Filmmaking

Sarthak Chawla | Creative Head & Co-founder | Mahakaal Productions

What is Filmmaking?

There are many nuances of a Career in Filmmaking. One should first understand What a Career in Filmmaking entails before investing time and effort to figure out How to start a Career in Filmmaking. The internet is a great source of information on Filmmaking, but it is second best to learning about the same from a real professional.

Creative Head & Co-founder Sarthak Chawla is an experienced professional with 1 year & 3 months in Filmmaking. Creative Head & Co-founder Sarthak Chawla defines Filmmaking as:

Filmmaking is the process of making a film, generally in the sense of films intended for extensive theatrical exhibition. Filmmaking involves a number of discrete stages including an initial story, idea, or commission, through screenwriting, casting, shooting, sound recording and reproduction, editing and screening the finished product before an audience that may result in a film release and exhibition. Filmmaking takes place in many places around the world in a range of economic, social, and political contexts, and using a variety of technologies and cinematic techniques.

How Creative Head & Co-founder Sarthak Chawla got into Filmmaking?

After doing my schooling from Amity International School, Noida, I did my graduation in Journalism & Mass Communication from VIPS, IP University, Delhi and after that I did one year internship from NDTV, India. During my internship I realized that I have an inclination toward Filmmaking, so after that I did Post Graduate Diploma in Film Making from AAFT, Noida. In 2017, I started my own Production House named Mahakaal Productions. Our services range from Ad Films, Corporate Films and Documentaries to Coffee Table books, Industrial Photography, Hospitality Photography, etc. Mahakaal Productions is a one stop to end your quest for creativity. I am the Co-founder and Creative head of Mahakaal Productions.

