Filmmaking

Pradeep Sharma | Director & Writer | Siddhartha Cine Arts

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. It is best to learn about Filmmaking from a real professional, this is akin to getting it from the horse's mouth.

Director & Writer Pradeep Sharma is an experienced professional with 3 years in Filmmaking. Director & Writer Pradeep Sharma describes 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 Director & Writer Pradeep Sharma got into Filmmaking?

After completing my schooling from Govt Boys School Mandsaur, I did my BA from Vikram University, Ujjain. Thereafter, I did my D Ed from Govt District Education Institute of Mandsaur, MP. After which I started teaching, while teaching I also wrote articles for newspapers and local Magazine. Then, I joined the distance learning PGD Course in Journalism from Makhanlal Chaturvedi National University, Bhopal. I worked for various organizations named NDTV India, Sahara Samay, Voice of India, Times Today channel and others as a Stinger, Reporter, Anchor, Special Correspondent and Desk Editor for about 16 years. I am working on few movie projects, one of them named Yashodharman, The Great Warrior which is written and directed by me would soon release in Movie Theaters.

Director & Writer Pradeep Sharma's Talk on Filmmaking

The Art of Filmmaking: A Deep Dive into a Rewarding Career Filmmaking stands as a transformative art form that blends creativity, technology, and storytelling to produce compelling narratives that resonate with audiences. Those who embark on this path often find fulfillment in their ability to create art that can entertain, educate, and evoke powerful emotions. In this article, we will explore what filmmaking entails, the necessary education and skills needed, the positive aspects and challenges of the profession, and what a typical day looks like behind the scenes. What Is Filmmaking? Filmmaking is the intricate process of producing motion pictures, which can range from feature films to documentaries. This craft involves various stages, including scripting, directing, acting, cinematography, and post-production. Each phase requires a unique set of skills and a profound understanding of storytelling. As Pardeep Sharma describes, filmmaking is not merely about glamour; it’s about conveying powerful messages through visuals and narratives. For instance, films that tackle social issues can bring about awareness and change, showcasing the profound impact that a well-crafted story can have on society. Education Acting Education in acting focuses on developing skills crucial to portraying characters convincingly. Actors must hone their ability to express a myriad of emotions that connect with the audience. Pardeep highlights the significance of confidence in acting; without it, performers struggle to engage viewers authentically. Institutions often teach aspiring actors how to deliver lines effectively while embodying their characters’ quirks and emotions, essential for impactful storytelling. Direction A film director serves as the visionary behind each project, ensuring that the story comes to life. Direction courses focus on critical skills such as narrative structure, shot composition, and teamwork with various departments. As Pardeep notes, understanding the purpose of each scene is fundamental; the director must always ask, "Why am I making this film?" This introspection leads to stronger artistic choices, enhancing the film's emotional and aesthetic qualities. Editing Editing is the final touch in filmmaking, where raw footage is transformed into a polished narrative. An editor must possess technical skills to enhance storytelling through pacing and sequencing. Having knowledge of editing as a director, as Pardeep showcases through examples like renowned filmmaker Gulzar, allows for cohesive storytelling that respects the narrative’s rhythm and flow. A well-edited film can significantly amplify the emotional resonance of the story. Script Writing The bedrock of any film is its script, which outlines the dialogue and actions of characters. It is essential for aspiring filmmakers to understand the fundamentals of scriptwriting, as a compelling script lays the foundation for all other production aspects. Institutions provide workshops that dive into dialogue crafting and scene creation, allowing future directors and writers to explore their creative potential while learning from industry veterans. Human Psychology Understanding human behavior is a critical component of filmmaking. Sensitivity to the audience's emotional responses can elevate a filmmaker's work. Pardeep emphasizes the importance of empathy in directing, stating that a director must recognize the actors’ emotional states to facilitate great performances. This psychological insight enables filmmakers to create relatable characters whose stories resonate deeply with viewers. Film History An in-depth knowledge of film history enriches a filmmaker’s perspective and informs their creative choices. By studying past successes and failures, filmmakers can avoid repeating mistakes