I'm not a composer and consider myself musically inept, so I'll make this quick...
Recently, I've been inspired to learn the facets of filmmaking and composing has been one of the main staples. Any suggestions on how I can learn the ins and outs of composing for film?
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Hey there! It's awesome that you're diving into the world of film composing, even if you feel "musically inept." That curiosity is honestly one of the best qualities for a screenwriter to have! You definitely don't need to be a musician to grasp how powerful music is in film. It's really more about understanding storytelling through sound. You can learn by watching a scene you love and listening for the music's "job" in specific moments, watching interviews of film composers, and understanding the 'why' of film music.
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Great suggestions, Ronith.
Every composer has a different approach (I compose scores with my brother and we approach cues/scenes/films differently).
Anthony, I would start by examining your own film and music tastes. Compose a list of your favorite films and re-watch them. Are the films filled with sweeping orchestration or filled with modern song placements? Is each scene dripping with emotive music or is there barely any music with only the occasional solo cello? Are there memorable melodies in the scores or could you just feel the intensity/emotion of the scene without remembering a note? Then, check out who composed the music for the films on your list. You already know what you like, identifying what that "what" is will increase your ability to relate and communicate with your future composer. Good luck on your journey Anthony!