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I can't begin to tell you how much your lessons are helping me. I'm probably the brokest indie filmmaker on the face of the Earth, but your lessons have shown me that even with a limited budget, you can get great results by adhering to the basics of filmmaking. Thanks for all that you do.

Wow, this is an excellent demonstration of how topics like this should be taught. Felt like I was there and no detail was left out. Kudos. Truly makes your entire course well worth the price.

I should've skipped film school and just taken FilmSkills. Would've saved tons of time and tons of money.

I learned more from watching this than any other video I've seen. They should do this at film school.

There's something incredibly approachable about Jason's on-screen delivery. The content is top notch, and every single video I've seen here has been a goldmine of info and production value.

Fantastic! Finally, real info from a professional.

Really appreciated the details. This wasn't about a name brand type of light or piece of equipment but meat and potatoes filmmaking. Much appreciated.

Thanks a lot for creating this content. I signed up for FilmSkills Unlimited. Absolutely valuable course. I would go this far and say that this is the best online course on the topic. The catalog is broad and given the range of subject covered, the value is unbelievable. Highly recommended.

Finally, someone who tells the basics, but effective techniques in a simple way and not even losing the detail of the things. Good job, keep it up!

Man, you are seriously helpful. and seem like a super nice dude! Love your passion for light! All the best brother x

WOW! One of the best tutorials and breakdowns I've seen! Thank you so much for this!

😘😘😘😘🥰🥰🥰😍😍😍 Thank you sir for your wonderful efforts. Its almost great practical and theoretical for us. Its more than you get in film schools.

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"I signed up for FilmSkills Unlimited. Absolutely invaluable course. I would go this far and say that this is the best online course on the topic. The catalog is broad and given the range of subject covered, the value is unbelievable. Highly recommended."

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When we say FilmSkills Unlimited covers the ENTIRE filmmaking process, we really mean it.

Learn the requirements, challenges, and realities of working in the entertainment industry. Over 150 successful Hollywood filmmakers from all disciplines provide real world advice to help better prepare you for a career in the film industry.

How to Break into the Film Industry
Career Advice from the Pros	21:13
How to Get Your First Job	22:54
How to Move to Los Angeles	18:13
How to Make Money in the Film Industry	24:37
Realities of a Career in the Film Industry	27:18
The Art of Networking	22:17
How to Survive in Hollywood	17:00
Working Freelance	26:14

Quick Start lessons have been specifically designed to guide you through basic camera functions, audio recording, and production techniques. Each lesson includes a downloadable and printable quick start guide to help you on set.

Quick Start Lessons
Setting Up Your Camera	12:36
Basic Shooting Techniques	16:56
Basic Framing Techniques	16:27
Basic Audio Techniques	15:21
Bsic Production Techniques	15:51

The core screenwriting curriculum is organized into three stages, with all three guiding you through the screenwriting process.

Section 1: Story Structure – this series of lessons focuses on how to build and structure the story, manage sub plots, and how to address story pacing issues.
Section 2: Character Development – this series of lessons guides you through the process of creating believable characters, developing strong backstories, and writing convincing dialogue.
Section 3: The writing process – In this section, learn how to approach the writing process, from outline to rewrites.

Core Screenwriting Curriculum
Section 1: Story Structure
Lesson 1 – Beginning the Writing Process	–
Lesson 2 – Working with a Writing Partner	–
Lesson 3 – Finding Story Ideas and Inspiration	17:36
Lesson 4 – Developing a Marketable Idea	19:40
Lesson 5 – Story Formats	17:18
Lesson 6 – The 7 Plot Types	20:01
Lesson 7 – The Implications of Genre	16:40
Lesson 8 – The Three Act Structure	39:00
Lesson 9 – A-Story and Subplots	27:52
Lesson 10 – Techniques to Improve Story Pacing	14:40
Lesson 11 – Techniques to Engage the Audience	23:11
Section 2: Character Development
Lesson 12 – Creating an Amazing Protagonist	32:08
Lesson 13 – Creating the Perfect Antagonist	23:23
Lesson 14 – Conflict Types	22:33
Lesson 15 – How to Write Memorable Supporting Characters	18:54
Lesson 16 – Understanding Character Archetypes	24:44
Lesson 17 – Designing Personality and Building Backstory	29:06
Lesson 18 – How to Write Natural Dialogue	21:46
Section 3: The Writing Process
Lesson 19 – Title, Theme, and Log Lines	15:02
Lesson 20 – How to Write a Treatment and Outline	19:30
Lesson 21 – How to Format a Screenplay	18:13
Lesson 22 – How to Write the First Draft	10:34
Lesson 23 – Techniques for Rewriting and Refining Your Script	13:55
Lesson 24 – How to Market Your Script to Producers and Agents	21:18
Lesson 25 – Your Screenplay and the Real World	17:29