Creative Head & Co-founder Sarthak Chawla's Talk on Filmmaking

The Journey of a Filmmaker: Sarthak Chawla's Passion for Storytelling Sarthak Chawla's journey into the world of filmmaking reveals not just a career but a profound calling steeped in creativity and storytelling. With roots in theater from a young age and a degree in journalism and mass communication, Sarthak has embraced his passion for filmmaking wholeheartedly. This article will explore his experience, insights, and the intricate details of a filmmaker's life, including education, skills, challenges, and the daily rhythms of the craft. What Is Filmmaking? Filmmaking is a multifaceted art that combines various elements of storytelling, visual aesthetics, and technical mastery to create engaging narratives. At its core, it is about expressing oneself and connecting with audiences through art. As Sarthak Chawla emphasizes, creativity in filmmaking requires patience, perseverance, and an immense passion for the craft. From pre-production to editing, every stage of filmmaking plays a crucial role in bringing a director's vision to life. For Sarthak, narrative storytelling is a pathway to understanding human emotions, and the ability to observe and connect with people is fundamental for crafting meaningful films. Education Human Psychology Understanding human psychology is critical in filmmaking, as noted by Sarthak. It helps filmmakers observe and connect with their actors and audience, ensuring that psychological depth informs character portrayals. This insight allows directors to elicit authentic performances from their actors, enhancing the overall impact of the film. Film History Sarthak believes that knowing the history of cinema is invaluable for any filmmaker. It empowers them to understand how past technologies and styles have shaped the current landscape of film. This knowledge fosters a deeper appreciation for the evolution of the medium and inspires filmmakers to innovate while respecting the roots of storytelling. Editing Editing is often described as the art of juxtaposing scenes to craft a narrative. For Sarthak, a well-edited film can elevate even mediocre footage into an engaging story. This critical phase of filmmaking is where the project truly comes together, illustrating the significance of a skilled editor in achieving the director’s vision and creating a cohesive story. Acting Sarthak emphasizes the importance of understanding acting as a director. By learning about acting techniques, filmmakers become more sensitive to their actors’ needs and limits, which helps cultivate a supportive environment on set. This sensitivity directly impacts performances and the emotional depth of the film. Camera & Lighting Techniques Proficiency in camera and lighting techniques is essential for filmmakers to effectively communicate their vision. Sarthak highlights that lighting sets the mood for a scene, and a good understanding of these techniques ensures that filmmakers can create visually stunning narratives that resonate with audiences. Skills Script Writing Sarthak identifies scriptwriting as a foundational skill for filmmakers. A strong script sets the tone for the entire production, guiding actors and crew in their roles. Clarity in the screenplay is crucial to streamline production processes and ensure a successful shoot. Communication Skills Communication is at the heart of filmmaking. Whether it involves conveying ideas to a crew or directing actors, effective communication fosters a collaborative environment that is essential for creativity. Sarthak notes that strong communication helps filmmakers articulate their vision, leading to successful outcomes. Vision A filmmaker's vision drives the creative process from concept to execution. Sarthak stresses that clarity of vision allows directors to navigate challenges effectively and maintain focus throughout production. This vision shapes every aspect of the film and is integral to its success. Observation Filmmaking is rooted in keen observation, as filmmakers often draw inspiration from the world around them. Sarthak highlights the importance of observing human behavior to craft relatable characters and stories that resonate with audiences, emphasizing that real-life experiences fuel creativity. Leadership As the captain of the ship, a director must embody strong leadership qualities. Sarthak explains that a good leader is one who guides and inspires their team while remaining approachable. Effective leadership is essential in managing the diverse skill sets within a filmmaking team and achieving a unified goal. Positives Meeting New People One of the most fulfilling aspects of filmmaking is the opportunity to meet and collaborate with unique and talented individuals. Sarthak shares that working on film sets introduces him to creative minds, fostering relationships that enhance the artistic experience and result in impactful films. Fame & Money While passion drives filmmakers, Sarthak acknowledges that fame and financial success often follow when one dedicates themselves to the craft. He encourages aspiring filmmakers to remain focused on their passion, assuring them that recognition will come as a byproduct of hard work. Growth Filmmaking is not just a profession; it is a journey of personal and professional growth. Sarthak reflects on how his experiences on set have shaped him into a more capable and sensitive individual. This process of growth is directly tied to the passion and effort filmmakers invest in their projects. Travelling Filmmaking often involves travel, which broadens one's horizons and offers new perspectives. Sarthak expresses his love for exploring different cultures and locations, asserting that travel enriches his storytelling and deepens his understanding of the world. Challenges Time Management Time management poses a significant challenge in the fast-paced world of filmmaking. Sarthak notes that balancing schedules and ensuring timely deliveries can be daunting. Successful filmmakers must master this skill to navigate the complexities of production while meeting deadlines. Budgeting Budgeting is another critical aspect that filmmakers must contend with. Sarthak points out that securing funding and allocating resources effectively are fundamental to the success of any project. Proper budgeting allows filmmakers to realize their vision without compromising on quality. Patience Patience is a virtue in filmmaking, as many projects can take a long time to come to fruition. Sarthak emphasizes that aspiring filmmakers must cultivate patience, especially during periods of waiting for opportunities or the completion of projects. The creative process requires time, and understanding this can mitigate frustration. A Day Of Filmmaking A typical day on set for Sarthak begins with anxious anticipation. The night before a shoot is often sleepless as he mentally prepares for the day's challenges. Once on set, the atmosphere shifts, and the excitement of capturing the first shot energizes him and the crew. Despite the intensity, Sarthak finds joy and passion in the chaotic yet fulfilling environment of filmmaking, reminding future directors to embrace both the manual and mental labor involved in their craft. In conclusion, the journey of filmmaking is rich with creativity, challenges, and the potential for profound personal and professional growth. As Sarthak Chawla's story shows, pursuing passion in storytelling allows one to connect with others and express vital human experiences. For aspiring filmmakers, understanding the nuances of the craft is essential, as is maintaining a commitment to learning and growth. This is a field that not only shapes films but also shapes the individuals behind the camera, making it a truly rewarding profession.

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How to get into

Filmmaking?

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Links for this Talk

Creative Head & Co-founder Sarthak Chawla's LifePage:

[LifePage]
https://www.lifepage.in/page/sarthakchawla

LifePage Career Talk on Filmmaking

[Career]
https://www.lifepage.in/careers/filmmaking

[Full Talk]
https://lifepage.app.link/20180426-0002

[Trailer]
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=B8KQtuLrWC0

(Filmmaking, Sarthak Chawla, Mahakaal Productions, Creative Head, Movie Making, Documentary Making, Coffee Table Book, Short Movies, Film Direction, Film Production)

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