*Moral of the video:* If you feel like your life is falling apart and you have no clue whats happening - Google "Schools in Finland". Thanks Simon. Got it.
Even Quentin Tarantino talks about how easy dialogue is for him because he spends so much of his time in life merely listening to people in conversations
The BEST way to learn film making is to MAKE FILMS. I used to be caught up in the technicalities and the perfection of making. THe thing is to drop the perfection and JUST DO. The only way I learnt was by doing, sounds a bit dogmatic but DOING beats everything. The knowledge I gain from reading and learning films far outweighs the wisdom I gain from making them. But hey, Its just my perspective :) P.s A really well made video Simon
I totally agree with you. It's easy to obsess about what equipment, software, procedure, etc. to follow just so you can make the "perfect" film. Often times, at least for me, that mindset burns me out. So now I just DO. It doesn't matter if it's perfect or not. Often times it turns out fine anyway. And if mistakes were to happen, those are the time I learn the most. Very good insight, Kesh ART.
I disagree. To a certain extent of course. The point of story telling through film making is to use visuals, audio, lighting, colors, etc. to tell your story the way YOU want the audience to perceive it. This is why it's different from novels, in the sense that the audience usually visualizes what they believe is happening through the words on the page. Therefore, many different people visualize many different things while reading a book. I think one of the worst things you can tell a beginner film maker is "Just go make films! That's how you learn!" If you tell a student to write a perfect thesis statement, but you don't tell him how to do it, he'll never get it right. I personally believe, as a beginner, you should sit down and learn things before you go out and try to make a film. Watch videos, study films, find mentors. If you just go out and try to make a film, not only will you have absolutely no guidance as to how to go about doing the thing you want to do, but you will most likely be disappointed and frustrated by the final product. I feel as though "doing beats everything" is only true if you have a basic understanding of how film making works. If you don't understand the key concepts of how to control light, you might as well make an audio book, or a novel, or write a short story. You should learn how to use the tools of film making before you try to make a film for the same reason you sit and learn math before you take the math test. Especially for more advanced things. No one in the world is going to randomly learn the use of aperture by accident. Sure, they may realize if they push the camera lens ring one way, the numbers go down, and the image gets brighter, but do they know what it's called? Do they know what the numbers mean? Do they also realize that their depth of field is being altered? And how will people know that the ISO is the reason for their muddy image? I've personally learned more sitting on my ass and watching video after video from DSLRGuide than I ever did from going out and making films. And that has prepared me for the moment I need to go out and make a film, so I'm not fumbling on set with my camera because I don't know how it works. My worst films were made when I just decided one day to shoot a short film with no guidance at all. It wasn't until I took a break from filming anything, and just sat, and learned for a few months before picking up my camera again, that I began to make good films.
I'm not sure you're using that quote the right way lol. I believe Cameron is referring to the fact that the title of "Director" doesn't have to be taken so seriously. As in, you don't have to be a professional in order to be a Director. Anyone can be a director, it doesn't matter if your films are bad or good, you can make films. You don't have to have an expensive budget and years of experience to make a good film. THAT'S what Cameron is saying. I'm sure that he would agree that knowing how your equipment works is a useful thing to know when making a film. I personally can't remember a single thing that I learned from my old films that I didn't have any guidance on. Why? Because it was a no brainer when I discovered the basic film making techniques and tools that are essential when making a film. Sure, rules of film are meant to be broke, but you must know the rules before you break them, or else there is no motivation behind breaking them, nor is there reason. Breaking the 180 degree rule without knowing you are doesn't advance the story. Breaking the 180 degree rule because something out of the ordinary happened might have advanced the story. The point is, I personally believe you will learn quicker, and more efficiently if you sit down and study the essential tools of film making before you decide to make a film, than to just walk outside and start filming. Learn to pre-produce, and to make a shotlist, and visualize story telling elements before you decide to take your lens cap off. Not only will you save yourself the hassle and time of making a film you're not happy with, but you will also be prepared for any film, regardless of the experiences you have come in contact with.
I agree with what you are saying but we as people always gravitate towards learning by watching as it is a prime driver of evolution. When you are a creative person i.e one who does art,films and such, starting or engaging in the process of creating is a VERY hard thing to do. We and mostly I, always face this immense resistance toward starting a project. To cope with that Ill sometimes sit and watch others to "learn" instead of doing what Im supposed to do. So I always side towards DOing a lot more than just learning by watching. Im not saying you shouldn't sit and watch movies to learn and study how its done, its crucial to our process, Im just saying TIP you scale towards doing more because I think A LOT of people need to hear. Again, you'd have to evaluate and find that balance between learning and Doing. Personally I have learned more by doing fast than learning by watching. I have a feeling that a guy who makes 100 films a year learns A LOT MORE than a guys who watches 100 films :)
I feel engaged with your intro since I spend my whole year hesitating between studying maths or filmmaking. Finnaly, I'm studying maths at school, and filmmaking after school.
