In this second video I discuss the three POWER principles that lead me to make thousands of dollars doing what I do.
Some of these principles I learned from an amazing book titled Good to Great by Jim Collins, who in my opinion is the modern day Napoleon Hill.
For those of you who don’t know who Napoleon Hill is, he’s the author of the famous book Think and Grow Rich which is a result of over 20 years of study and research of the mentalities and characteristics of the waelthy and successful, including the likes of Andrew Carnegie. — Now if you don’t know who Andrew Carnegie is, then you need to brush up on your American History.
Jim Collins spent over 10 years research the top companies, what made them great and how they got there. Companies that had a period of average performance followed by great performance that beat the market 3x over, and sustained that for atleast 15 years. Only 11 companies made the cut.
I highly recommend that you buy this book, and read it! — – and now…the feature presentation:
Your Takeaways from the video. Take action now! Don’t be “ordinatory” Leechon to the extraordinary! I want you to do two things:
- First - I want you to post a comment telling me what resources you have available to you. — Take inventory of yourself. – As I asked in the video. What equipment do you have? Cameras? Digi-cameras? Writing? acting? Debating, etc. How old if your computer? Is it a Mac or PC? What editing programs do you have (if any)?
- Second - Run the hedgehog concept on yourself. Write down on a piece of paper the things you have a passion for, and the approaches you are comfortable with. See which ones you potentially can be the best at. Those you can be the best at, think of creative ways to monetize it. — – An exercise can be, for the next 10 days, every day think of three ways you can derive economic benefit from those things. In the end you will have 30 items to choose from.
I’m looking forward to reading your responses 
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24 Mar 08
9:59 am
You should capitalize on your exposure and wear a Leechonfilms.com t-shirt, eh?
24 Mar 08
10:12 am
[...] A new video has been uploaded on Message Mastery titled Three POWER Principles of Filmmaking. [...]
24 Mar 08
10:41 am
as salaam alaikum wa rahmtulaahi wa baraktuhu
jazakalaakhayrun
your snippet films like this are just enough for me to action not too much not too little
maashallah
may allah reward you and your loved ones inshallah
ps a tip from an experience makeup artist…..make sure you iron things more professional polished finish like the curtains from your mum
inshallah ill get back to you after i have done invantory inshallah
24 Mar 08
11:25 am
Asalaam Alykum wrwb
My computer (windows and linux) is 5 years old, I have Nokia N95 good video quality, I have SE K800i good picture quality, And I will buy a video camera in few weeks.
Here is a list on some free open source video editing programs: http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/List_of_video_editing_software
http://sourceforge.net/search/?type_of_search=soft&type_of_search=soft&words=video+editing
Jazakallah khair, Ma’Salaam
Bilal
24 Mar 08
11:45 am
Slamz,
I have my phone which has a video camera,I have my laptop which is only a few years old,I have a digital camera which you can record short videos on,thats all i can think of at the moment
Hope it can all be of some use!
24 Mar 08
12:16 pm
Assalamu’alaykom wa rahmat Allah wa barakatoh Br. Belal,
My resources:
-MacBook Pro
-imovie
-digital camera that records
-video camera
-camera on my laptop that I have never used
-I have made PSA’s before using imovie and short film…both school projects back in the day
-I do graphic design (photoshop, flash, indesign)
Insha’Allah that is of some benefit.
May Allah shower your projects with sincere intentions and barakah. Ameen
wassalam
Sofiyah
24 Mar 08
12:19 pm
Asalamualaikum
Great video, I feel slightly embarrassed considering the very decent level of equipment I have available to me (a few good PC’s, digital cameras etc). My dad has an XM2 which I am very keen on making use of. InshaAllah will be building a new machine in june which will be a very high spec, running Adobe After Effects and Premiere amongst other applications.
But like you said, it’s not the tools that define your success, but you (and the tawfeek of Allah) so with that I am very excited to engage further in your excellent project.
24 Mar 08
1:37 pm
Salaam!!
ehee, socks, that’s cute. ^^
well, i have a Cannon videocam that’s about a couple of years old.. and my computer’s about a couple of years old, too. unfortunately i don’t have any editting programs >.< but i think i can get one inshaAllah.
Salaam~
24 Mar 08
2:32 pm
salamualaikum,
I have a digicam, it can record videos aswell um 5.2Megapixels …I have a dvd camcorder, samsung vp-dx10, ummm, i have mobiles which can record and take pictures bla bla.
oh and i have video editing software its called powerdirector it came with the camcorder. I have a pc…but also can have a mac at hand.
my pc’s recently been rebuilt by my brother it has 140GB harddrive and 1GB RAM…(if thats useful).. and whatever software i need its at hand from him…im gonnareinstall macromediafireworks and the lot if that helps
umm oh btw the camcorder i have u can run it on its own memory it has only 4GB internal memory (i prefer dvd thats why i didnt buy HDD camcorder) and you can also use a memory card on it …(if that helps) i cant rly think of anything else…oh my brother has a camcorder different from mine i will maybe be able to borrow it off him if i want or ill buy it off him
Debating is one think we always do in our family so i think i have that at hand…oh and ive already done a bit of camcording and editing videos myself when we had a gathering…the basics puting in music and titles onto the clip and fade out effects etc..but thats all.
im up for anything really… i have an intrest in all areas…oh i can easily do stages up and things like that- backdrops…i can deal with lighting aaaand thats it.
hope that helps
24 Mar 08
2:42 pm
wooow mashaa Allah i like it
24 Mar 08
2:58 pm
Assalaamu alaikum,
Love the video! Well, I have all the graphic design and web design software I need but I also have programs that I never used before like Windows Movie Maker, Sound Forge and Roxio Creator. I also have a digital camera and a cell phone with some video capabilities on it. I’m not into the writing so much as graphic design (of course!) but I have awesome people to partner up with on the writing aspect.
p.s. Does Flash count as a program for making videos?
