Well, in a year that should see a significant shift in the way films are made with new cameras, 2011 is as good a year as any for the independent filmmaker in all of us to make a few promises to ourselves about the upcoming year. So here are some ideas for new years resolutions whether you direct, shoot, crew or edit:
In 2011, I Will…
1. write that script I’ve been thinking about
2. shoot a film, no matter how big or small
3. help a friend shoot his film
4. raise more money for my film
5. book jobs throughout the year
6. learn three new tricks for my job
7. learn a new camera/program/piece of equipment
8. take up a new crew position on the side
9. take the next step up the ladder
10. reach down and help someone up the next step of the ladder
11. network and reach out to my fellow filmmakers more
12. see more independent films
13. be more forgiving of others’ mistakes on set
14. be more demanding of my crew than before
15. stand up for myself on set
16. eat less food at crafty
17. shoot more rehearsals
18. shoot less takes
19. finally figure out what a “circle of confusion” is
20. rely less on a monitor to pull focus
21. shoot on film for the first time
22. shoot on digital for the first time
23. take a job that professionally challenges me and makes me nervous
24. mentor an interested production assistant (PA)
25. not complain as much about “production” or “clients” or “talent” or “agency”
26. yell louder than the 1st A.D.
27. buy beer for the grips (or for camera, if you’re a grip :P)
28. use rendering time to do something productive instead of get on Facebook
29. make a new demo reel
30. find more creative solutions to simple problems on set
These are just a few examples of thousands of ways that you can better yourself in 2011. As a freelancer myself, I understand the importance of always improving my skills and abilities in the ever-changing game of filmmaking. For me, number 16 is looking like a good place to start! If you can think of any other great ideas, feel free to post them in the comments! In the meantime…