while embracing innovative techniques. As articulated by Pardeep, understanding the evolution of cinema aids in crafting projects that feel both timeless and relevant. Skills Sensitivity A successful filmmaker possesses a keen sensitivity to the nuances of storytelling and character development. This quality allows them to understand different perspectives and write narratives that connect with a diverse audience. Pardeep attests that sensitivity can lead to profound storytelling, producing films that inspire change and evoke conversation. Hard Work Film production requires relentless hard work, often under challenging conditions. Directors need stamina to navigate long hours on set and manage the diverse needs of a film crew. Pardeep underscores that historical films like "Mughal-e-Azam," which took a decade to complete, exemplify the dedication required to bring a vision to fruition. Time Management Managing time is essential in filmmaking, where schedules can be tight and budgets limited. Effective time management helps ensure that all scenes are shot within set timelines, reducing costs and maintaining crew morale. Pardeep describes the importance of planning each shoot day meticulously, balancing artistic aspirations with logistical realities. Decision Making Directors must make a multitude of critical decisions daily, from casting choices to scene setups. These decisions can significantly influence the film’s outcome. Pardeep emphasizes that a director's ability to make informed, strategic choices is fundamental to successfully navigating the complexities of filmmaking. Positives Name & Fame One of the most appealing aspects of filmmaking is the potential for recognition. Successful films can catapult directors and actors into the limelight, allowing them to influence the industry and society. Pardeep points out that a well-received film not only boosts a filmmaker’s visibility but also opens doors for future projects, creating lasting careers in an often volatile industry. Recognition Beyond fame, filmmakers gain respect and admiration for their creative efforts. Receiving awards and accolades can affirm the time and passion invested into a project. Filmmakers who address relevant societal issues may find their work celebrated, further establishing their legacy and impact within the industry. Challenges Budgeting Filmmaking often requires navigating complex budgets and financial constraints. Pardeep highlights that convincing producers about the potential success of a unique story can be a daunting task. Filmmakers must balance creativity with economic feasibility, ensuring that their artistic vision aligns with investor expectations. Marketing & Promotion In today’s competitive landscape, effective marketing and promotion are essential for a film’s success. Filmmakers must ensure their projects reach targeted audiences, often requiring collaboration with marketing agencies to strategize effective campaigns. Pardeep discusses how establishing a strong network is vital in securing promotional opportunities. Patience The filmmaking process demands immense patience, as projects can take years from conception to completion. Pardeep reflects on the need for filmmakers to adopt a long-term perspective, accepting that success may not come immediately and that their work requires persistence and dedication. A Day Of Filmmaking A typical day for a filmmaker starts with preparation and coordination of the crew. As described by Pardeep, mornings often begin with setting up a shooting location, ensuring all equipment and personnel are in place. This includes rehearsals for actors and final checks on lighting and sound, which are crucial for achieving high-quality footage. As the day progresses, the director maintains communication with their team, providing guidance and adjustments to adapt to on-site conditions. The filming schedule may demand adapting shots to various times of the day, highlighting the necessity of flexibility and collaboration among crew members. By the end of the day, the satisfaction of completing a shoot is coupled with the anticipation of bringing those captured moments together during editing, showcasing the rewarding and dynamic nature of the filmmaking process. In conclusion, filmmaking is a complex yet fulfilling career that requires a blend of creativity, technical skills, and emotional intelligence. As Pardeep Sharma passionately illustrates, the journey is not just about creating entertainment but about weaving narratives that can elicit change and connect with audiences worldwide. For those willing to embrace the challenges, the world of filmmaking offers abundant joys and opportunities to leave a lasting impact.

Install the LifePage App to:

(for Free) Watch Director & Writer Pradeep Sharma’s full Filmmaking Career Talk

₹ Do a Self Assessment on Filmmaking to calculate your Dream Index, which is defined as:

According to Pradeep Sharma your chances of success in Filmmaking is __%

Access your personalized Dream Index Report which will have all your Dream Indices sorted in descending order.