Additional Screenwriting Lessons
Beginning the Writing Process	–
Working with a Writing Partner	–
The Changing Landscape of Television	34:36
Defining and Writing Comedy	29:36
The Hidden Tools of Comedy	32:02
How to Become a Hollywood Writer Part I	10:53
How to Become a Hollywood Writer Part II	30:12
How to Work in a Television Writers Room	24:40
How to Write a Reality Television Show	22:22

Working with Final Draft Software
Final Draft – Script Basics	26:05
Final Draft – Using Templates	13:02
Final Draft – Story Organization	15:21
Final Draft – Distributing Your Script	17:37
Final Draft – Tips, Tricks, & Utilities	28:00
Final Draft – Production	23:15

Learn the business of filmmaking, with emphasis on the studio and corporate structures, how to raise and manage money, work with unions, and handle the financial aspects of filmmaking.

Producing and Development
The Studio System	33:09
Working for a Studio	26:19
Making a Business Plan	30:53
Packaging Your Movie	29:29
Agents and Managers	23:37
How to Pitch and Sell a Reality TV Show	28:54
How to Raise Money for your Movie	39:30
Taking Advantage of Tax Incentives	21:54
Forming a Production Company	32:54
How to Manage the Budget Money	36:07
Hiring the Crew	30:31
Working with Vendors	18:34
Unions and Guilds	35:40
Working with SAG/AFTRA	25:47

Scheduling and Budgeting
Beginning Pre-Production	–
Breaking Down the Script	19:11
Scheduling the Production	29:27
Scheduling the Day	30:03
How to Build a Budget	30:45
Production Insurance	19:45

The Crew
Crew Structures	–
Crew Positions	–
The Line Producer	37:33
The Unit Production Manager	28:57
Production Coordinator	19:53
1st Assistant Director	39:06
2nd Assistant Director	10:10
2nd 2nd Assistant Director	5:33
Production Assistants	31:36
Script Supervisor	28:44
Production Designer	21:14
The Art Director	11:26
Construction Coordinator	27:52
The Cinematographer	–
Camera Operator	26:13
1st Assistant Camera	11:24
2nd Assistant Camera	7:33
Key Grip	20:45
Best Boy	11:22
Grips	12:01
Working as a Grip	25:16
Dolly Grip	13:02
Gaffer	20:10
Best Boy Electric	9:57
Electricians	16:19

Cinematography
An Overview of Cinematography	–
How a Cinematographer Preps a Project	–

Camera and Lens
Building the Camera Package	–
How to Prep a Camera	14:37
Imaging Sensor and ISO	20:25
Frame Rates	20:02
Film vs Video	26:57
Tripods and Sliders	17:58
Introduction to Lenses	22:00
Lens Care	9:28
Focusing Techniques	23:21
How to Expose a Shot	25:16
F-stops and T-stops	17:42
The Zone System	23:03
Lens Focal Length	23:50
Depth of Field Tutorial	27:29
Macro Focus	9:28
Back Focus	4:51
The Shutter	12:54
Managing Your Media	–

Framing and Composition
The Visual Story	35:48
Composing the Shot	27:03
Creating Depth on Screen	25:43
Singles and Over the Shoulder Shots	24:25
Head Room and Lead Room	19:41
Eyelines	18:01
Screen Division and the Rule of Thirds	23:06
Screen Direction and the Rule of 180	23:06
Shot Types and Camera Movements	27:56
The Frame	24:45
Using a Clapboard	11:04
Using a Light Meter	12:34
Using a Production Monitor	14:29