Simon, you are an inspiration. I've watched you since you were filming in your room to now when you go everywhere. Sorta shows the growth of the filmmaker doesn't it? From caring most for cameras and lenses to caring more about what you show on screen and the ideas behind it all. I just want to say thank you for being different from all those people out there and doing it your own way. Be it RUclips vids or films. A lot more should be watching you. I hope you find success in your venture and wish you all the best. Oh and happy new year!
YES. THANK YOU, SIMON! Live your life. Spend time with family, meet new people, pay attention to the STORY of life- because you should be a storyteller before a filmmaker. Grasp hold of real life stories of redemption, perseverance, struggle, the things that give you chills. Learning all the technical things will tell you how to make a film, but if you never live life, you'll end up like most modern singers and rappers: All the talent in the world but absolutely no substance at all.
You always do a great job of making lessons that capture exactly how I'm feeling. I've lately been thinking about filmmaking nonstop, and while I thought it was good I was definitely getting exhausted. Taking a break from it sounds like a great idea, and your reasons for how make great sense. Thank you so much!
So many times when I watch one of your videos I find myself wanting to say: thank you, Simon! I love the way you talk, how you share experiences, how you manage to transport information and thoughts in your videos. You're really inspiring me a lot, again and again and again. Watching your videos means to learn and to relax at the same time. I try to think of any other youtuber who is able to this to me, but there's no name coming to my mind. Thanks a lot for every video, every experience, every inspiration you are sharing with us.
I love this channel because it not only teaches how to make films like the name suggests, but it also teaches you life lessons and morals to live by. Sometimes I focus too much on the technical part of things and need to focus on how I am approaching it. This channel helps me to see the bigger picture. Thanks Simon!
This is really inspirational. I agree with the point about learning when relaxed instead of forced. The things I remember most is when I'm just thinking at home or on the bus or having a casual chat with someone, not in a classroom environment. I learn from life. Making mistakes. Re-trying things that didn't work. We definitely learn from DOING things. There's only so much that can be done from reading. This video is really good and schools in the UK really need to get with what Finland have! :)
'Kill Your Darlings' best advice I was given when composing, writing, shooting - surround yourself with like minded people - choose subjects you know about - the mundane - the obvious - finger painting - successful writers write every day - photographers always have their camera - musicians rehearse every day - dancers constantly dance - we learn by doing. thank you for sharing. Happy New Year
That's such a good mindset to embrace! With songwriting, it's that same. I should experience life and indulge in unlikely inspiration instead of trying to write a masterpiece in a soulless room all day. Thanks again, Simon
Hi Simon! Thanks for putting this video together it truly is insightful. I'm actually a 37 year old working in corporate America and beginning to pursue my passion for film and hopefully one day directing. I'm actually in the process of going to University for Film and watching your video made me reflect a bit on my choice. I am glad that I am pursuing going back to school for film and believe that besides the academic knowledge I am looking forward most to the community of students (fellow filmmakers) and instructors to gain their insight and knowledge. Thanks again for taking the time to put together this video.
Great video man! The balance you highlighted between work/school & fun things we enjoy is really important to understand. I like what you had to say on the subject!
As a filmmaker who has struggled to find a balance between my love of film and my personal life over the last year or so, I found this video very helpful and inspiring. You're an intelligent and insightful young man, and you're definitely going places. Thank you for this!
I'm always constantly trying to learn new ways to film. I'm having trouble seeking out inspiration. I'm currently trying to figure out what video I want to make next. When I watched this video, I realized that you were right. I've been watching videos, movies, and studying the filming techniques. There were days I'd risk editing rather than spending time with the people that I care about because I wanted to get work done. Yet once I stopped editing, I found more motivation to edit and create stories because I'm living. Thanks for making this video, I think I know what to do now. Also the textbook comparison was a job well done. Love the analogy.
so happy to hear this. I honestly believe that we're most powerful when we're living life to the full rather than constantly studying technique, I like to think it can speed up our progress rapidly to the point where you can hire other people to think about the technical aspects..
I''m from Finland and I actually got to shoot and edit a bunch of films in school. Ten years after I discover your videos and I got the urge to start making films again! Thanks for your awesome videos Simon :)
that simon teaching filmmaking while sitting beside a window on table today makes video so good that it gives me goosebumps, keep up the good work mate
Simon, love your vision brother, I'm from Brazil, and I been learning a lot with you, is good to see someone who are concerned more with the content other than the gear, that's why your videos have so much value, and the way you put it in words, a kind of poetic and simple vibe, make it all very beautiful, thanks buddy, hope to see you in Brazil one day!
Loved this. I'm a filmmaker and middle school math and robotics teacher in Texas. At a private school and have a lot more freedom in the ways I teach than I did when in public school. I've got a few videos on how I work to create an environment where creativity and willingness to learn from mistakes in my math and robotics classes for anyone interested.
