer-director so I can get myself out there more, and just have more confidence in my abilities. Thanks!
I was a Filmmaker for a several years (doing UA-cam skits and short films), but I came to realize, while I loved acting and directing, I enjoyed the actual writing process a whole lot more. So I switched my focus from filmmaking to screenwriting. Now I'm working on honing my Craft and hopefully in the future I'll be able to sell a spec and work in animation (my great love).
Great video man. A lot of what you said can apply to just about anything one wants to pursue, definitely gave me food for thought with writing.
What you are saying is so true. I have made so many films solo ( some without any actor) in my first years as a filmmaker that helped me develop my skills. I consider my filmmaking a hobby, not a career. But I still do about two projects a year as a director and one to three as a director of photography.
I've always loved that wall in the background !!
Good to have you back bro!
You're definitely speaking facts in this video. When I was in film school I had a conceit that I wouldn't do anything other than narrative films, but then when I lost access to school resources after that, I realized I had to do other stuff to keep my skills sharp and remain a filmmaker.
Definitely needed to see this video today. I kind of stopped dead in my tracks on the pre-production phase of my first short film back in August because I was waiting on money/gear and I let that stop me from doing anything. And then a whole bunch of other stuff in my personal life went down and that halted my progress again. But after watching this I'm going to start writing a new draft of my script and push forward. Thanks.
Thank you for opening my eyes to the endless possibilities of doing whatever it takes to make the Short/Feature Film happen, Regardless of letting the limitations on some of the things we do or don't have affect us because of the challenges some of us Filmmakers may have more than others. In other words, You are right. We should not make excuses based upon the fact that most if not all of us Filmmakers, Let the lack of resources stop us from doing what we should be doing; Be more thoughtful in being more creative on working around the obstacles and challenges brought by the lack of Time, Resources, Cast & Crew, and Money. We should embrace the resources we do have(Even if it is small) to not only use for the hell of it, But to keep on learning from the overall experience/struggle and to adapt to whatever problem that lay before us and to never give up. I know this is a lot to read Lol , But what I want to say is Thank You Darious for your Kick-Ass, yet Inspirational Advice. I appreciate the content you put out and what you do for us, The Up-N-Coming Beginner Filmmakers. This video really gave the inspiration and motivation to make films regardless of how big or how small it is. And to never use the lack of one resource or another stop us but instead to go out and try while learning and being patient putting in the hours necessary to fail and to become better. Once again, Thank You Bro and I'll always be honored to watch your future content/remaining to be a true fan of your channel. B-Mac OUT!
This video motivated me to make my own video about this topic encouraging the photographers in my youtube channel, thank you bro, you´re amazing!
Sounds like a good idea. Do it Brutha.
I really enjoy your channel! Thanks for continuing not only to inspire but knock some sense into our crazy heads!! Much love bro! ✌🏼
darious in janurary 2020: "welcome to 2020!" [gonna be a great year]
darious in december 2020: welcome to the end of 2020! LETS GOOOOO!!!!
I feel like we’ve all heard these things but we all hold off from putting these things in action! I justify not making personal projects because I don’t think I’m ready and it’s too expensive. I hated the way my last short film turned out. But now, I have more than enough equipment to film and really no excuses except needing a couple bucks to film it! I needed to hear this
right on point with Everything sir! great blog. If you want to be a filmmaker, just jump in the pool, try it and work at it everyday. Do NOT wait for something that may never come!!!
You're right Darius. FUCK! the budget! Get people to help make a film and compensate them with food and credits. But it's up them to decide if they're serious. Make your film with the resources that you have. You want to be discovered and be introduced and building connections. I did that a lot when I founded my own film company and now I'm connected with people and far as Hollywood.