24 Mar 08
3:04 pm
Salam aleikoum,
My software resources are:
For animation I mostly use Adobe After Effects CS3. For editing Adobe Premier CS3. I also use photoshop and Adobe Onlocation.
I have a Hp laptop AMD Turion x2 with 1GB of RAM. I bought it last summer.
I only have a DV camera which is 10 years old. I’m planning on buying a HD one soon.
Yes I have a passion on filmmaking specially animation and design. I would to make a video on some reminders (such as documentaries on day of judgment) stuff like that.
Thanks.
24 Mar 08
3:11 pm
MashaAllah. Keep the comments coming.
Iman Kouvalis, Flash is absolutely a program that can make videos. So does the latest version of powerpoint. Its a matter of relaying a message via a visual medium.
InshaAllah I’ll make sure to cover all the different modalities of audio/visual communication.
Keep the comments comming
24 Mar 08
3:28 pm
salaamz
wow u really made me think about how i can use my knowledge and talent of doing things im very passionate about, thank you.
well the one thing that came to mi
y mind when i watched your second video is my love for Islamic and just usual art. this is the one thing that moves me most, and like you said yes im sure i can use this God given talent to produce art like ive done before and maybe earn some money.
ive sold my art before, even though ive only sold it once or twice for a charity we actually raised BIG amounts of money from it so after that ive realized maybe i can do something with my art.
to tell you the truth i haven’t much editing programs on my laptop but ive got windows movie maker and my edition of windows is media center so i can do loads with that.
i hope you read this and maybe reply to my message it would mean alot.
thank you for your tips in your new video they really helped
jazaks
salaamz
Fatima yousaf
24 Mar 08
3:36 pm
Walaikum Asalaam Fatima,
Speaking of art and video…have you seen “Val’s Art Dairy” on You Tube. That’s one unique and creative an individual used their passion and skill to make money.
Read about it here:
http://tropist.wordpress.com/2007/06/18/vals-impressive-video-paintings/
24 Mar 08
3:45 pm
Masha Allah br. Bilal, that was an awesome video.
equipment - i don’t have jack! Got PC laptop, 2 yrs old.
experience - dono anything about graphics design or video making.
Why bother? - i’m working on this skill for my future projects.
I’d request some product/books recommendations leading up to the webinar to get people to a minimum level of knowledge as they begin learning from the webinars.
Jazakallahukhair
Nahyan
24 Mar 08
3:51 pm
–1 Laptop(pc) ,pretty decent specs
–Can get hold of a 5 mp digi-camera with about 50 minutes at one time recording time.
–Limited script writing skills
–Experience in directing a few short videos and a play(involving about 50 people)
–Editing programs,not much experience with the few that I have(Proshow and Windows Movie Maker)
–Acting and debating experience albeit limited as well
24 Mar 08
5:28 pm
Salams
My only source of filming equipment is the digital media program I am currently enrolled in. They let us check out cameras, tripods, lighting, microphones, and more. We have alot of Apple software in the lab, like final cut pro, photoshop and garage band, ect.
I’m hoping you can help us with how to maintain a halaal lifestyle while being involved in this industry. I’d like to learn about developing my muslim filmaking career and earning the money to support a family, inshallah.
I love making films with all my heart, and that’s what drove me into this. But there are things about my career that I really need to learn so that I’ll have something to tell a future father-in-law… you know…
24 Mar 08
5:31 pm
OH YES, we need muslim filmaking INTERNSHIP oppritunity info. PLEASE. PLEASE… Jazakallahu khair.
24 Mar 08
5:34 pm
As salaam ‘alaikum
JazaakAllaahu khairan for the video
I have the following
1 Pc which is 1 and half year old
2 Laptops
1 JVC Hard Disk Camcorder - which I purchased 6months ago
1 cell phone which records films, audio and takes pictures
1 digital camera
also have external harddrive which I store most of my videos on so I dont use up to much diskspace on the PC
For editing I use:
Adobe premeire pro 2.0 (I prefer this one)
also have windows movie maker
camtasia studio 5
Adobe audtion 2.0 and WavePad for audio
and sometimes use Adobe photoshop Cs2
As for skills I lack imagination and this is something I really want towork on
if you give me a written peice and ask me to work on it I can build on it, but if you ask me to start something from scratch I lack with creativity
I also would like to improve my design skills and script writing
baarak Allaahu feekum
24 Mar 08
5:35 pm
Assalamu Alaikom, Jazzaka Alah khair for your efforts.
I have my digital camera that recprds video, I have a built-in camera in my laptop that is a year old, or less. And I like to write stories but Inever do because it is not allowed islamically unless I make sure everyone knows is an entirely fictional story and second, it should be of some use to our ummah, a reminder for example. I can do such things, but I don’t know where to start, how to start.