I'm a student and I'm interested in filmmaking.I really love your videos man!You have different prespective than most filmmakers out there and always come up with helpful & interesting videos!Love it!
I found this video so on point, so on focus. That's the bad side of the "social bubble" and I'm finding myself more and more open to the world, while outside, without smartphone, and creative when I'm in my studio.
Wonderful video. You always look at things from a different perspective, Simon, and it's really inspiring. Btw I thought the Kings speech was great. But this video was even better.
Going out for a walk, listening to music (plays the Chance performance I've had on repeat this morning). Respect!! You've literally been my primary source for learning filmmaking first hands without school. And this just make learning fun for me again. And learning in general. Not just filmmaking. 23 here. And thank you for your dedication to what you do cause it helps me out so much. T.O. From Jacksonville FL. One day soon I'll send you one of my films to check out.
haha I think i've watched all the live clips I can find on RUclips of his, and I really wish there were more... glad to hear that the vids have been helpful, keep going!
This was on point. It's easy to believe that the most studious wins. In college a professor (referring to cartography & map making) said our greatest obligation was to consume, read, look at and research maps. Use them. Live and breathe them. Then. Just. Stop. Let all the concepts, ideas and images coalesce in your mind. The relaxed mind is the most productive and focused. Clear, well developed concepts and ideas emerge, fully formed. Great video.
I think this was a really motivating video for all us young film makers out there. It's important to take failure in our stride, but more importantly know how to move ahead each time by learning from our mistakes.
Watching this gave me a new perspective on filming. Currently in a slump and scared of my current edits. I feel this will help me get out of it. Thank you Simon!
This just hit me right in the face. I'm wondering if it can be applied to other creative areas but I think it definitely can be. I love these kinds of videos. You transform your inner thoughts into great monologues. Love it.
I go a school extremely similar to the Finnish ones mentioned, and can confirm it's brilliant. It really sets you up to keep learning for the rest of your life. Great work as always Simon.
Great advice. I pretty much read, watch and study films everyday, but I noticed that my work improved immensely when I started reading about other topics besides cinema.
Very inspiring! I just started creating videos on my own and your channel is a source for deep understanding filmmaking, not just simply how to handle a camera.
what a fantastic perspective. I never even thought to think that spending ALL my time with filmmaking could actually be hindering my progress. fantastic!
Yet another great video! I think that understanding the world, yourself and your surroundings makes someone a great filmmaker. Because those things will help to create stories that will resonates with others or can tell stories that people can relate to.
Nice video Simon. You actually presented a whole concept of progress and rewarding acts in this life. That's mainly by doing what someone likes to do and also by doing it as a human mind, not as a working machine. Much deeper meaning than the title says. Keep moving forward.
As a Finnish guy warming up to my first bigger amateur film project by watching different educational videos (your's is among the best) this really tickled my fancy :D
Dear Simon. I really love your channel and your rather philosophical weekly contribution to my RUclips experience. I would love to see more technical stuff from you like in older days and hope you can teach us more than philosophy. A fan from Austria.
I stumbled upon your channel, and found myself watching all of your videos, even though I don't shoot film. Im more into photography, but I keep watching! Your videos are meditative, strangely enough.
What i started doing was going to a public area and people watch. It sounds more effective than you think, some of the few ideas ive gotten were just from watching ppl. Thanks Again Simon !
Awesome video, I think the comparison really helps show you need to apply similar principles to learning an art as you do learning anything else in school.
I'm glad you made a video about his. I would even bring up stand up comedians with this too. They observe people and use this in their act. They may make it more interesting, or exciting by changing the story a little bit so that way they have a punchline, but as filmmakers we can do the same thing. People watch. And use that in our films.
well just start by writting all that you have to do to make a film, like the script, what are you going to record etc. And then put those things into the pactice (sorry if i didn't explain well, english is not my first language)
Sunwakka All you will hear from people is to just start and yeah that's right, so here's how: get a paper and wright down all a list of ideas for a script, find your favorite and get a celtx acount, then wright your script. now if you don't have a camera film with your smart phone. Now you have a camera and a script, you need actors, my biggest price of advice would be for your first film start small ( a few actors and a few crew members). You can usually get actors by a add in a newspaper, on Craigslist at your local high school drama club, and your community college acting class. you will hear all this information about shot lists and storyboards, and all the different camera movements you can do, best thing you can do so you enjoy it and want to make more and get better is to stick with really simple camera movement lockdown shots will be most of it. And for story boards for your first film just don't even bother, instead of shot lists for your first film just line the script.