How to get into

Filmmaking?

If you are want to get into Filmmaking, start by investing in a Career Plan.

The 14 hour process, guided by a LifePage Career Advisor, will help you introspect and check whether your interest in Filmmaking is merely an infatuation or is it truly something you wish to do for the rest of your life.

Next, your Career Advisor will help you document how you can get into Filmmaking, what education and skills you need to succeed in Filmmaking, and what positives and challenges you will face in Filmmaking.

Finally, you will get a Career Plan stating which Courses, Certifications, Trainings and other Items you need to do in the next 7 years to become world’s best in Filmmaking.

LifePage Career Plan

14 hour personalized guidance program

Your LifePage Career Advisor facilitates your guided introspection so that you systematically explore various Career options to arrive at a well thought out Career choice.

Next: your Advisor helps you figure out how you will get into your chosen Career and how will you develop the skills needed for success in your Chosen Career.

LifePage Plan will not stop at saying "to become an Architect study Architecture". It will guide you on which Certifications, Trainings and Other items you need to do along with your Architecture education to become the world's best Architect.

Links for this Talk

Director & Writer Pradeep Sharma's LifePage:

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

LifePage Career Talk on Filmmaking

[Career]
https://www.lifepage.in/careers/filmmaking-4

[Full Talk]
https://lifepage.app.link/20180430-0002

[Trailer]
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=Vs3NZ2maXl0

(Filmmaking, Pradeep Sharma, Siddhartha Cine Arts, Yashodharman, Film Direction, Writer, Short Movies, Film Production, Cinema, Bollywood)

Similar Talks

Video Editing

Ajmer Singh
Video Editor Head | HNN 24*7

[ 4 years & 8 months Experience ]

Video editor is a person who manipulates and rearranges video shots to create a new work. It is the responsibility of the editor to make its videos attractive to the viewers.

"I started video editing in 2009. Since 2015, I have been working with HNN 24*7 as a video editor head."

Cinematography

Karm Chawla
Cinematographer | Kannada Film Industry

[ 5 years & 8 months Experience ]

Basically Cinematography is the art of photography and camerawork in film-making or art of motion-picture photography by recording light or other electromagnetic radiation, either electronically by means of an image sensor, or chemically by means of a light-sensitive material such as film stock.

"After completing my schooling, I did BA (Hons) in English from Hansraj College (DU). After that I studied Film from LV Prasad and Academy, Chennai. I have working as a freelance cinematographer since 2013."

Scriptwriting

Prateeque Ojha
Scriptwriter | Various Storywriting Assignments

[ 8 years & 10 months Experience ]

Scriptwriting is an art and craft of writing scripts for mass media such as feature films, television productions or video games. It is frequently a freelance profession.

"I did my graduation from DU in 2002 and then I joined Satyajit Ray Film & Television Institute, Kolkata, there I specialized in screenplay writing. Since 2008, I have been working as a freelance scriptwriter."

Technical Management

Bhupendra Chauhan
CTO | HNN 24*7

[ 27 years Experience ]

Technical management involves the duties a news channel must perform for the technical operations. This involves management related to crew management with related tasks, logistics related or equipment related to operations as well as operations, service and maintenance.

"I started my career with NDTV as a freelancer in the year 1990 and worked there for almost 10 years. After that I started working with News 24 in the year 2007. Then I started working as a freelancer and worked different-2 companies in Delhi. Later on I came back to Dehradun and started working with HNN 24*7. I have been working at HNN 24*7 as Chief Technical Officer since it started."

Cinematography

Mukesh Khugsal
Cinematographer | Various Creative Assignments

[ 17 years Experience ]

Cinematography is the science or art of motion-picture photography by recording light or other electromagnetic radiation, either electronically by means of an image sensor, or chemically by means of a light-sensitive material such as film stock.