24 Mar 08
5:36 pm
I also have movie maker on my laptop
24 Mar 08
6:19 pm
Salam,
I use
Final Cut sudio 2
HD video camera (24p feature)
Shake
Photoshop
XLR Microphones (phantom power)
Fuild head tripod with wheels
24 Mar 08
6:20 pm
I use all this on the iMac
trying to save up for a Macbook pro
(I travel alot for promos)
24 Mar 08
6:30 pm
- 3 yr old pc - decent specs
- still 3.1MP Minolta Dimage Z1 - 640×480 - 30fps
- audacity
- cheap pc mic (pretty good quality)
- above average narration skills
i’d like to do something with my basic audio editing and narrative skills…
24 Mar 08
7:06 pm
-1 yr old HP Pavillion, Heavily Modified
-Fujifilm Finepix s700 SLR Type (not an SLR Though) [decent quality video]
-Sony Cybershot, records pretty good video
-Studio headphones and mic
-Adobe Premier
-Tripod/s
-Photoshop
-Movie Maker
-2 Laptops
-Few audio recording software
-Flash editing programs, such as macromedia, and swish
Well, generally I have alot of this stuff in order to do video reviews for my site. The video reviews are scheduled for this summer InshAllah. As far as the backdrop goes, we have a set in the works [nothing big, just something very simple such as a giant black wall, or bluescreen?] and as pointed out in the video, some very basic lighting which does the trick.
24 Mar 08
7:36 pm
SLamAliqum,
SubhanAllah… i got a admit that video that u made its worth something because when i finished watching both of your videos, my mind kind of start having ideas like what i like to do and what i should do. better way to say: ( Positive Thoughts )
24 Mar 08
7:37 pm
I have Pc with win XP and Adobe premiere pro 2.
I want to buy a video camera, can you recommend the type of camera and lights etc
24 Mar 08
7:37 pm
Salam Alycom brother Bilal,
thank you for the wonderful presentation, well, i attended a training on documentary making by Craig Duff the American documentary maker.
i live in Egypt now but i will move with my husband to UK and i would like to make videos on the status of Muslims there and all teh problems they face.
i tend to like documentaries with conterversial topics.
i just feel that i lose intreset coz i’m alone and i have many ideas in mind but cant apply them now.
i have lack of equipments at the mo but when i’ll move to London biethni Allah.
Jazak Allahu Khairan bro
Ellie
24 Mar 08
8:20 pm
Salaam.
I have Windows Movie Maker (on Vista) which i clicked on by mistake a few months ago and then happened to make a short movie. It was fun, but somewhat time-consuming if you want to make it very good.
24 Mar 08
8:31 pm
[...] messagemastery.com [...]
24 Mar 08
8:52 pm
Asalaamu Alaykum Br. Belal,
this video was just as inviting, inspiring as the 1st Subuhana Allah! Jazak Allah Khair! It was very good to see the “behind the scenes” which you have set up 
I could not even imagine before.
I pray all is well for you and your little helpers Masha’Allah!
In response to your latest video and post, I will first list the very basic resources which I have.
Also as I have stated in my comments when I joined the “early bird” list. I am a “newbie” to all of this and had just recently (within days) of you posting your “Webinar” invitation, came to realize that I have many thoughts and ideas I wish to express and contribute to the Ummah Insh’Allah!
This came about by watching many slide video presentations mostly, which Brothers and Sisters had posted on “YouTube” Masha’Allah!
Jazak Allah Khair for your extremely generous heart to help and work with others like myself.
Having stated that I had just recently decided Insh’Allah to take up a similar project posting (video slide show presentation), thinking that may be a more simple and good place to start!
I had heard of “Windows Movie Maker” for video editing and was about to download this program. However when I came across your invitation to your “Webinar”, I decided to hold off in the event that you suggest a better and more “user friendly” program. So at the moment I do not have any editing programs.
My resources are as follows:
- PC laptop “Compaq Presario” approx 4 yrs old
- digital camera “Canon Powershot Elf” approx 4 mnths old (has capability to record short video clips)
- Webcam for computers
- Cell phone which records very short clips
and as embarassing as it is, that is all. I told you I am a “newbie” :-/
I have been told by many that I have a real way with communicating both in person and with writing. Many (who are indepedant of one another) over the Years have suggested strongly that I do “Public speaking” for daw’ah and interfaith discussions. However I am shy and get too freaked out in front of too many people. Many others have also told me strongly, that I should write books.
Regarding books I have the passion to write, and is obvious I have alot to say!
I had contemplated writing from the perspective of a “revert” Muslimah, which I am.
Also I would like to reach out for the purposes of humanity and Insh’Allah break down the stereo types of prejudice, hate, racism, brainwashing and different Cultures which add to the distancing one feels from the many… I want Insh’Allah to show the World that we are all humans and on the basic levels, we all want and need the same! This calls everyone to be conscious that we are the same and respect is necessary, if not furthering each others knowledge outside of ourselves.
I love to write, however the process of writing a book seems to throw me off. Leaving me feeling overwhelmed with the time it would take to do such a project. It is not that I am not dedicated to put time in, but I don’t want to end up looking at Years to do such a thing.
So the idea of making videos seemed to be the answer to the above obstacles for me Insh’Allah! I do feel that the possibilities are endless Insh’Allah! as you say if it is done in The Name of Allah(SWT) and one completely trusts in Allah(SWT) to guide Insh’Allah!