Your comment could make a good short. Frustrated filmmaker seeking inspiration. Maybe go nutty with the ways he tries to motivate himself. Watches movies while standing on head. Drinks strange concoctions that his favorite directors are rumored to drink. Re enacts scenes from his favorite shows, etc. In the end he gives up and we reveal that it was a movie in a movie the whole time and the whole idea came from this comment:)
I think these days it's way easier than ever to teach yourself film-making. It's no longer a closed industry that you can only get into from going to film school. Awesome perspective :)
Thank you very much for that analogy, I have been struggling quite a bit with trying to create and have had lot's of blocks. I really like the way you explained how we can learn. I have watched a few of your videos so far. From if daily vlogging can be bad to what cameras are the best for film making. I feel like coming across your channel has kind of ripped me away from that whole "I'm not good enough" and "they are so much better" mentality. So thank you very much.
The best way I have ever heard it put, "Do something that you Love and you will never work a day in your life." A lot of people get stressed out and frustrated and all of that stuff because of this or that and really lose sight of your doing something that you love. The thing I do, when I get my head to far in or frustration comes down on me, I take a set back and say "I should be having fun and this is something that I really love doing." That always helps me get refocused. Remember guys and gals, HAVE FUN!!!
Finnland is Futuristic in so many ways. It's just unbelievable. Your Compression is well thought and gives another inspiration. So thanks for every video you made as well as for this special one :)
Wehey! This is a great video, Simon! I personally loved it! It's a new idea, the presentation was cool and relevant, and your points were all backed up nicely. Well done :)
Hey man. Just wanted to say I really love your videos. Such a great focus on substance over style, and you seem really intelligent with your approach to the subject matter. I came for some quick tips on how to shoot better youtube videos, but stayed for... well, everything else. Your channel is interesting even if you're not a hardcore filmmaker, in the same way Every Frame a Painting is interesting to me even though I'm not an editor, and I mean that as a compliment. :)
Wow, really appreciate your videos, and Im always stunned by your thoughtful, well written and quite philosophical texts😉 Keep up the great work ps. Really liked the white words ok the black screen
I came to this conclusion by accident when I was feeling perpetually in a state of writers block from working on projects and never really enjoying the 'real (outside) world'. I still haven't found the right balance of everything yet tho. I still think working on stuff regularly and making things is still vital to improving... or at least helping in learning what you enjoy and don't enjoy doing.
Great video once again. It really is a daunting process to teach ourselves. In countries with less people in filmmaking like here in Portugal, and can also be solitary and that's not what you want from cinematography. Hope I get to collab more in the future I feel like when I do collab my learning curve accelerates. Until then making movies that involve my friends is a way of going about it!
This Video contains my two favorite topics
1. Filmmaking
and
2. Criticism of Public Education
3. Finland (Suomi mainittu!!!)
Hahaha this comment fits me so well ^^ I agree!
sounds like you could be a good person to make films that criticise / suggest new ideas for education!
DSLRguide, can you give me please your snapchat
*Moral of the video:* If you feel like your life is falling apart and you have no clue whats happening - Google "Schools in Finland".
Thanks Simon. Got it.
pretty much
DSLRguide Good for me. I live in Finland.
Are you happy with the education in finland?
I'm also from Finland, and I'm very happy, but as with all things, lots of people aren't happy with it.
Why lots of people aren't happy?
Even Quentin Tarantino talks about how easy dialogue is for him because he spends so much of his time in life merely listening to people in conversations
good point, and everyone goes crazy for his dialogue!
The BEST way to learn film making is to MAKE FILMS. I used to be caught up in the technicalities and the perfection of making. THe thing is to drop the perfection and JUST DO. The only way I learnt was by doing, sounds a bit dogmatic but DOING beats everything. The knowledge I gain from reading and learning films far outweighs the wisdom I gain from making them. But hey, Its just my perspective :)
P.s A really well made video Simon
I totally agree with you. It's easy to obsess about what equipment, software, procedure, etc. to follow just so you can make the "perfect" film. Often times, at least for me, that mindset burns me out. So now I just DO. It doesn't matter if it's perfect or not. Often times it turns out fine anyway. And if mistakes were to happen, those are the time I learn the most.
Very good insight, Kesh ART.
I couldn't agree more!
I disagree. To a certain extent of course. The point of story telling through film making is to use visuals, audio, lighting, colors, etc. to tell your story the way YOU want the audience to perceive it. This is why it's different from novels, in the sense that the audience usually visualizes what they believe is happening through the words on the page. Therefore, many different people visualize many different things while reading a book. I think one of the worst things you can tell a beginner film maker is "Just go make films! That's how you learn!" If you tell a student to write a perfect thesis statement, but you don't tell him how to do it, he'll never get it right. I personally believe, as a beginner, you should sit down and learn things before you go out and try to make a film. Watch videos, study films, find mentors. If you just go out and try to make a film, not only will you have absolutely no guidance as to how to go about doing the thing you want to do, but you will most likely be disappointed and frustrated by the final product. I feel as though "doing beats everything" is only true if you have a basic understanding of how film making works. If you don't understand the key concepts of how to control light, you might as well make an audio book, or a novel, or write a short story. You should learn how to use the tools of film making before you try to make a film for the same reason you sit and learn math before you take the math test. Especially for more advanced things. No one in the world is going to randomly learn the use of aperture by accident. Sure, they may realize if they push the camera lens ring one way, the numbers go down, and the image gets brighter, but do they know what it's called? Do they know what the numbers mean? Do they also realize that their depth of field is being altered? And how will people know that the ISO is the reason for their muddy image? I've personally learned more sitting on my ass and watching video after video from DSLRGuide than I ever did from going out and making films. And that has prepared me for the moment I need to go out and make a film, so I'm not fumbling on set with my camera because I don't know how it works. My worst films were made when I just decided one day to shoot a short film with no guidance at all. It wasn't until I took a break from filming anything, and just sat, and learned for a few months before picking up my camera again, that I began to make good films.