"I was always interested in Photography and Cinema. After completing my graduation from Delhi University, I started working with Inframe Creations, Delhi."

Direction

Ajay Govind
Filmmaker | Sisyphus Rocks Films

[ 13 years & 11 months Experience ]

A film director is a person who directs the making of a film. Generally, a film director controls a film's artistic and dramatic aspects, and visualizes the script while guiding the technical crew and actors in the fulfillment of that vision.

"After completing Bachelors in English Literature from St. Stephen's College, Delhi University, I did Media Studies Course from St. Stephen's College, Delhi University and here I was introduced to Film Theory and History and that was the time I discovered my interest in Direction. I have made over 40 documentaries, 5 music videos and Directed one feature film that released in 2014, "After the 3rd Bell"."

Wildlife Filmmaking

Sumanth Kuduvalli
Wildlife Fimmaker | Various Assignments

[ 6 years & 8 months Experience ]

Wildlife filmmaking is an exhilarating career nevertheless. If you are committed to wildlife conservation, are interested in filmmaking and have the patience to sit quietly for hours in the forest to get shots, then experiment with a short, low-budget film.

"After doing my Diploma in Wildlife Filmmaking and Photography from Craft, I joined Nikon as a Technical Associate in South India. I started Wildlife Filmmaking in 2012."

Direction

Abhishek Maindola
Director | Sambhav Theatre Group, Dehradun

[ 13 years Experience ]

A film director is a person who directs the making of a film. Generally, a film director controls a film’s artistic and dramatic aspects and visualizes the script while guiding the technical crew and actors in the fulfillment of that vision.

"I started my acting career in theatre in 2001. I experience a lot of things and I am satisfied with my roles. After acting, in 2004 I directed my first self written play “Female Feticide”, other than this I acted in Hindi cinema as well."

Filmmaking

Sarthak Chawla
Creative Head & Co-founder | Mahakaal Productions

[ 1 year & 3 months Experience ]

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.

"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."

Film Direction

Harsh Badheka
Assistant Director | Various Assignments

[ 5 years & 10 months Experience ]

A film director is a person who directs the making of a film. Generally, a film director controls a film's artistic and dramatic aspects and visualizes the screenplay (or script) while guiding the technical crew and actors in the fulfillment of that vision.

"I have completed my schooling from St Mary's School, Mumbai followed by Graduation & Post Graduation in Hindi from Kishinchand Chellaram College, Mumbai University. I have done movies such as Happy Bhag Jayegi, Jia aur Jia as a part of Direction team."

Video Editing

Gaurav Bhatt
Founder & Editor | Octopus Films

[ 3 years Experience ]

Video Editing or Non-Linear Video Editing is the process of taking video that is raw, meaning untouched or newly recorded. It is the manipulation and arrangement of video shots. Video editing is used to structure and present all video information, including films and television shows, video advertisements and video essays.

"After doing my schooling from Ranchi, Jharkhand, I did BJMC from Indraprastha University, Delhi. After that, I did my M Sc in mass Communication from Punjab Technical University and then my post graduate diploma in Direction & Film Making from AAFT, Noida. I am working as a Senior Promo Producer for CNN- NEWS 18 since 20004. In 2015, I started my own Production House named Octopus Films."

Direction

Ayush Kohli
Director | Liberal Arts Productions

[ 2 years Experience ]

A film director is a person who directs the making of a film. Generally, a film director controls a film's artistic and dramatic aspects and visualizes the screenplay (or script) while guiding the technical crew and actors in the fulfillment of that vision.

"I have done B Sc in Airlines Tourism & Hospitality from Lovely Professional University. Taking my interest forward I did a Course in Acting & Direction from Asian Academy of Film & Television, Noida Film City. I also did Modeling for some time where I was a Selfie King in North India Modeling Show. I am a Director at Liberal Arts Productions."

Filmmaking

Omanshu Saini
Co- Founder | Doon Photowalk

[ 3 years & 8 months Experience ]

Filmmaking is the process of making a film. 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.