I hope to buy the book you referenced and read up Insh’Allah!
Jazak Allah Khair once again Brother.
May Allah(SWT) bless and reward you for all your efforts and hard work for this dunyah and with Jannat Al Firdaws for the Akhirah Insh’Allah! Aameen.
Yasmine.
24 Mar 08
9:20 pm
i love the concept of film making i have only one digital camera may be 12 years old. with 8mm cassette. computer with winxp and all kinds of software.
24 Mar 08
9:47 pm
jazak allah khear
24 Mar 08
10:15 pm
bro, com to think of it, the equipment you have are so simple yet the quality of your work is amazing!
Masha Allah
24 Mar 08
11:40 pm
Asalaamu Alaaikum brother
JazaakAllah Khair. I do not have much equipment. I have a PC that is fairly new (about 4 years lol). Digital Camera, I forget how many pixels. It has a recording movies feature but its horrible quality, and like only 5 minutes tops (without sound!). SubhanAllah. I have access to my sister’s two cellphones, one has excellent video quality (recording) and good picture as well. The other is not as good with recording movies/videos, but the picture quality is decent. I also have an Archos 402 MP3-4 player. It has very good quality when recording videos, but the pictures could be better. However, I fear it has gotten too old after the many times I’ve used it. It’s refusing to cooperate with me and I’ve given up trying to record anything on it. I could try, but it would be a great struggle. I love that thing to death though (which is precisely why it’s ‘dying’ lol). I also have a 120 gig external hard drive which I bought to save some files before I reinstalled my OS, and also to save important files (tons of audio and video) from my Archos. SubhanAllah. I guess I can use it for videos? I am willing to purchase a new camera, a new camcorder (or mp4 player with that feature), laptop and new video software as windows movie will just not do anymore. Insha’Allah, if Allah gives me the ability I will try to secure these hard-and-soft ware(s?), because you said in the video do what you love, and I really believe this is what I love. I am not going to make this my career as I’m already currently studying for something else…but this would be a great hasanat-filled project to do (i.e. making more quality dawah videos) on the side. I liked the three principles. Insha’Allah I’ll reflect a bit more on this
Insha’Allah I haven’t written too much
BarakAllahu Feek
Wa’alaykum Asalaam wa Rahmatullah
25 Mar 08
1:10 am
Salam-o-Alykom Brother and JazakAllah.
I find your way of making Dawaah Vdos unique because most of the Muslims like me who want to do Dawah are either poor or don’t have any resources to start. Alhumdulilah I have at least gotten to the point that I have my own website and I am slowly working on to promote Dawah… To tell you the truth I was actually going to start such a project myself. But I couldn’t due to various reasons anyways…What I want you to tell me brother is that, I don’t have any resources at the moment just this website, What kind of movie making softwares will I need? If I want to launch another website I want to learn to do that as well as you will find this website was actually created by the help of another website. And the last thing I want you to tell me is that what skills are put into web-designing because I am just a rookie (and nobody has actually helped me out with any of this stuff) although I have great scripts and I also used to do Khutbah at my high school due to shortage and unwillingness of the Hufaz and Sheikhs but I Alhumdulilah came through and MSA a success. Anyways enough for now with the chit chat here are my specifications: PC which is 8 years old! YET RUNS LIKE NEW!!! I have a digital Camera but its malfunctioning (wont be of much use). I have 2 other PCs which are actually even fresher i.e. one is 1 year old and the other is well lets just say I just bought it! I have nothing else besides skills to make home production films. I also had a camcorder but I had to return it due to its problems so I am basically naked in this field! I have made vdos of IFT Youth Conference (amature vdo totally) if you would like I can send you a sample but it will take some time to reach you.
Wasalam and take care oh and don’t forget to contact me (tariq3000@pakistani.com)
25 Mar 08
1:35 am
Asalamo Alaikum Akhi
ok so i have
1.) Canon Camcorder couple of yrs old
2.) SONY Digi Cam. only 3 months old
3.) Another old dgi cam, 2MP.
4.) Dont really got my own cellphone. but probably can boroow brothers.
Comp.
got enuff computers in the house
My personal comp specs are as follows
3.2Ghz processon
1GB Ram
160 GB Harddrive.
TV card, DVD burner..
Skills.
I run a website called http://www.islamic-life.com
I enjoy using computer alot. and i would love to earn money and do what i love.
Experiance.
Made a wedding video for cuzin. Allhumdulilah it was sucess.
I have directed several school, and islamic related movies. I think i can write scripts pretty well. Pretty good at taking videos.
And i think i learn computer related things fairly quickly.
Softwares.
Movie Maker.
Audacity.
Adobe PhotoShop CS2
But can get other softwares.
Im hope to make Promotional videos for my website.
I want to make videos with good reminders.
And bro im jsut really really really really excited bout this webinar.
I got so happy when i saw ther was a new video update.
May Allah Bless you and Reward you Akhi.
25 Mar 08
1:37 am
btw i dont got a good mic. or n e good lighting supplies.
25 Mar 08
1:57 am
sony digital camera from ‘03…only one that works as of now
2002 PC with windows movie maker
2006 toshiba laptop with windows movie maker
25 Mar 08
2:49 am
AssalamoAlykuim
Barrak Allah Feek, MashAllah. I am amazed at how big of dawah the internet can be, and I am really liking the idea. I have always loved video making since I was a kid, I guess maybe I can make it more beneficial to me and to those who watch it. InshAllah.