Lighting
Introduction to Light and Exposure	23:27
Attributes of Light	34:02
Tungsten Lighting	11:01
HMI Lighting	20:02
Kino-Flo Fluorescent Lighting	14:02
LED Lighting	7:10
How to Build a Light Kit	15:31
Low Budget Lighting Tools	9:37
Reducing Light	26:43
Softening Light	26:50
Working with Reflected Light	19:18
Shaping Light	23:53
Color Temperatures	26:22
Lighting a Scene	24:42
Lighting Daytime Exteriors	23:10
Working with Mixed Light	22:32
Lighting People	23:36
Three Point Lighting	21:28
Key Light Techniques	25:20
Advanced Lighting Techniques	17:15
Green Screen Techniques	25:22
Lighting Demo – Kitchen Counter Daytime	19:14
Lighting Demo – Bedroom Dialogue Scene – Nighttime	23:19
Lighting Demo – Bedroom Daytime	20:19
Lighting Demo – Bathroom Daytime	24:22
Lighting Demo – Living Room Nighttime	12:34
Lighting Demo – Kitchen Table Daytime, Part I	19:59
Lighting Demo – Kitchen Table Daytime, Part II	13:20
Lighting Demo – Living Room Morning	16:21
Lighting Demo – Dining Room Nighttime	23:04

Grip and Rigging
C-Stands	17:59
Clamps	23:36
Stands	16:37
Rigging	17:59
Grips Support	8:02
Grips Rigs	19:09
Butterflies and Overheads	18:51
Dolly and Track	29:18
Grips Tools	9:20
Knots for On Set Rigging	–

The directing curriculum has been divided into two sections. The first focuses on the director/actor dynamic and provides tools to help you communicate with actors, determine underlying motivations and subtext, and techniques for getting the performance they want.

The second section focuses on the director’s craft, focusing on how to shoot a scene, blocking and coverage techniques, and how to prepare for a day on set.

Directing Actors
Analyzing Character	25:37
Rehearsing with Actors	25:37
Rehearsing Exercises	24:47
The Art of Directing Actors	30:07
Acting in a Changing Industry	19:48
Acting Techniques	–
Acting Techniques for the Screen	28:33
How to Direct Actors on Set	36:29
Common Directing Mistakes and How to Avoid Them	21:20
How to Direct Background Extras	29:54

The Directors Craft
Beginning a New Project	30:29
Developing the Visual Look of Your Movie	38:22
A Day as a Director	–
How to Shoot a Scene	39:23
How to Direct a Scene	31:19
Blocking Actors	34:22
Basic Coverage	20:21
Advanced Coverage	26:18
How to Direct a Chase Scene	21:39
How to Create Invisible Camera Moves	25:42
Storyboards and Pre-Visualization	31:02
How to Create a Shotlist	17:48
Continuity and Script Notes	23:26
Working with the Military	20:23
Reality Show Interview Techniques	25:00

Production Design
The Art Department	29:54
How to Design a Set	25:28
Set Construction – Building Your Set	35:15
How to Dress Your Set	33:16
Creating the Look of the Environment	32:10
Props	36:16
Tour a Prop House	6:08

Shooting on Location
Finding Locations	19:13
Film Commissions	24:53
Working with Location Owners	34:47
Shooting on a Studio Backlot	–
Film Permits	22:58
Location Tech Scouting	26:03
Community Relations	25:00

Production Life
What to Bring to Set	9:31
Filmmaker’s Toolkit	10:40
Proper Set Etiquette and Behavior	15:44
Working with Difficult Personalities	22:56
Walkie Talkie Etiquette	14:59
A Day on Set	–

Audio Recording
The Physics of Sound	25:33
How Microphones Work	21:56
Microphone Pick-Up Patterns	18:55
Audio Pre-Production	26:36
Lavalier Microphones	18:18
The Microphone Boom	17:29
Boom Operating Techniques on Set	20:36
How to Record Audio on Location	23:02
Recording the Audio	35:09
Audio Configurations	20:00
Working with Cables and Adapters	19:18

Documentary Filmmaking
Introduction to Documentary Filmmaking	24:51
Finding the Story	28:18
Documentary Pre-Production	18:51
Choosing the Right Gear	32:08
Finding the Interview Location	18:53
Interview Camera Set-Ups	25:05
Preparing for the Interview	33:03
How to Conduct an Interview	32:05
Ethics and Objectivity	21:37
How to Shoot Amazing B-Roll Footage	21:52
Field Shooting Techniques	20:17
Editing a Documentary	28:41