Exactly what I need to to hear! Thanks! 👍👍😎 ~Maverick
Totally feelin ya, definitely dealing with GAS, but then I grab the camera and say “I’m going to film .......? 🤷🏼♂️Well maybe a vlog? Ok on....???” How does one break the writers/filmers block? Like, I’ve collected up tons of gear, but as a 1 man band no friends, fam, etc. im like ok now lower the expectations but still nothing, I’m sick of this, I want to shoot every day and end up right back on here (UA-cam) searching for the past 6 months. Looking at a bunch of gear, & now a newly acquired pile of books about creativity and videography but still holding onto my (rigged out GH5) camera like🤷🏼♂️🤦♂️...”so uhh.... well🤔....ok I’ll shoot a...... crap can’t think of anything” so I go watch more of these videos trying to find inspiration. I want to practice to get better cause I hate how ‘home videoish’ my footage looks, as I want to get up to that pro ‘look’ but I feel I’m just slipping backwards due to this block!? Any HELP!?
This is top advice which I've followed for the last year now. I've made 22 shorts in the last year, all of varying quality but I always feel if I'm creating then I'm learning
Needed to hear this today!
I agree with every point you make. At the same time, I'm guilty of some of them. A gear trap is the easiest to fall into and even though I was always aware of it I let the gear stop me from starting my own YT channel earlier. I used to teach people how to edit photos using Lightroom and Photoshop and saw so many people with $5000 cameras that didn't know what ISO is.
Good thing you broke out of that or you never would have started your channel!
You are very correct!! I see/view a lot of content where guys/gals are using their friends & family because they all want that 15mins lol. So if you have some gear and a good/decent editing program you can create shorts/reality tv etc with little to no MONEY!! Get better at it, build a following, and then move to the next level.
thank you big bro !!! Dead ass needed to hear this.
"... so much to learn, it will make your head spin". The inside of my head is a tornado.
So, helpful that I am kind of tearing up... filmmaking for me has been a series of heartbreaks. I really appreciate this video.
My favourite UA-cam channel and YT personality.. Much love from Uganda and Happy New Year to you.
thanks Darius...keep going
Thank you for this vlog it helped me mentally to just do it.. I’m in filmmaking school for my BS but I really only want to make music videos I been collecting cameras, lenses, gimbals etc but haven’t shot a video yet lol
What you said about equipment was spot on. Granted, I try to get the bare minimum. Like I just got my first focus puller and a rod system for my camera equipment. Hell, I still use my Rebel T5i for filming both my movie reviews and short films. If the weather wasn’t so bad outside, I could do a mini documentary on my favorite high school teacher.
Man, this was much needed video for me! Thank you 🙏
Your page is extremely inspiring. I am looking to transition from retail to film making with no film school. You are literally my professor. Thank you 🙏🏾✊🏾
Me and my friends have been making films for about 3 years ish. None of us are professionals or anything, I mean, we use are smartphones as camera's and have an okay green screen. But we improve every time we make a film. We have about 10 films now and we always have fun and have definitely gotten better. So yes, you don't need anything fancy. D4 knows what he's talking about!😉
Man, this episode captures why I love your content. Thanks. I am a filmmaker.
I'm glad this resonated with you Fam.
This was exactly what I needed !
I feel you on this. I don't understand filmmakers who don't shoot. I can't afford that Black Magic 4k camera that I want... so I shoot short sci-fi films with the original Google Pixel. I try to shoot something every 3-4 weeks to improve on my craft. I hope the progress is obvious..lmao.
I was legit watching your 'UNSOUND' BTS video for the 4th time when I got this notification! :)
That video is a timeless masterpiece. As well as Unsound
I seem to keep coming back to this video every time the weight of being a filmmaker is too heavy. This S#@T keeps me motivated. I am ready to grind for ten more years now! Thanks for the content man.
love the constant inspirational messaging from you/your channel, DB! keep it up :)
Gear acquisition syndrome is the realest excuse for filming! 100%! I feel it daily 🤣
Thanks for the inspiration. I make short films and parodies on my iPhone with my son. We just like making movies. One day we will get more gear, but I agree, just go out there and do it. Checkout our Home Alone Parody with a Twist and our ET movie parody. We even got the kids to fly on their bikes.