"I did my schooling from Raja Ram Mohan Roy, and BBA from Graphic Era, Dehradun. I did my masters in Mass Communication from Doon University. Then I decided to open a company called Doon Photowalk with some of my friends in 2015."

Filmmaking

Amaan Iqbal
Film Maker | Various Creative Assignments

[ 6 years & 6 months Experience ]

Filmmaking

Amber Sharma
Managing Director, Producer & Director | Mowgli Productions

[ 8 years Experience ]

Filmmaking is the process of making a film, generally in the sense of films intended for extensive theatrical exhibition.

"I started my career in 2002 at Keoladeo National Park as a naturalist and in 2003 went to Kanha Tiger Reserve and Bandhavgarh National Park to start my career in wildlife photography to showcase natural history. In 2007, I began film making and founded Mowgli Productions. My directorial debut was on snow leopards it took me 4 years to film snow leopards at an altitude of 15000 feet. In 2010, I began producing and presenting international movies. I have worked on films like The Man in Maze, Mumbai Connection and Series Life of Mafia, Game- Short Film Series."

Film Production

Pratibha Kotak
Production Supervisor | Octopus Film

[ 1 year & 7 months Experience ]

Production refers to the tasks that must be completed or executed during the filming or shooting. This includes tasks such as setting up scenes, the capture of raw footage and usage of set designs, to name a few of the many preproduction tasks and evolves into the postproduction stage.

"After doing my BA in Arts from Vikram University, I did my masters from IGNOU in Organizational Psychology and thereafter I did my post graduate diploma in TV Journalism & Communication from Asian Academy of Film & Television, Noida. I worked with Octopus Films as a Production Supervisor."

Video Production

Pankaj Sati
Video Director | Studio 6 Productions

[ 8 years Experience ]

Video production is the process of creating video by capturing moving images (videography), and creating combinations and reductions of parts of this video in live production and post-production.

"I have done animation , VFX and Special effects course from Maya Academy, Chandigarh and was working as Video Director with Studio 6 Productions."

Cinematography

Tarminder Singh Tuneja
Cinematographer | The Wedding Container

[ 5 years & 5 months Experience ]

The art of photography and camera work in film-making

"I did my Schooling from Meerut. I then did my Graduation from Delhi University Open University. I worked with CMC for about 5 years. I am the CEO of The Wedding Container since 2013."

Film Making

Dhairya Arora
Director & Writer | Various Film Assignments

[ 10 years & 3 months Experience ]

Filmmaking is the process of making a film, generally in the sense of films intended for extensive theatrical exhibition.

"I was 15 when Ocean Sonic Pictures London took me for an India Tour. I served as Master of ceremony for the preview of Little Box of Sweets. I worked in Noida Film Industry and then in Mumbai Film Industry. I have made advertisements for Kotak Mahindra, SBI. I have worked for Bollywood movies like Tamanchay, Maximus. I now make short films for Youtube and Award ceremonies."

Cinematography

Sunny Rajput
Cinematographer | Various Creative Assignments

[ 6 years & 1 month Experience ]

Cinematography is the science or art of motion-picture photography by recording light or other electromagnetic radiation, either electronically by means of an image sensor, or chemically by means of a light-sensitive material such as film stock.

"I did a bachelors in mass communication from Jamia Millia Islamia University. After that I worked with T-series, Zee TV, Scoopwhoop, Royal Frames, Poster Filters. I am an independent cinematographer."

Audio Video Production

Kapil Khankriyal
Executive Producer | Studio Underground

[ 3 years & 3 months Experience ]

The terms audio and video commonly refers to the time-based media storage format for sound/music and moving pictures information. Video production is the process of producing video content. It is the equivalent of filmmaking, but with images recorded digitally instead of on film stock.

"After completing my education, I started my own IT Company and worked there for several years and later in 2015, I started a studio company by the name of Studio Underground. Studio Underground is an audio video production house."