I got 2 desktop computers
( ifthat helps)
1 old web cam (looks like an eye ball) lol
1 hard drive video cam
plenty of room in my house.
3 adorable little girls
umm old mic
two cell phones with video/still mode
ummm softwares like ( cyberlink powerdirector, Roxio, movie maker, hp photoimage,….and so many more.)
I can create some lightign no problem…So tell me how can I do some major dawah on the web….JAK May Allah reward you for this, and for everyone who has the right intentions doing dawah, cause it is our every Muslim Duty to do so.
25 Mar 08
3:30 am
Am I the only one who see’s a soccer field picture for the video? (and it doesnt play) My other computer is just fine, but maybe it’s a vista thing?
why do computers hate me? … why?
25 Mar 08
5:05 am
I think this is an awesome idea Brother!
I have recently found joy in making videos…some for youtube too! I find it a very fun activity!
Some supplies I have:
–Casio Exilim Digital Camera (8.1 MP)
(and various memory cards)
–Tosiba laptop (almost 3 years old, very little memory capacity left though =()
–Ultra Quicktime Converter (Program to convert the video files from my camera)
–Windows Movie Maker
–I have pretty good writing skills
Inshallah I hope that your ideas turn into success! Jazak Allah for this great idea!
25 Mar 08
5:10 am
Masha Allah very well done - you actually kept my attention thought I was skeptical of hitting play — I don’t like to watch things that waste my time….and I’m glad to say this didn’t waste my time. The only thing that was distracting about the video were your verbal pauses in the walk through of the studio, it ruined the continuity of the video and cause me to lose focus.
Asalaam o alaikum,
Sr. Mariam
25 Mar 08
6:37 am
As-Salam brother, thanks for the video.
Some equipment I have
-Dell 600m laptop
-HP P.C.
-Sony W-80 digital camera
-Windows movie maker
-Love politics
and will buy a camcorder very soon Allah willing, if you or any other brother and/or sister have any recommandation for camcorder will be really helpful.
25 Mar 08
6:46 am
Forgot to add something
-Webcam
25 Mar 08
7:35 am
asalaam
i have a pc which is pretty old but works just fine and a cell that can record. in softwares i just have windows media maker 5.1. not much.
25 Mar 08
9:22 am
alhamdulillah sounds goooood! whats a good editing program? i dont know which to download etc
25 Mar 08
9:53 am
Asallam Alaikum, equipment is as follows:
- Canon S5 IS DSLR Camera that records video
-The latest macbook with the penryn processors
-Adobe After effects
-A studio / Chroma Key setup in my room
-Halogen lighting
And my most important piece of equipment - ISLAM.
I am most passionate about islam, about taking away the misconceptions that surround it and telling the world what it is about in a humorous and interesting way if i can. I believe there are times where jokes aren’t a bad thing but also times where one has to be serious. I am also passionate about technology and helping people out, an example can be seen here http://www.geektechtv.com. It was my first video so off course there will be a lot of things wrong with it, but Alhamdullilah it is a start.
25 Mar 08
12:28 pm
Asallam Alaikum to all,
As for my inventory:
-My camera is the Nokia N95 8gb which is 5MP
-Windows movie maker
-sony laptop about 3 years old
-Im good at telling stories
-Im like action, drama, mystery, and suspense
I was interested in making and editing videos but never got around to it. I started making some for our annual MSA final dinner. So far i made an orphan sponsorship video which i will post in a later time. I think i am good all by myself. Just imagine if i had help?!?!
JAZAKHALLAH KHAYR!
-Mahfooz
http://escape.to/jannah
25 Mar 08
2:14 pm
Salam aleykum Belal,
Mashallah a beautiful and much-needed web educational-resource and network for the Ummah! May Allah grant you more!
Inshallah, my dream is succeed in creating powerful and moving films that express and show people, inshallah, the beauty of Islam, as it exists today around the world. I have been making films and videos for several years now, though I have recently realized the direction that I’d like to take this in (I received recent success with my short doc “Abdallah of Mile-End”, which won the Audience Award on Radio Canada’s Digital Diversity contest- it’s on my website). I want to have a production company that specializes in Islamic content for film and the web, as an educational and an artistic tool. As someone who has come to Islam, I realize that tonnes of Western people would love the faith, if it were only presented to them in the right cultural/ contemporary context. Inshallah, humbly, we can make an intention to help.
My interest lies in not only documentary, but also fiction, music videos, for the cinema and for the web.
I am equipped with an HDV camera, a mac computer, Final Cut;
I’ve studied at film school for the last couple of years;
I’ve had experience with many professional filmmakers;
I am experienced and knowledgeable in almost every aspect of filmmaking, from pre-production Research, scriptwriting, grant-writing, through produtcion (camera , sound, directing, lighting, etc) through to editing & post-production.
What I really need some more insight into is how to get content out on the web in a successful manner to as many people as possible, and how, inshallah, such an effort can generate real returns (both in terms of public interest and in terms of some financial opportunities).
I am very excited and open to any suggestions you have.