I'm not sure you're using that quote the right way lol. I believe Cameron is referring to the fact that the title of "Director" doesn't have to be taken so seriously. As in, you don't have to be a professional in order to be a Director. Anyone can be a director, it doesn't matter if your films are bad or good, you can make films. You don't have to have an expensive budget and years of experience to make a good film. THAT'S what Cameron is saying. I'm sure that he would agree that knowing how your equipment works is a useful thing to know when making a film. I personally can't remember a single thing that I learned from my old films that I didn't have any guidance on. Why? Because it was a no brainer when I discovered the basic film making techniques and tools that are essential when making a film. Sure, rules of film are meant to be broke, but you must know the rules before you break them, or else there is no motivation behind breaking them, nor is there reason. Breaking the 180 degree rule without knowing you are doesn't advance the story. Breaking the 180 degree rule because something out of the ordinary happened might have advanced the story. The point is, I personally believe you will learn quicker, and more efficiently if you sit down and study the essential tools of film making before you decide to make a film, than to just walk outside and start filming. Learn to pre-produce, and to make a shotlist, and visualize story telling elements before you decide to take your lens cap off. Not only will you save yourself the hassle and time of making a film you're not happy with, but you will also be prepared for any film, regardless of the experiences you have come in contact with.
I agree with what you are saying but we as people always gravitate towards learning by watching as it is a prime driver of evolution. When you are a creative person i.e one who does art,films and such, starting or engaging in the process of creating is a VERY hard thing to do. We and mostly I, always face this immense resistance toward starting a project. To cope with that Ill sometimes sit and watch others to "learn" instead of doing what Im supposed to do. So I always side towards DOing a lot more than just learning by watching. Im not saying you shouldn't sit and watch movies to learn and study how its done, its crucial to our process, Im just saying TIP you scale towards doing more because I think A LOT of people need to hear. Again, you'd have to evaluate and find that balance between learning and Doing. Personally I have learned more by doing fast than learning by watching. I have a feeling that a guy who makes 100 films a year learns A LOT MORE than a guys who watches 100 films :)
Your ability to create thoughtful and informative videos keeps amazing me.
it's impressiveeeeeeeee!!
I feel engaged with your intro since I spend my whole year hesitating between studying maths or filmmaking.
Finnaly, I'm studying maths at school, and filmmaking after school.
Antoine vs Science congrats and good luck!
man are you an inspirational young man ive been watching your back catalogue all week. great stuff dude.
Simon, you are an inspiration.
I've watched you since you were filming in your room to now when you go everywhere. Sorta shows the growth of the filmmaker doesn't it? From caring most for cameras and lenses to caring more about what you show on screen and the ideas behind it all.
I just want to say thank you for being different from all those people out there and doing it your own way. Be it RUclips vids or films. A lot more should be watching you.
I hope you find success in your venture and wish you all the best.
Oh and happy new year!
YES. THANK YOU, SIMON! Live your life. Spend time with family, meet new people, pay attention to the STORY of life- because you should be a storyteller before a filmmaker. Grasp hold of real life stories of redemption, perseverance, struggle, the things that give you chills. Learning all the technical things will tell you how to make a film, but if you never live life, you'll end up like most modern singers and rappers: All the talent in the world but absolutely no substance at all.
You always do a great job of making lessons that capture exactly how I'm feeling. I've lately been thinking about filmmaking nonstop, and while I thought it was good I was definitely getting exhausted. Taking a break from it sounds like a great idea, and your reasons for how make great sense. Thank you so much!
everyone says 'write what you know' - but the first step to that is knowing (aka experiencing) enough in the first place..
DSLRguide
Exactly! I tend to forget sometimes that having a life is important lol
Lost Utopia Films 😃 I seem to see you everywhere lol
Echo Productions
I'm omnipresent haha
And I also agree in the relaxing part.
I find inspiration when I'm doing something completely unrelated to film.
So many times when I watch one of your videos I find myself wanting to say: thank you, Simon! I love the way you talk, how you share experiences, how you manage to transport information and thoughts in your videos. You're really inspiring me a lot, again and again and again. Watching your videos means to learn and to relax at the same time. I try to think of any other youtuber who is able to this to me, but there's no name coming to my mind. Thanks a lot for every video, every experience, every inspiration you are sharing with us.