Safety Training
The Attitude of Safety	20:45
Basic On Set Safety	34:49
Equipment Use and Safety	18:47
On Location Safety	20:32
Studio Facilities Safety	24:14
Vehicle and Roadway Safety	21:13
Shooting Moving Vehicles	19:34
Lighting Equipment Safety	26:46
Grip and Rigging Safety	30:36
Electrical Safety I	39:10
Electrical Safety II	29:51
Lifts, Trucks, and Tools	24:25
Weapon and Prop Safety	29:08
Pyrotechnics and Special Effects	24:06
Environmental Safety	25:45

Get an inside look into the technical and artistic process of the post production process. Lessons cover data management and workflow, working with producers and clients, the art of the edit, plus the process of audio mixing and scoring.

Editing
Introduction to Editing	–
Hiring an Editor	10:46
Working with an Editor	20:23
Concepts of Editing	37:39
Data Management and Workflow	26:39
The Assembly Cut	21:33
Stock Footage	20:58
How to Edit a Dialogue Scene	34:27
Editing Action	24:56
The Rough Cut	19:04
Test Screenings	21:34
The Fine Cut	14:44
Online and Offline Editing	8:28
Color Grading	15:40
Understanding Compression	–

Audio Post-Production
Intro to Audio Post Production	24:49
ADR	30:31
Directing Actors in ADR	28:19
Foley	33:33
Sound Effects	24:49
Mixing the Audio	31:18

Music Composition
Emotion Through Music	28:25
The Who and How of Music	31:29
Working with a Composer	47:33
Music Licensing	33:15

Learn the marketing and distribution process of a movie. These lessons can be paired with the producing and screenwriting lessons. This series of lessons is intended to demystify the distribution process and help you understand the business of filmmaking, what distributors are seeking, and how to identify and reach the target audience.

Film Marketing
Film Marketing	15:41
Reaching Your Audience	26:05
Designing the Key Art	16:11
Making a Movie Trailer	27:23
Building Your Website	5:43
Building a Press Kit	13:35
Working with the Media	17:56

Distribution
Introduction to Distribution	32:55
Film Ratings and the MPAA	14:09
Domestic Distribution	23:32
Foreign Distribution	37:19
Mistakes Filmmakers Make at Film Festivals	30:05
Film Festivals	26:46
Online Distribution	27:34

Wow, this is an excellent demonstration of how topics like this should be taught. Felt like I was there and no detail was left out. Kudos. Truly makes your entire course well worth the price.

I should've skipped film school and just taken FilmSkills. Would've saved tons of time and tons of money.

I learned more from watching this than any other video I've seen. They should do this at film school.

There's something incredibly approachable about Jason's on-screen delivery. The content is top notch, and every single video I've seen here has been a goldmine of info and production value.

Fantastic! Finally, real info from a professional.

Really appreciated the details. This wasn't about a name brand type of light or piece of equipment but meat and potatoes filmmaking. Much appreciated.

Finally, someone who tells the basics, but effective techniques in a simple way and not even losing the detail of the things. Good job, keep it up!

Man, you are seriously helpful. and seem like a super nice dude! Love your passion for light! All the best brother x

WOW! One of the best tutorials and breakdowns I've seen! Thank you so much for this!

😘😘😘😘🥰🥰🥰😍😍😍 Thank you sir for your wonderful efforts. Its almost great practical and theoretical for us. Its more than you get in film schools.

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Download hundreds of call sheets, budget templates, sound logs, crew deal memos, equipment rental forms… basically every form you may ever need. PLUS the storyboards, call sheets, directors notes, script notes, and much more from Emmy-winning directors, producers, and writers. See how the pros do it.

$149 Value – FREE

PLUS All 6 FILMSKILLS REFERENCE GUIDES - FREE

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As a FilmSkills Unlimited Member, you will also receive all 6 comprehensive FilmSkills reference guides. Quickly access screenwriting, cinematography, production safety, producing, editing, and directing techniques.

