This blog has grown substantially over the 5 years that I’ve been running it, and the weekly content I put out continues to increase in scope and overall reach. One thing that hasn’t changed however, is my intention for the site:

To share valuable and actionable content with like-minded filmmakers who want to tell important stories within their own means.

In the beginning, I started out by writing mostly about gear. At the time, understanding the technical aspects of the craft was huge for me, and that was very much reflected in the content I put out. But over the years as I grew as a filmmaker, I started broadening my horizons and sharing articles about directing, screenwriting, producing, color grading, and basically anything else I thought was critical for filmmakers… Especially those that share my hands on, DIY approach to filmmaking, as all of my articles and content are viewed through that lens.

But it wasn’t just the topics that broadened over the years of running this blog, it was the content streams too. What started out as just a personal blog, has truly grown into a thriving filmmaking community that has allowed me to connect with so many of you, not just through my articles but also through my podcast, newsletter, and other tools, products, and assets that I have made available through these platforms.

In lieu of all of the growth over the years, I thought it was about time to write a “Start Here” post. Just a few words for those who are new to the site, or perhaps those that are re-discovering it and want to get the most value from it possible.

So let’s look at the type of content you can expect, and when you can expect it –

CONTENT SCHEDULE

Every week, my goal is to release 3 new pieces of content:

A new blog post every Tuesday.

A podcast episode every Thursday.

A micro-budget weekly newsletter every Sunday.

While all of my content is targeted toward filmmakers looking to make a big impact with their work regardless of budget, each content stream is unique unto itself.

For instance, my blog posts offer a healthy mix of fundamental topics like directing techniques or production advice, as well as technical/craft topics like cinematography, camera reviews, and color grading tutorials.

My podcast – Show Don’t Tell – covers a similar array of filmmaking topics, but the format of the show allows me to explore them differently, most commonly by having on other amazing filmmakers as guests on the show.

And my newsletter – Micro Budget Weekly – includes highly practical tips for things like production scheduling, budgeting, or crewing, as well as career advice and insight on the business of independent filmmaking. You can sign up for it by clicking the link above.

I run this ship by myself, so there are weeks when I may miss a post or two here or there (especially when I’m on set!), but for the most part, the above is what you can expect from me each week.

COURSES & CONSULTATION

Each year, I aim to hold at least one in-person masterclass here in Los Angeles. These classes are usually reserved for groups of 25 – 30, and take place over the course of one weekend. Each class is a little bit different – some are more focused on the technical aspects of the craft, whereas others are more fundamental in nature. My goal is to refine the courses every year to ensure I am covering as much ground as possible. My next course for instance, will be highly actionable and is focused on the making of a micro-budget narrative feature from concept to completion.

I also have some video courses on similar topics in the pipeline, so those that can’t take part in my in-person courses don’t have to miss out on some great lessons. Upcoming video courses include a micro-budget filmmaking program, as well as a color grading series.

And for filmmakers looking for one on one training or consultations, I do that too – either over the phone, Skype, or in-person here in Los Angeles.

If you are interested in any of my upcoming courses or a private consultation, please e-mail me at info@noamkroll.com to let me know, and I will follow up with more info!

TOOLS

One of the more recent initiatives I’ve taken on with this blog (which has been a huge hit with you guys!), has been the downloadable production & post-production tools that I have made available.

I am constantly challenging myself to develop new workflows and techniques to enhance my creative process, and in order to do that successfully I often need to create custom tools along the way. Many of these tools I make available for free to my readers through blog posts, such as this free color grading LUT or this shot list template.

But I also create premium products that are sold through my blog – such as these cinematic color grading LUTs – which have already been used by thousands of you on film projects, commercials, and television content!

KEEPING IN TOUCH

Most importantly though, I always encourage readers of this blog to keep in touch with me and share feedback, article ideas, questions, or anything else for that matter. I am constantly striving to make this resource even more beneficial for filmmakers, and the #1 way for me to do that is by listening to you.

Whether you are one of the original followers of this blog, or this is your first visit – don’t hesitate to reach out to me via social media or e-mail to share your thoughts. Any and all feedback is always welcomed, and I look forward to continuing to have a dialogue with so many of you amazing filmmakers out there.

Be sure to follow me on Instagram, Facebook, and Twitter for more updates!