Love the thumbnail, it reminds me that filmmaking its all about collaboration and do what you love. All the success for 2017 ;)
I love this channel because it not only teaches how to make films like the name suggests, but it also teaches you life lessons and morals to live by. Sometimes I focus too much on the technical part of things and need to focus on how I am approaching it. This channel helps me to see the bigger picture. Thanks Simon!
This is really inspirational. I agree with the point about learning when relaxed instead of forced. The things I remember most is when I'm just thinking at home or on the bus or having a casual chat with someone, not in a classroom environment. I learn from life. Making mistakes. Re-trying things that didn't work. We definitely learn from DOING things. There's only so much that can be done from reading. This video is really good and schools in the UK really need to get with what Finland have! :)
Everyone loves Film Riot but the two channels I can't recommend enough are DSLRguide and D4Darious.
This comment is as old as my pet alpaca but I totally agree.
Those are my two absolute favorite filmmaking channels on youtube
'Kill Your Darlings' best advice I was given when composing, writing, shooting - surround yourself with like minded people - choose subjects you know about - the mundane - the obvious - finger painting - successful writers write every day - photographers always have their camera - musicians rehearse every day - dancers constantly dance - we learn by doing. thank you for sharing. Happy New Year
That's such a good mindset to embrace!
With songwriting, it's that same. I should experience life and indulge in unlikely inspiration instead of trying to write a masterpiece in a soulless room all day.
Thanks again, Simon
Hi Simon! Thanks for putting this video together it truly is insightful. I'm actually a 37 year old working in corporate America and beginning to pursue my passion for film and hopefully one day directing. I'm actually in the process of going to University for Film and watching your video made me reflect a bit on my choice. I am glad that I am pursuing going back to school for film and believe that besides the academic knowledge I am looking forward most to the community of students (fellow filmmakers) and instructors to gain their insight and knowledge.
Thanks again for taking the time to put together this video.
Great video man! The balance you highlighted between work/school & fun things we enjoy is really important to understand. I like what you had to say on the subject!
As a filmmaker who has struggled to find a balance between my love of film and my personal life over the last year or so, I found this video very helpful and inspiring. You're an intelligent and insightful young man, and you're definitely going places. Thank you for this!
I'm always constantly trying to learn new ways to film. I'm having trouble seeking out inspiration. I'm currently trying to figure out what video I want to make next. When I watched this video, I realized that you were right. I've been watching videos, movies, and studying the filming techniques. There were days I'd risk editing rather than spending time with the people that I care about because I wanted to get work done. Yet once I stopped editing, I found more motivation to edit and create stories because I'm living. Thanks for making this video, I think I know what to do now.
Also the textbook comparison was a job well done. Love the analogy.
so happy to hear this. I honestly believe that we're most powerful when we're living life to the full rather than constantly studying technique, I like to think it can speed up our progress rapidly to the point where you can hire other people to think about the technical aspects..
Like always, you say the right thing at the right time! Amazing
I''m from Finland and I actually got to shoot and edit a bunch of films in school. Ten years after I discover your videos and I got the urge to start making films again! Thanks for your awesome videos Simon :)
that simon teaching filmmaking while sitting beside a window on table today makes video so good that it gives me goosebumps, keep up the good work mate
Simon, love your vision brother, I'm from Brazil, and I been learning a lot with you, is good to see someone who are concerned more with the content other than the gear, that's why your videos have so much value, and the way you put it in words, a kind of poetic and simple vibe, make it all very beautiful, thanks buddy, hope to see you in Brazil one day!
Loved this. I'm a filmmaker and middle school math and robotics teacher in Texas. At a private school and have a lot more freedom in the ways I teach than I did when in public school. I've got a few videos on how I work to create an environment where creativity and willingness to learn from mistakes in my math and robotics classes for anyone interested.
Genius Comparison between just reading and doing examples, and just watching movies and making them. You're great Simon, keep doing what you're doing.
Simon knocking it out of the park lately. I love it.
I'm a student and I'm interested in filmmaking.I really love your videos man!You have different prespective than most filmmakers out there and always come up with helpful & interesting videos!Love it!
I found this video so on point, so on focus. That's the bad side of the "social bubble" and I'm finding myself more and more open to the world, while outside, without smartphone, and creative when I'm in my studio.
Wonderful video. You always look at things from a different perspective, Simon, and it's really inspiring. Btw I thought the Kings speech was great. But this video was even better.
Your video quality got so MUCH BETTER !! U put ur words into actions !!
Is it just me or have young RUclips filmmakers evolved? This video is more than a mere How-To video...its pure inspiration.