May Allah bless such endeavors and guide us right. Shukur
26 Mar 08
1:50 am
Brother Belal, this is a wonderful service you are offering the ummah; may Allah ta’ala grant you success upon success in this life and in the hereafter, amin. To respond:
Equipment & programs -> HP Pavillion w/Windows XP bought in 2006, includes muvee Autoproducer 4.5, Windows Movie Maker, Powerpoint (didn’t know that could help, but saw comment above), media center & HP image zone (don’t know how helpful those are);
Kodak EasyShare C340 w/video capability;
Nokia cellphone w/video capability.
Personal inventory -> Performer: former traditional dance and drumming performer with limited theatrical acting.
Communicator: writing/editing (non-scriptwriting); debating; a few public speaking venues (dawah); have given tours & dawah to masjid visitors;
Educator: mother of three, Islamic weekend school (elementary) teacher; homeschooler
On to hedgehog brainstorming, jak ~ H
26 Mar 08
2:32 am
Salam Brother, I just wanna say I’m excited for this, it’s a great idea! and a great opportunity. I appreciate that you are spending your time and energy to help the inexperienced improve.
You asked what sort of things do I have to work with….
I am I decent writer I suppose, and with the right inspirations I can spurt out all kinds of ideas. I consider myself an artist, but after attending an indie film fest recently, I have become very interested in the art of film making as well. I’m intrigued by the idea that so much emotion and meaning (and motivation) can be invoked by a short 10 min. presentation if it’s done right.
Well, I have a good digital camera and i know well how to use it, and put videos on the computer.
I also have a pretty ordinary sony video camera….except I have almost no idea how to use it. My skills in using that camera are literally limited to pressing the record button, zooming, and play-back on the camera itself.
I have windows XP with the usuals that come with. I’ve played around in Windows movie maker but I know there are probably many secrets in the program I’ll never be able to unlock by simply “playing around”.
So if you could take these things into consideration I’d be eternally grateful. I’m eager to take action!!
26 Mar 08
1:01 pm
Bismillah…
Equipment:
a)Digi-cams, and one professional camera
(that I will inshaallah learn to use)
b)Abilities: I can write, alhamdulillah, almost anything (except notes to a song) if I have my heart into it
I can do speeches, alhamdulillah and debates….
d)Computer: As far, alhamdulillah We have PC and is up-to-date, Currently we use Windows XP
e)Programs: Windows Movie Maker, MS Picture Manager 2007, we’re inshaallah purchasing ULead products
Passions:
Writing essays, poems, stories (takes very long). scripts
Painting, artwork
Making MVs (music videos)
Staging a play (either directing and/or writing)
INTERESTS:
Film-making for the sake of Islam
*Best approach for me…
In a film I believe inshaallah a very good impact is something that is anybody can relate to, yet has a sense of…a calling to think and meditate on the subject…inshaallah influencing their lives for the better.
THANK YOU VERY MUCH! Jazakh allahu khairan!
26 Mar 08
3:50 pm
Assalamualaikum..
How thankful we should be as many still willing to struggle and help this beautiful religon.
I dont have many resources,but i do have:
- a computer in my room
-software like windows movie maker,wavepad and others(software 4 saound and music)
-maybe someday i ll get a laptop (i dont have it now coz my father said i m still young..hehe)
-i dont have many knowledge on filmmaking but i do have friends that i believe that they could help me in this project.
I m interested in clearing misconception about islam and revealling the beauty of islam,especially of what it teaches.There are many ways to explain this,such as religion camparison,science,history and many more.I m trying to find something that is really effective to do this.Well,i can talk and add some sence of humour to make it interesting,or maybr creatae a story to relate with the topic i m telling,and a skill of filmmaking would help me very much,and i hope to learn it.I m still studying in matriculation level (yup,still young),but that doesn’t mean that i cant do something big like this,coz its a long term target,and hopefully you could help me.
28 Mar 08
11:03 am
As Salamu Alaikum Brother.
Firstly, I want to thank you for the useful information you’re sharing, jazak Allah khair.
Secondly, I’m passionate about drawing, I draw islamic paintings and calligraphy. The question is how can I take this to a further step and a means of da’wah? I’ve been thinking of launching a website to make an online exibition of all my drawings and paintings, but have no clue on how to get a website done, take photos of my drawings to place online and so on…
Thirdly, I’m auditioning to become a presenter on an islamic channel and part of the audition is to make a 5 min video of myself presenting any topic. I have my mobile video camera and I found a very suitable location in my uni and asked my sister to record me. Do you have any advice on how to go about this.
Jazak Allah khair for your efforts. Tawfiq insha’Allah.
28 Mar 08
12:34 pm
Asallam Alaikum BROOO!
I am leaving the country on APRIL 28 and coming back MAY 28 InshaaAllah. Your program starts May 17th! What to do? Will the program be recorded or taped so i can view it when i come back? Or will i miss out on the first few lessons? I REALLY want to benefit from this! Got any suggestions?? My email is mahfooz.iq at gmail dot com.
JazakhAllah and take care
30 Mar 08
1:43 pm
Sallamualaykum
I have a panasonic SDR H40…Its a decent camera, records to a hard drive…very basic though, not thta many advanced features on it.
Windows movie maker is what I use…its not the best, but its easy and quick
01 Apr 08
3:54 am
Asalamu alaikum wa rahmatahu Allahi wa barakatahu
Jazakuma’Allahu Khairun for making these videos. They are very beneficial.
I have been wanting to start making videos for quite a while now. Dawah videos. Now my only concern has been…How to do so without being in the video and without talking in the video?
