Whether you’re an aspiring filmmaker, content creator, or marketing professional, enrolling in online video production courses can significantly enhance your skills and open up new opportunities. In this blog, we’ll explore the diverse array of benefits of top video production courses available online, covering everything from the fundamentals to advanced techniques.
Online Video Production Courses
The world of online learning offers a plethora of online video production course and courses catering to various skill levels and interests. From beginner-friendly introductions to comprehensive masterclasses, you can find courses that suit your specific needs to gain knowlege. Platforms like Udemy, Coursera, and Skillshare host a rich selection of courses, often taught by industry professionals with extensive experience in the field.
We’ve curated a list of online video production courses that we highly recommend for individuals seeking to enhance their knowledge in the field of video production.
Short Video Production Courses
Where to learn video production? Numerous film schools and academies provide short video production courses, offering an excellent way to learn about video production without the long commitment of a BA or MA video production course. These courses are ideal for anyone eager to gain skills and a qualification quickly, making them a recommended choice for both aspiring enthusiasts and professionals looking to refine their abilities.
1. London Film Academy
Location: London
The London Film Academy offers a broad range online courses full of short courses that immerse students in practical filmmaking from the creative to the technical. The courses are taught by current film and TV professionals and cover essential industry-relevant skills.
- Filmmaking Certificate
- Documentary Filmmaking Certificate
- BFI Film Academy for young aspiring filmmakers
- Directing Certificate
- Cinematography Certificate
- Introduction to Documentary, Producing Certificate
- Screenwriting Certificate
The duration of the courses ranges from one day to six weeks, and no prior experience is necessary.
2. Met Film School
Location: London
The Met Film School offers a variety of short courses in the field of filmmaking. Some of the courses available to finished film, include:
- Certificate in Practical Filmmaking (20-Week)
- Three-Month Experimental Filmmaking
- Eight-Week Directing
- Eight-Week Documentary Filmmaking
- Eight-Week From Story to Screen
- Four-Week Cinematography
- Four-Week Filmmaking
Most of these courses are designed to be immersive and cover various aspects of filmmaking, including acting, directing, cinematography video editing, and screenwriting. The duration of the courses ranges from four weeks to three months, and they are suitable for beginners with no previous experience required.
3. New York Film Academy
Location: New York
For a trip across the pond, The New York Film Academy (NYFA) offers short-term workshops in film, other media production, and performing arts, providing practical experience in visual storytelling. The workshops are designed to offer a unique, comprehensive experience in a short period of time, ranging from a week to a semester. They are hands-on and intensive, catering to individuals with little or no experience, as well as those looking to deepen their craft. The curriculum is designed to teach creative and technical skills in the chosen field. Program offerings vary by campus, and there are additional workshops offered online. The workshops are available for adults and youth, and the applications are accepted on a rolling basis until the program is full. The cost of the workshops varies depending on the duration and location.
Other Notable Courses:
National Film and Television School (NFTS) – Introduction to Filmmaking
Location: Beaconsfield, Buckinghamshire
The NFTS offers an intensive Introduction to Filmmaking course covering various aspects of video production, including scriptwriting, directing, cinematography, and editing. Students gain hands-on experience using industry-standard camera equipment and work on short film projects.
Ravensbourne University London – Digital Film Production (Short Course)
Location: London
Ravensbourne University offers short courses in Digital Film Production, providing participants with hands-on experience in using professional filmmaking equipment and software. The course covers the entire filmmaking process, from script development to post-production, giving students a well-rounded understanding of the industry.
Raindance Film School – Filmmaking Foundation Certificate
Location: London
Raindance Film School’s Filmmaking Foundation Certificate is designed for beginners and covers essential aspects of filmmaking, including screenwriting, directing, and editing of videos. The course emphasizes practical learning, and students get the chance to work on short film projects to apply their skills.
Hands-on Video Production Experience
Starting as a Runner: Laying the Foundation
Getting your foot in the door of the video production industry often begins with humble roles, such as being a runner. This entry-level position exposes you to the inner workings of a production set. As a runner, you’ll be responsible for various tasks like fetching equipment, assisting the crew, and observing the shoot and workflow. While it might seem menial at first, being a runner provides invaluable insights into the dynamics of a production, helping you build a solid foundation for your future endeavors.
Dragonfly have put together a list of the best freelancer websites to find video production work.
Working on Short Freelance Jobs: Diversifying Your Skill Set
Once you’ve gained some experience as a runner, the next step is to take on short freelance jobs. Freelancing allows you to work on a variety of projects, exposing you to different styles, genres, and challenges. This diversity not only enhances your technical skills in depth knowledge, but also helps you develop adaptability and problem-solving capabilities. Building a portfolio of freelance work showcases your versatility to potential clients and employers.
Learn From Yourself: Create Your Own Productions and Practice
While working on other people’s projects is essential for growth, creating your own productions is equally crucial. This could involve writing scripts, shooting short films, or producing online content. By taking on the role of both the creator and the producer of video productions, you gain a deeper understanding of the entire production process. This hands-on approach allows you to experiment, make mistakes, and refine your skills in a way that traditional education alone cannot provide.
Stay Informed: Follow Blogs and Latest Articles
The world of video production is ever-evolving, with new technologies, techniques, and trends emerging regularly. Staying informed about the latest developments is crucial for staying relevant in the industry. Follow reputable blogs, like Dragonfly’s video production blog, industry publications, and subscribe to newsletters to keep yourself updated. Engage with the community through forums and social media platforms to exchange ideas, seek advice, and stay connected with fellow professionals.
To conclude
As you embark on your journey in video production, remember that each role, each project, and each mistake is a stepping stone towards excellence. Stay engaged with the community, follow industry blogs, and continually seek opportunities for growth. With the right blend of education, experience, and a passion for storytelling, you can carve a meaningful career path in the captivating world of video production.