Gimbal for Valentine's Day.
The pain is real.
Just exactly what i need. Nice to hear this one. 👍👍👍
Darious For some of us "waiting for money" is a thing, for example for me I have only one camera.....it was bought new in 1992 and uses 8mm Hi Def video tape. So it isn't even like it records in digital even though it does, and also includes a mode to record in 16:1 ratio. BUT I have been literally "waiting for money" for years, because the thing takes video tape, video tape mind you I seldom have money to buy a supply of!! Secondly when I bought it new, it uses a "special connection" to attach it to a computer known as "Firewire" OR what is called an IEEE 1394 port, that at the time was only available on more "high end" computers!! It literally took me 12 years before I could afford to buy a computer with this connector on it, just so I could actually EDIT the videos I was recording at the time....and then as soon as I could afford the computer I needed everybody in the computer industry STOPPED using the IEEE 1394 format and went to full digital and SD cards, and NOW those cameras cost $500 for a decent one, and I just DO NOT have the money coming in to both "pay my bills" and swing "buying another new camera" at the same time!!!
Then there are other costs too, like lighting, audio recorders and things like SD cards and again "high end computers" that can process video data!! All this "costs money" even here in the real world, and some people just don't have a money tree growing in our back yards!!
Then again many of us get into the "dead end loop" you go to work to make money, and find that you only earn enough money to pay your bills, just so you are broke by the day you get paid because you paid your bills and the hard you work, the more money you make and the more your bills seem to want more of your money and around and around and around you go!!!
By the end you are spending 80 hours a week at your low pay dead end job, earning no real "actual" extra money, and you are wasting so much time at work that you have no time for anything else, even if you wanted to be a film maker instead!! And then your trade off is you can't quit your job because you NEED that money to pay your bills, but you have to give up your film making ideas because you don't have time to shoot the video footage you want or need either, because you are literally waiting for money and spending ALL your time at work instead anyhow!! Thus is the loop completed!!!
And every year it makes it harder to find a decent camera, because every year comes out a new "better" equipment, that is now $100 more than last years model which is STILL probably out of your price range, and no matter how many videos you do make, when nobody is paying you for your hard work as a film maker ON TOP of your already soul sucking job, it ends up you are still waiting to make money to buy better equipment that never seems to happen or come along when you need it too!!
And the same thing happened to my with my own business when I would do a job for somebody thinking I was going to earn $500 extra building somebody a deck, only to have the people tell me "What is we only gave you $500 to build it?" and you start looking at the materials and realize you CAN NOT build a $1500 deck for just $500 unless they expect YOU to buy their materials for them!!!
A lot of cheap bastards out in this world anymore, that think your time is worth nothing and that YOU OWE THEM for things that THEY should be paying for themselves!! After all it isn't YOUR deck you are building or YOUR shed they want made!! BUT everybody wants you to eat the costs of the labor or the materials, even in film making, as though you can make video tape or audio recording equipment out of thin air!! Or in my case they assumed I owned both a lumber yard AND a hardware store, I could just steal parts from!!
And in the end I have spent years "waiting for money" money to buy tools, money needed for a better workshop and money for equipment and materials!!! Things are not always cheap, rather you are talking about video cameras or lumber, and tools don't just appear out of thin air!!! This isn't Star Trek and I can't just walk up to my personal replicator and demand a Go Pro Hero, and a Drill Press and "poof" they appear!!! In my case I have to work, and work hard to earn money and save it literally for YEARS until I can afford "basic things" like a new computer for example! Heck my last computer took me 12 years of saving to earn enough money to buy the parts to build it!! And every time I think I will have the money to buy a new more modern video camera either I am hit with another bill that needs to be paid or my car needs a new part to fix it, or my dog has to have a vet appointment that sets me back $200 a pop!! So "waiting for money" to some of us is a very REAL thing!!!!!
