Finding the Hero of Your Story
Great stories need a hero. Finding the hero completely changes the way the story goes, how it feels, and how great is is for your audience.
Your Questions, Answered
You've shared your problems — we've got your answers!
Single Camera vs. Multi-Camera for a New Director
A new director wonders if single camera coverage or multi-camera coverage is best for the marketing video she's shooting.
Can I Have a Career in Film Without Moving?
A reader asks: "How do I have a career in film if live in a place that has no film industry?" Does she have to move? And if so, where?
Help! I Need an On-Set Checklist!
Whether you're shooting a family gathering or a feature film, a checklist can be a lifesaver. Here's how to build one for your shoot.
Do I have to Watch Movies to Learn Video?
You don't have to watch movies to be good at making movies. But you should, because it will make you much better. Here's how to watch movies.
Going From Idea to Documentary
How do I get from an idea to my first short documentary? Does my documentary need a message?
I Want a Film Career. My Parents say No.
How do you become a filmmaker? Step one is to decide to do it—and then commit to the path even if your parents think you're nuts.
How Do I Make It as a Hollywood Screenwriter?
Congratulations, you've finished your first screenplay. Now the question is "How do I make it as a career Hollywood Screenwriter?"
Can you actually make a great screencast?
Sometimes you're teaching about an app or other content that lives on a screen. Traditional screencasts are visually dull. But it it possible to make an interesting screencast?
Do I Need to Know the Act Breaks in a Movie?
Can you really break down a movie into three neat acts? Here's why screenwriters should care about movie structure for sure, but act breaks? Not so much.
Adding a Story After the Shoot
Adding a story first? No problem—you can add a story after the shoot is done. Reality shows do it all the time
Shooting Ratio: How Much is Enough Footage?
How do you know if you've shot enough for your next video project? Learn about the shooting ratio, and why directors always aim to waste footage.