$199 Value – FREE

" Thanks for all the great content on FilmSkills. I have never come across anything like it. Its truly amazing! "

Roger Jonsson

FilmSkills user

Includes the content from all 12 FilmSkills Courses
Includes 75 FREE bonus lessons
325 Filmmaking Tutorials
120+ Hours of Video
Learn from 70 Academy Award and Emmy winning filmmakers
Over 200 Downloadable Contracts and Forms
Career and Technical Skills
FREE access to all new content
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6 FREE reference guides, packed with 1,946 pages of info

After graduating with my third college degree, I wanted to learn cinematography without sitting through classroom and lab a few nights a week for several semesters. I researched all the national and local “film schools” with the least expensive being around $10,000.00.

I found Filmskills and immediately, liked the site layout, the course, and more importantly Jason’s approach to online instruction/teaching. Jason Tomaric is personable, humble, and an excellent teacher. The guest instructors are industry icons who add their expert knowledge to enhance learning and comprehension. Filmskills is legit! The videos are on point! Everything is FANTASTIC!

Quentin Miles

Filmmaker, Brutha' Q Filmz

MovieMaker Magazine ranked FilmSkills among the top 10 game-changing companies for independent filmmakers.

"It's difficult to think of a step in the process that FilmSkills fails to address."

– American Cinematographer Magazine

"Jason proves that top-notch production values are within the reach of anyone who has ever dreamt of making his own movie. Jason knows what he's talking about, because he's actually done it!"

"Absolutely the most in-depth, informative and entertaining filmmaking course out there. It takes you through everything you need to know, demystifies the process and shows you exactly how to make a movie, even if you don't have a huge budget!"

"As an actor with over 200 national commercial credits, 15 feature film credits and countless TV guest star appearances, l've seen it all and I can certainly attest that FilmSkills teaches you the way it really is and will help the first time filmmakers avoid common pitfalls that I've seen destroy productions."

"Finally... a compact and complete resource for independent filmmakers! Thank you, Jason Tomaric for succinctly compiling all the most pertinent and useful information! Your generosity in sharing your success formula is so refreshing."

"This is an indispensable filmmaking companion. Amazingly easy to follow and full of valuable insights, no serious filmmaker should be without FilmSkills."

"FilmSkills is as good as it can possibly get. You’ll be hard-pressed to find a better online program than FilmSkills."

– Mike Flanagan, Microfilmmaker Magazine

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Frequently Asked Questions

When does this course start?

It start as soon as you sign up, and it’s open to you forever. And, you can access the FilmSkills content on any desktop, laptop, or tablet.

Do I really get to keep it for life?

Sure do… and not just the current content, but all the future content we produce… and we have a lot coming.

Can I preview the content?

Of course! You can watch some of the FilmSkills content on our FREE Training page, which you can explore here.

Can I get personal tutoring?

Absolutely! Jason is always available to answer your questions via e-mail,, and he usually gets back you within a day or so, depending on his shooting schedule.

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Sample Footage

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Personal Consultation

"I signed up for FilmSkills Unlimited. Absolutely invaluable course. I would go this far and say that this is the best online course on the topic. The catalog is broad and given the range of subject covered, the value is unbelievable. Highly recommended."

See What's Included

When we say FilmSkills Unlimited covers the ENTIRE filmmaking process, we really mean it.

Over 125 top film schools added FilmSkills to their curriculum

Free Bonuses and Discounts

Get even more with FilmSkills Unlimited

FREE Contract and Form Library

PLUS All 6 FILMSKILLS REFERENCE GUIDES - FREE

1,946 pages of knowledge at your fingertips

Quentin Miles

Filmmaker, Brutha' Q Filmz

MovieMaker Magazine ranked FilmSkills among the top 10 game-changing companies for independent filmmakers.

"It's difficult to think of a step in the process that FilmSkills fails to address."

"FilmSkills is as good as it can possibly get. You’ll be hard-pressed to find a better online program than FilmSkills."

Save over 70% with

One Time Payment

LIFETIME ACCESS

One-time payment of only

$949

Pay with credit card

Pay with Venmo, PayPal, Pay Now, Pay Later, or Monthly payment options

Frequently Asked Questions

When does this course start?

Do I really get to keep it for life?

Can I preview the content?

Can I get personal tutoring?

Need help? Contact us at [email protected]

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