New to Filmmaking, tons of ideas, ready to learn

Looking to get into filmmaking on the side, never took it up in school, but have been reading a lot on it and realized small projects that I've been working on has been leading me in this path--without me really knowing it. Many things I've thought about when working on projects, I later ended up reading about in a book/websites. I'm looking to build a network of likeminded people who I can learn from in all different aspects of film, primarily directing, producing, lighting, types of cameras, and editing. All helpful tips would be appreciated. thank you