Going out for a walk, listening to music (plays the Chance performance I've had on repeat this morning). Respect!! You've literally been my primary source for learning filmmaking first hands without school. And this just make learning fun for me again. And learning in general. Not just filmmaking. 23 here. And thank you for your dedication to what you do cause it helps me out so much. T.O. From Jacksonville FL. One day soon I'll send you one of my films to check out.
haha I think i've watched all the live clips I can find on RUclips of his, and I really wish there were more... glad to hear that the vids have been helpful, keep going!
This channel is a gem. I really like that approach to filmmaking.
This was on point. It's easy to believe that the most studious wins. In college a professor (referring to cartography & map making) said our greatest obligation was to consume, read, look at and research maps. Use them. Live and breathe them. Then. Just. Stop.
Let all the concepts, ideas and images coalesce in your mind. The relaxed mind is the most productive and focused. Clear, well developed concepts and ideas emerge, fully formed.
Great video.
I think this was a really motivating video for all us young film makers out there. It's important to take failure in our stride, but more importantly know how to move ahead each time by learning from our mistakes.
okay his voice is so soothing. I could listen to him talk all day.
love this content as well haha
Watching this gave me a new perspective on filming. Currently in a slump and scared of my current edits. I feel this will help me get out of it. Thank you Simon!
This just hit me right in the face. I'm wondering if it can be applied to other creative areas but I think it definitely can be. I love these kinds of videos. You transform your inner thoughts into great monologues. Love it.
I go a school extremely similar to the Finnish ones mentioned, and can confirm it's brilliant. It really sets you up to keep learning for the rest of your life. Great work as always Simon.
Great advice. I pretty much read, watch and study films everyday, but I noticed that my work improved immensely when I started reading about other topics besides cinema.
Very inspiring! I just started creating videos on my own and your channel is a source for deep understanding filmmaking, not just simply how to handle a camera.
what a fantastic perspective. I never even thought to think that spending ALL my time with filmmaking could actually be hindering my progress. fantastic!
Yet another great video! I think that understanding the world, yourself and your surroundings makes someone a great filmmaker. Because those things will help to create stories that will resonates with others or can tell stories that people can relate to.
I have been tuning into your videos and I enjoy how you communicate the content clearly. Keep up the great work.
Nice video Simon. You actually presented a whole concept of progress and rewarding acts in this life. That's mainly by doing what someone likes to do and also by doing it as a human mind, not as a working machine. Much deeper meaning than the title says. Keep moving forward.
This goes way above the title of the video. You're incredible. Thanks for doing such great (and well written) content.
You're close to half a million, wow. Hope you get to 1 mil this year! Good Luck and thanks for doing this, it is incredibly helpful!
As a Finnish guy warming up to my first bigger amateur film project by watching different educational videos (your's is among the best) this really tickled my fancy :D
Paavo Ylämäki how is ur film going man?! :D
Amazing, truly...especially that last part about socializing and experiencing the world. And about googling "schools in Finland"
Dear Simon. I really love your channel and your rather philosophical weekly contribution to my RUclips experience. I would love to see more technical stuff from you like in older days and hope you can teach us more than philosophy. A fan from Austria.
learning doesnt have to feel like work, always on my mind! thank you Simon
I like this. a lot. You articulated your points well, and I absolutely loved not only the shots, but the editing.
I stumbled upon your channel, and found myself watching all of your videos, even though I don't shoot film. Im more into photography, but I keep watching! Your videos are meditative, strangely enough.
So far, the best video in each perspective of relating things!
Why not a thumbs up on King's Speech Simon? I loved it!
Been working on a screenwrite for a few months now! Pretty excited/excited about the process. This is my 1st big project so I'll use this as practice.
Great that you are doing this to help people that have no idea about film making. i realy got use of your videos. good job m8
Great info as always, Simon! Oh, and sneaky apple bite reference at 2:42! Lol
Glad somebody else caught that!
What i started doing was going to a public area and people watch. It sounds more effective than you think, some of the few ideas ive gotten were just from watching ppl. Thanks Again Simon !
Awesome video, I think the comparison really helps show you need to apply similar principles to learning an art as you do learning anything else in school.
Most favrte filmmaking tips I have ever heard on filmmaking...
I'm glad you made a video about his. I would even bring up stand up comedians with this too. They observe people and use this in their act. They may make it more interesting, or exciting by changing the story a little bit so that way they have a punchline, but as filmmakers we can do the same thing. People watch. And use that in our films.
the problem isn't that I don't know how to make films. I just don 't know where to start and get myself making something.
well just start by writting all that you have to do to make a film, like the script, what are you going to record etc. And then put those things into the pactice (sorry if i didn't explain well, english is not my first language)
Watch film riot they got tons of answers
mauricio tj absolutely!
