What do you do if you want to learn film production skills while working full-time? (2024)

If you have a specific goal, plan it like a production and break it down into smaller bitesize steps you can take as you can fit in. Notice where are the holes in your knowledge are and don't shy away -- find a way to keep going. Every step you take, even if it seems to stray from what you thought was the path, is still movement, and movement builds muscle; in this case your film production muscles.If you don't have a specific goal, then still use those muscles and start on a path. The only way to find out if its the wrong direction is to start walking on that road. Eventually you will get your bearings and move in the right direction.

Acknowledge constraints in time, resources, and skill level. Avoid expecting mastery in a few months or crafting a blockbuster on a limited budget. Instead, channel efforts into specific, achievable goals aligned with your interests. Learn to write a short script, shoot a video using your smartphone, or edit a montage with free software. Focusing on manageable tasks within your constraints facilitates gradual skill development, making film production a feasible pursuit alongside your full-time commitments.

Start in small steps. Produce small formats with 20” or 30”, grow to clips with 3:00 minutes and then expand the format. Most important is, that you progress learning by doing and experimenting what works for you and finding out, what works for others.

Maximizing online courses and resources is a paramount strategy for acquiring film production skills alongside a full-time job. Platforms like Udemy, Skillshare, Coursera, and Lynda offer diverse courses catering to different skill levels, budgets, and schedules, facilitating self-paced learning. Complement formal courses with free resources like blogs, podcasts, YouTube channels, and ebooks, offering insights and tips from industry experts and peers. This flexible approach ensures continuous skill development, leveraging the convenience of online learning to seamlessly integrate film production education into your full-time work routine.

I actually got into VFX for film by going to an After Effects User Group. Meeting those who are in your industry, even if its not the exact same field, can help you. If you are still trying to learn, you will pick up language and trends that are not taught in classrooms or on an online course. And by having a network of people, you can hear of opportunities that might fit your situation. In my case, at that User Group Meeting, an Art Director for a Brendan Frasier film said they needed a Texture Painter asap. I got that job as my first job, and the rest is history.

Engage in online forums, groups, or platforms to share your work, seek feedback, pose questions, and glean insights from peers. Explore local events, workshops, or meetups to connect with fellow filmmakers, fostering collaboration and mentorship opportunities. Networking not only enriches your learning experience but also opens doors to exposure, valuable opportunities, and a robust support system for your film production endeavors while balancing a full-time workload.

Apply acquired knowledge, test ideas, and embrace learning from mistakes. Set small challenges like creating a weekly one-minute video or engaging in online contests and festivals. Explore diverse genres, styles, techniques, and tools to discover your preferences. This iterative process of practicing and experimenting serves as a crucible for skill refinement, aiding in skill improvement, voice discovery, and portfolio building, ensuring tangible progress within the constraints of a demanding full-time schedule.

Prioritize work and learning goals, employing tools like calendars and planners to schedule tasks, set deadlines, and monitor progress. Establish a designated workspace—be it a corner, home office, or rented studio—equipped with necessary materials, equipment, and software. Organize resources efficiently to foster a focused, motivated, and productive environment. Making intentional time and space commitments ensures the convergence of professional responsibilities and filmmaking pursuits, facilitating sustained progress within the constraints of a demanding full-time schedule.