Now, this one sister did a very nice and short piece that I loved: http://tv.muxlim.com/video/H_d6FG1vgjO without using spoken words.
It works for a short script yet what do I do for a longer script if I have no one to do the talking or being in front of the camera for me?
Any suggestions?
Jazakuma’Allahu Khairun.
01 Apr 08
5:46 am
Assalam Alaikum Wa Rahmatullah
1) I have a digital camera which has the option of making movies, but I’d prefer to use my brothers’ camera phone as the digital camera uses up batteries very quickly. I also have available to me a video camera. I normally use Windows XP 2002 (PC). There’s another PC in the house, and it’s very recent….a few months old. We also have a laptop that has a camera on it….few months old as well. I think I can manage a debate, especially if it’s through text, but there is room for major improvement. But basically, I am at a blank of which skills I possess. I’ve used windows media maker before.
2.) Giving da3wah….it lifts my emaan a lot. At my college, I give da3wah at the da3wah table. I’m better at giving da3wah through text, however, or if I know the questions beforehand so I can do in-depth research and explain properly.
I’m good at organizing things, especially if I want to and put my mind to it.
Hmm, I think that’s it. =/
jazakAllaahu khairan Br. Belal.
Assalam Alaikum Wa Rahmatullah
01 Apr 08
8:08 pm
Assalamu Alaikum Wa Rahmatullah
Masha’Allah I like the style already and am looking forward to more of the same on the webinars. Quickly per your request…
Al Hamdulillah I have access to a digital camera, and a cell phone that records decent quality videos and stills. I have a labtop that comes with the generic video making programs but I still haven’t used it yet
so it might actually be great! PhotoShop, Movie Maker. I also have access to lights and many tools a carpenter might have.
I have a passion for writing and would have to list that as a natrual resource Al Hamdulillah. Why I want to take this course is cuz I love to learn and teach what I know as well…especially when it comes to making ajar deposits in the akhira account.
Jazak’Allah Khair for the effort Insha’Allah we all benefit from each other and get the opportunity for a domino effect like Belal.
MaSalama
03 Apr 08
4:26 am
AsalamuAlaykum
Thanks for all the support and help so far!
To the topic of my equipment:
>6 Megapixel Samsung Digital Camera
>Win Vista (Vista Sucks) Home Ultimate, as well as XP (better in my opinion)
>Have good writing skillz
>Software…well I’ve got moviemaker, and have experience with Adobe Photoshop, but I can get torrents of GIMP and Adobe Photoshop(which I don’t currently have)
>Oh yeah, most importantly(save the best for last), I’ve got the Intention to do this for the ?Cause of Allah
>>PS: Check out and try to become part of the Youtube community of Muslims, esp under the Islamic Emirate of Youtube, inshAllah, we will use this info to improve our videos and dawah. Join the Cause!
07 Apr 08
7:04 am
Salam,
My computer is PC labtop and it is 1 year old. Editing software is Windows Movie Maker. No camera except for my not so good cell phone camera. I would like to learn something new, I am looking forward
08 Apr 08
10:08 pm
salaam! brother i have about 3 years old computer and digital camera intervidoe creater and movee auto producer and i wanna jnow hotw to start? and how to make a reguler vidoe into into the professoinal movie and how do u do the beginging picture script with sound inshllah can u try to reply me.
11 Apr 08
6:13 am
Assalaamu alaikum brother
My apologies I didn’t comment here, cause when I saw the first Video from hearing from Baba Ali, I didn’t wait and went ahead, and….I am already filming.
To answer your questions:
1. I have 3 computers. One which I use for rendering. The other is a Dell Laptop which I use to create the compositions, motion graphics and editing.
2. The softwares I have, which I taught myself cause I couldn’t wait are:
A) After Effects for Compositions, Motion Graphics and special effects which I create from scratch.
B) Pro-Animator/Invigorator I am just about to get for 3D plugin for After Effects to raise the stakes in 3D intro animations and building 3d worlds.
C) Sony Vegas I have for editing the movies and adding the sounds track, audio and if needs be, blending modes.
D) Photoshop to help with Motion Graphics, Mapping Textures.
E) Illustrator for creating designed Vectors for Motion Graphics.
I learnt to use all these in a matter of a few months and at high standard, 12 hours a day.
Filming Equipment
This is where I have a challenge bro but some stranger from nowhere gave me:
A) A Digital Camcorder.
I don’t have lighting or, Microphones but I am just filming for practing to understand the camera at moment.
SPACE
I got a room which I took everything out. So now, I will need to learn how what to add, microphone, lighting, etc.
11 Apr 08
11:54 am
Dell XPS M1210 Laptop
sony minidv camcorder with mic
Adobe Premiere
I am interested in recording presentations, so it would be great if you could include multicamera editing as well as how to clearly integrate powerpoint slides in the editing phase (so I don’t have to depend on blurry camera shots of projection).
11 Apr 08
2:27 pm
Wasn’t sure where to put this, but thought it may be of use to someone out there:
http://www.filmracing.com/howitworks.htm
The challenge: make a movie in 24 hours and enter it in the filmracing contest.
I don’t think it’s really 24 hours but you have 24 hours to include a surprise theme and action element, that is only announced at the beginning of the race.