Sunwakka All you will hear from people is to just start and yeah that's right, so here's how: get a paper and wright down all a list of ideas for a script, find your favorite and get a celtx acount, then wright your script. now if you don't have a camera film with your smart phone. Now you have a camera and a script, you need actors, my biggest price of advice would be for your first film start small ( a few actors and a few crew members). You can usually get actors by a add in a newspaper, on Craigslist at your local high school drama club, and your community college acting class. you will hear all this information about shot lists and storyboards, and all the different camera movements you can do, best thing you can do so you enjoy it and want to make more and get better is to stick with really simple camera movement lockdown shots will be most of it. And for story boards for your first film just don't even bother, instead of shot lists for your first film just line the script.
Your comment could make a good short. Frustrated filmmaker seeking inspiration. Maybe go nutty with the ways he tries to motivate himself. Watches movies while standing on head. Drinks strange concoctions that his favorite directors are rumored to drink. Re enacts scenes from his favorite shows, etc. In the end he gives up and we reveal that it was a movie in a movie the whole time and the whole idea came from this comment:)
keep it up Simon...thanks for the inspiration, especially the part about immersing yourself into life every day.
thanks for bein real.
well that last one page one day line changed my whole mindset about Filmmaking
I think these days it's way easier than ever to teach yourself film-making. It's no longer a closed industry that you can only get into from going to film school. Awesome perspective :)
Love you boy, you encourage me every week, from my heart, thank you!
Simon, it's so nice to see your channel growing!!!
Simon, great work and great storytelling again and again. Keep it up, it inspires us all!
falling in love with your works already
Thank you very much for that analogy, I have been struggling quite a bit with trying to create and have had lot's of blocks. I really like the way you explained how we can learn. I have watched a few of your videos so far. From if daily vlogging can be bad to what cameras are the best for film making. I feel like coming across your channel has kind of ripped me away from that whole "I'm not good enough" and "they are so much better" mentality. So thank you very much.
The best way I have ever heard it put, "Do something that you Love and you will never work a day in your life." A lot of people get stressed out and frustrated and all of that stuff because of this or that and really lose sight of your doing something that you love. The thing I do, when I get my head to far in or frustration comes down on me, I take a set back and say "I should be having fun and this is something that I really love doing." That always helps me get refocused. Remember guys and gals, HAVE FUN!!!
Thank you so much.... Your videos are really helping me through my film making path. This one may be the best one I have seen yet.
Agreed Simon!! congrats for finishing school and looking forward to your next videos!! It inspires me to create more!!!! Cheers
Thanks for putting Chance when you mentioned music!!!
Just watched this video again. I love it! It kept me totally engaged to the last clip
Simon, you're the one who got me listening to Good so it was a nice little easter egg to see. Thanks!
Awesome. I really needed this.
Finnland is Futuristic in so many ways. It's just unbelievable.
Your Compression is well thought and gives another inspiration. So thanks for every video you made as well as for this special one :)
its one of the best videoes i ever saw simon you are genius
Wow! Thank for sharing your thoughts
Wehey! This is a great video, Simon! I personally loved it! It's a new idea, the presentation was cool and relevant, and your points were all backed up nicely. Well done :)
Amaazing video! I got inspired by you and made my first film type video for this new year! Thank youu
Hey man. Just wanted to say I really love your videos. Such a great focus on substance over style, and you seem really intelligent with your approach to the subject matter. I came for some quick tips on how to shoot better youtube videos, but stayed for... well, everything else. Your channel is interesting even if you're not a hardcore filmmaker, in the same way Every Frame a Painting is interesting to me even though I'm not an editor, and I mean that as a compliment. :)
exactly the mindset ive been trying to create for myself. recess is important!
Wow, really appreciate your videos, and Im always stunned by your thoughtful, well written and quite philosophical texts😉
Keep up the great work
ps. Really liked the white words ok the black screen
I came to this conclusion by accident when I was feeling perpetually in a state of writers block from working on projects and never really enjoying the 'real (outside) world'. I still haven't found the right balance of everything yet tho. I still think working on stuff regularly and making things is still vital to improving... or at least helping in learning what you enjoy and don't enjoy doing.
Schools in Finland cool thank you for the tips Simon.
This kind of videos of yours inspire me to be a better filmmaker than before. Thank you Simon! 😊😊😊
I think the power of Finland's education is held in that kid's mullet 3:10
I enjoy your videos. Not only the pictures are good but also the content. I also like your calm voice
god.. simon you'r SO inspiring! i learn so much from you..
greetings from austria/Salzburg!
Your videos are really impressive. They are so inspirational and filled with emotion, I really hope I'll become as great as you at what you do!
Great video once again. It really is a daunting process to teach ourselves. In countries with less people in filmmaking like here in Portugal, and can also be solitary and that's not what you want from cinematography. Hope I get to collab more in the future I feel like when I do collab my learning curve accelerates. Until then making movies that involve my friends is a way of going about it!
Your videos are always perfect man. Best youtuber out there
This young man is BRILLIANT!
I loved this video. Definitely gave me a new perspective on what we filmmakers do.
and it also made math seem like a good thing too - good job hahaha