Great way of looking at it, "You are what you do everyday." !
loved this one, ive recently slowed down when it comes to making videos because i felt like i needed a crew and some actors to really set my projects off (i mainly do music videos and have been solo on every shoot since i started)
#2022~ post #pandemic I had to come back to the channel…. Thanx, as always Got my motivation back working on new short 👌🏾
Big facts man, thank you for sharing.
Your channel is dope bro. I really appreciate this page
Thanks for making so many helpful videos. The first time I watched one of your videos a few months ago I didn't know what an f stop was now I am running full manual and thinking of shooting raw and color grading in the near future.
Thanks for that. I needed a push like that. I love you'r videos man! You're absolutely right!
I love your message man.
"Being a storyteller is even more important. -- Being a filmmaker is only 'step one' of the much larger process". ☕ _c.
thanks, D4!
To be honest I've been feeling the struggle. This video is definitely what I needed to hear. A film I just watched recently was made for just around $8k and was excellent. I think I needed this kick in the ass to restart my journey.
It's important to note that a low or no budget can help you in a way, it can make you more inventive and creative when I make films they're out of my pocket and I don't get that money back at all, it's just what I want to do, money can't stop you from making a good filmmaker, lack of creativity and ingenuity can stop you from making a good film.
One of my favorite channels. Needed to see this video.
Darious can you make a video about submitting short films to festivals. Which ones and where to find them etc....
i second this
These are websites that have most of the festivals and you can submit from there.
-Film Freeway - most popular now.
-Short Film Depot - lowest costs on some festivals.
If you are wondering which festivals are worth applying to you can check the Recognised Festivals List on BAFTA and The Academy’s websites. There are A-tier, B-tier and so on!
Georgi Lolov perfect. Thanks!!
Such a legend Darious! thanks for the great lesson/reminder of what we do and why we do it!
Thanks for the good advice. 👏
facts. straight facts. Skillshare needs some D4 content.
Don't Buy Another Gimbal for Valentine Day! LOL
Needed to hear this. Thanks dude.
Great Video
Make sense I agree.
Great Vid Darious! You Are The Goat My Brotha
You r not a filmmaker-
•If you're waiting for money to begin.
•If you're waiting for the right gear or equipments.
•If you're waiting for crew.
•If you're waiting for actors.
I am not waiting for any of them..And so, i am a filmmaker. Hehe😉
You're the man D4!
Bro, smack me!!! LOL! I KEEP LOOKING FOR GEAR ON EBAY! But I do use it.
Needed to hear this
YES!
Always enjoy your videos
I really needed this! thank you!
Great video, thanks for posting.
Haha I'm watching this at place and i been shooting vids and photos. Everything you say is true. The gear hit me home.
Bro me inspiras a hacer cine... Cada vídeo cada palabra... Gracias
Bro you inspired me... You makes me do something of films thanks
This definitely motivated me ! 🙌🏽
listen. your channel doesnt suck even a little bit. youre an amazing speaker and smart as fuck. instant subscribe.
this channel is brilliant!
Love the advise keep doing what you do👊🏿
TRUTH! Well said, sir. viva la dogma 95!
“There’s Nothing Creative About Living Within Your Means.” -Francis Ford Coppola
You Rock you’ll get yours,thanks a bunch
As a Filmmaker, I would like to concentrate music videos and short films this year. Helps me to establish further :).
Great advice I am a aspiring actor and I wrote a script for a Star Wars fan film I’m thinking of making just idk how im gonna act in it and direct it tho
You are what you do often and passionately
Always come to your channel when I need THAT PUSH... gotta admit I've been falling into the "gas" category"... Its a thing, for real. Thanks for your videos!
well said, i need you to reach through my monitor and slap me around Darious!!!