27 Apr 08
11:51 am
?Salam brother I liked ur video. in fact this is the first video for u I saw and I really liked it. any way thanks for this great video and I want to invite u to visit my website
http://www.arabtech.tv
it’s arabic Podcasts about technology and we did make an episode about how to make ur own podcast in arabic and we too use standard video camera with HHD and clipon microphones nothing much really and as u said after tawfiq from Allah you will succeed and make it to the top
we are the first Arab official Podcasters
28 Apr 08
9:11 pm
as-salamu alaikum brother -
inventory:
Mac Powerbook G4 12″, 1.5 GHz, 1.25 GB RAM
iMovie, Final Cut, Final Cut Pro (don’t know how to use these last two).
Canon MiniDV Camcorder, about three years old.
Sony MiniDV Camcorder, about 5 years old.
Sony HD Camcorder, about two years old.
Canon SD 870IS Digital Camera, takes stills/video.
Samsung Still camera, also takes mediocre video.
Handheld recorder, Olympus.
Writing ability: can write, talk/present well. cannot draw. at all.
I’m interested in recording presentations/documentary films, as well as creative trailers/teasers for events and the like…
Was-salam
zacharia
03 May 08
8:18 pm
sallam br. Belal
i have a web cam and i just wanted to know if it is good enough or i should buy a video cam, also i have a digital cam that can record and i love the idea of teaching people the basics of video teaching for less JassakAllahkir
04 May 08
5:51 pm
Salams Brother Belal,
Jazak Allah for your initiative - high time we had some hard core media workshops! Have paid already and can’t wait for the webinar to begin:
Here’s my inventory:
* Core element: Faith in Allah and the intention to serve humanity
* Computer: a Toshiba laptop and a PC - both pretty new
* Hard disk: Two external hard drives, totalling lots and lots of giga bytes
* Accessibility: Broadband internet connection (uploading not a problem)
* Camera: Can buy any camera you recommend - waiting for advice, budget no problem
* Sound: Sony Ericsson phone that records conversations very well - good for documentaries and telephonuc interviews. Digital voice recorder. No mics yet - want to get a camera which takes good mics, Insha Allah
* Still photography: Canon digital SLR - doesn’t do video but can be used to do very good stills for a montage, etc. Have shot professionally.
* Skills: Professional copywriter and journalist. more than 10 years in advertising, marketing, branding, communication working for some of the hottest brands and advertising agency networks in the world!
Strong on researching, interviewing, networking, striking instant bonds with people, travelling. Very fast learner for all things IT - from blogging to video uploads to website management and more.
Things and themes I am interested in:
* Spirituality that transcends cultures and differences (Like Imam Ghazali)
* Poetry that connects people and touches them (like Hazrat Rumi)
* Da’wah that isn’t preachy but cool (like Baba Ali)
* Truth that’s waiting to be told (all those stories that we should see in the media but don’t)
* The sheer diversity of the Ummah
* Advertising, marketing, communication
* The power of the internet and the good that can be done with it….
Hoping to take these initial thoughts further with your help…
farrukh
http://www.copywriterjournalist.com
27 May 08
12:57 pm
assalamu’alaykum warohmatulloh
jazakalloh khoir for your video and effort.
alhamdulillah i’m also have talented like you in video production. my experiences are director scripwriter, cameramen, video editor etc.
Now i’m try to make dawah TV. in very low cost.
only one PC and transmitter.
the manhaj is salafus assholeh.
hopefully you can help us. since we have very low budget.
our needed are
-source of islamic JPG (big size) can you share your collection?
- we also need the video dawah that you have production, but in good quality (mpeg 7200 kbps is the minimum), hopefully the master (without english text) so we can give text in our language.
thanks for your help.
jazakalloh khoir..
wassalamu’alaykum
27 May 08
5:43 pm
Assalaamu alaikum
Looks like there is a rising star in the Muslim community who is right in there in showing how to be producers, editors. He’s also gathered a lot of Non-Muslim followers as well as Muslims.
Go to youtube, and search for offthehook2. Talented for sure. Glad to see Muslims sharing their knowledge.
27 May 08
5:44 pm
Forget, click on my name and it will take you to the many video tutorials on aftereffects, sony vegas, camera work, editing etc..
Keep up the work mastery…
wassalaam
23 Jun 08
7:30 pm
Asalamu Aleykum!!!
Shukur Allah !!!! I can’t register myself here!!! why?@#!
Hmmm…. am i late???! sorry but have learned just few hours before!!!!
I have PC (Windows Vista) about 1year old, Ulead Videostudio 11.0 and some other photo editors, Video Camera JVC 4 GB + use as a photo camera!!! Nokia 6300 -> some photos and videos !!! Planning to buy own laptop!!!<< have a lot of lamps and place to shot !!!! Trying to create some videos those need great improvment…. ideas comming but have a problem with right edit and ….??! I do like different kind of things, but prefer to choose education, history, religions, own memories, nation.
23 Jun 08
10:00 pm
Walaikum asalaam. You, you’re late. Course is already in session. InshaAllah in the future it may open up again so make du’aa that you get another opportunity at this.
24 Jun 08
2:58 pm
Hmm….
… insallah!!! 
I do hope i will have this opportunity!!!
May Allah jj let the right thing.
29 Jul 08
1:28 am
Jazaak Allaahu khayran, Belal, for this outstanding video. It’s really a great demonstration of how rarely it is the tools and how much it is the people & how they use them. Top-notch quality, and the SOUND was excellent, maa shaa Allaah!
29 Jul 08
2:39 am
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