Los Angeles, Film capital of the world, but no workshops....

[Nicocala]

Why? Why, why, why can't I find a decent workshop in LA. People flock here from all over the world just to study film. It's getting frustrating. So you're telling me I have to go all the way to Maine for a decent workshop? How about the Kodak Cinematography Workshops...only available in Texas and Miami or fucking Kansas. I'm not looking for reasons behind this...just a workshop. A decent workshop I can attend where I can learn more about cinematography, instead of wasting four years of my time and money on an education that I can learn in a few days. Thanks for your attention and any info would be greatly appreciated!

 

[viki]

"learn more about cinematography, instead of wasting four years of my time and money on an education that I can learn in a few days"

thats a bold statement, i understand your frustration but the first thing you learn, during those "four years", is practice practice practice, and you arent gonna learn what u want, in a "few days".....forget the magical workshop and get on any set, i dont mean to be rude, and i respect your opinion, but def. just wanted to add my two cents....as someone who is benefitting immensely from those "four years"

 

[viki]

"learn more about cinematography, instead of wasting four years of my time and money on an education that I can learn in a few days"

thats a bold statement, i understand your frustration but the first thing you learn, during those "four years", is practice practice practice, and you arent gonna learn what u want, in a "few days".....forget the magical workshop and get on any set, i dont mean to be rude, and i respect your opinion, but def. just wanted to add my two cents....as someone who is benefitting immensely from those "four years"

 

[dvcine]

Film school vs work

Film school vs work

Maine is a lovely place, no doubt about it! But if you're asking whether it's "best" to get straight to working vs. learning in a school or workshop environment, there are as many possible answers as there are people & schools! If you consider the following, maybe it can help you with a decision:

-access to expensive equipment, usually some variety of equipment
-access to "crews" - not pro yet, but learning to be, forming.
-the start of your most important asset, your network of associates, friends and crew members you'll have first-hand experience with.

The variety of experiences, equipment and networking options could be a deciding factor; your eagerness and enthusiasm to 'get going!' is invaluable too, and may be as powerful as the advantages of attending a structured, guided program - no school can ever teach everything to everyone, but by multiplying the odds, I think you could be well-served to at least consider school. There are an increasing number of excellent programs East, West North and South, and even in L.A. : ) , look around, and based on your golas (Cinematography? Sound? Writing? Not sure yet?), you'll be better prepared to make that call.

Best of luck.

Howard Phillips
ww.cdiabu.com

 

[element80]

If you fly me out to LA and pay me, I'll teach you everything I know, and then you'll be set to join the ASC! [/sarcasm]

 

[wielandsmith]

true but...

true but...

In L.A. there are tons of student/independent films. Just check the Los Angeles Craig's list. Though many are inexperienced, they offer you tons of opportunities to learn and to practice. The only problem is paying the bills in the meantime.

 

[Alessandro Machi]

I'd check out Kodak Hollywood, call them and see what seminars they know about.