I've done both. I never went to school at all. So I've never
had that dilemma.

Have you considered going to school for cinematography
while making short films on your own as a director? That
way you get your schooling in both. There are many DP's
who have moved from behind the camera to the directors
chair. There are even many people who do both.

Does it have to be one or the other?

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The aim of an argument or discussion should not be victory, but progress.
Joseph Joubert, essayist (1754-1824)

Salil,
A few questions for you. You stated you have been making films for 5 years handling all of the jobs...why do you want to go to film school? Do you want the education or the degree or both? Do you feel you need to go to film school to make films?

quote:

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?i?Originally posted by Kess?/i?
?br?Salil,
A few questions for you. You stated you have been making films for 5 years handling all of the jobs...why do you want to go to film school? Do you want the education or the degree or both? Do you feel you need to go to film school to make films?

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The main reason I have to go to film school is because my parents say I have to go to college and get a degree so it might as well be something enjoyable I figure. (and what I'm hoping to do as a career) I have made about 8-10 short films and a ton of other kinds of videos so no film school isn't necessary for making movies but I think it should make things a little easier. (working with your friends in a high school that has no real film program to make a movie can be a nightmare)

Check out some of my work:
www.salsunproductions.com

I was shocked how much work my cinematographer put in moving the lights and things around. i'm glad he knew what he was doing because I certainly didn't (beyond the basics that is) and the end product looked great.

RJSchwarz
San Diego, CA

There is othing wrong with getting a degree in film, but as far as it getting you a job that is no guarantee. You are 100% right about doing something you like...something you are intersted in. A business degree isn't a bad idea either and getting a graduate degree in film...especially since most of the film business is business. Your parents are looking out for your best interests by forcing you to go to school. A degree is always a good thing to have...no matter what subject matter it is in...it shows that you have what it takes to complete an area of study. So if you are going to school to get a degree that is great. If you were thinking that the film degree would get you a job directing, etc. then that is not a guarantee. Learn the cinematographers job...they are the true artists in my opinion. Painting with light!

Kess makes a lot of sense. A film degree is useless (in my very
biased opinion) but since your parents are insisting you go to
school, getting a business degree would be very helpful.

Over the years I've learned so much about the business of
filmmaking. I can see the advantage if I had this knowledge
when I was getting started.

=============================================
The aim of an argument or discussion should not be victory, but progress.
Joseph Joubert, essayist (1754-1824)

If you do major in Business (a good idea if you ask me) there is nothing stopping you from taking film classes or volunteering on each and every student film project you can. They are always gonna be looking for additional help. Especially when it comes time for financing and you might be very well placed to learn some stuff in that regard.

RJSchwarz
San Diego, CA