This isn’t a boring Toledo film school classroom. This isn’t an overcrowded college laboratory. This is life. Real Life. YOUR LIFE.

Film Connection Film School in Toledo, Ohio specializes in pairing our students with professional filmmakers who give them real-world experience at their own studios, on-location, and at production companies across the Toledo area. From directing to producing to editing and screenwriting, our externship-based, mentor-taught certificate programs avoid the unnecessary costs and unrelated requirements of typical film schools.

Film Connection for Cinematography is suited for aspiring DPs i.e. Cinematographers. Film professionals in this role are the director’s partner and are charged with planning the shots, running the crew, and achieving the desired visual aesthetic. As an extern cinematographer, we pair you with a working DP who can show you the tricks of the trade and help you develop the keen “eye of the DP,” which is something best learned by doing and that’s what we’re all about!

The Film Connection for Film Production & Editing program enables you to study inside a real film production company in your city as you develop your movie idea under the instruction of a professional filmmaker. Our curriculum covers numerous aspects of professional filmmaking including: shot-blocking, working with actors, lighting, grip and electric, interviewing, and how to “make your day.” Story development and writing are also part of the program including everything from how to develop a story idea, to writing a pitch and pitching professionally, to writing a treatment. Budgeting, financing, deal-making, standard contracts, permits, and licensing are also covered.

Don’t Spend More on your Film Education if You Don’t Have to

Did you know Toledo, Ohio is located along the northern border of Ohio, on the western side of Lake Erie, and just south of Detroit, Michigan? Hosting a population of over 300,000 people, Toledo is primarily an industrial town, mainly known for glass and auto parts production. However, Toledo is also central to plenty of interesting scenery, including industrial and urban locations as well as natural lakeside views, making it a good hub for location filming. Toledo has been home to a number of entertainment professionals, including producer/director John Cromwell, sitcom creator Bonnie Turner, and actors Danny Thomas, Marlo Thomas, Jamie Farr, and Katie Holmes. Toledo also benefits from the attractive tax incentives Ohio offers to incoming filmmakers. If you are considering a career in filmmaking as a film director, film producer, film editor, or cameraman, Toledo holds plenty of opportunities for you–and FILM CONNECTION can help you maximize those opportunities.

Meet Our Mentors

Adam Weber

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Daniel Lir

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Lawrence Hilton-Jacobs

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Alejandra Huerta

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Daniela Larsen

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Get Real World Film Production Experience in Toledo

Movies, TV shows, documentaries, and specials are regularly shot in Ohio, including Toledo and the vicinity. Some examples of movies that have done location shooting in Dayton and surrounding regions include: Separation Anxiety, Freed, Tommy Boy, Tango & Cash, The Shawshank Redemption, and Traffic, just to name a few.

Our Toledo Film Industry Mentors Help you Build Real World Connections

When you enroll in FILM CONNECTION of Toledo, we put our many professional connections to work for you, setting you up with a working film or television professional in a one-on-one externship. During our inexpensive, 6-month course, you’ll get valuable hands-on training and make vital industry connections of your own. Many of our graduates get hired, often even before finishing their FILM CONNECTION course. You owe it to yourself to see what we can do for your career!

Learn the skills you need to take your idea from paper to the big screen.

Real world film education by filmmakers for filmmakers, optimized for today!

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Success stories

Since he started his extern program with Uptone Pictures in Raleigh, NC, Grant Gilbert has been taking…

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Please take the time to read the experiences of one of our own, Korey Hehn of Pineville, OR…

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The Film Connection program provided me with an opportunity to "see it and believe it"!…

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