Tips for Filmmaking Beginners on a Budget

Any filmmaking beginner or student starts off his career with making a short film. These films are usually micro-budgeted making it difficult to execute. Thus, it requires one’s utmost dedication and attention. However, at the same time, it is a test of one’s creative skills to manage everything under a low budget.

For many, low budget short films launched their careers.

Therefore, as a filmmaking beginner who is looking to make his mark in the industry, here are a few tips from us for you. Read them through before you go, “lights, camera, action!”

1. Resort to literature

Original is always a good idea but probably not at the start of your career. Do not turn your film into a bunch of sloppy scenes just for the sake of keeping it original. The vast world of literature is your savior. You do not have to replicate the entire script; you can adapt the story as per your creativity or take mere inspiration from it. Today, film producers are either making 3D versions of cartoon movies or remaking the classics. Thus, restoring to literature to make sure you produce a hit is a fair deal.

2. Use gears on rent

A short film itself translates into a low budget film. You should not expect from yourself to use high-end cameras or Hollywood Gears to shoot. However, this does not mean that you compromise on quality either. If you cannot afford the equipment required, consider Camera Rental from MPS Studios that rents the equipment used to make movies, commercials, and television shows. Not only do they have a wide equipment selection, but they also offer local pickup and shipping with superior customer service.

3. Shoot scenes at free locations

There is no need to pay thousands of dollars for a particular location or halt your production because you cannot find the perfect spot. Reach out to the experienced professionals in your circle and take suggestions on where you can shoot for cheap or free. One way to avoid paying the fee is by choosing public places. Be aware of your scene settings when you are doing pre-production.

4. Make the best use of natural lighting

There are now only a few things in this world that come free and natural lighting is one of them. While you are deciding locations for your scenes, look for places outside and try shooting scenes in bright daylight. This will help you cut your costs largely on lighting setups. Keeping in mind your location’s amenities will help you avoid costs, save time, and minimize equipment requirements. Even with lights, you can still shoot expressively. Be mindful that it is easier to create darkness than to create light.

5. Cut it out

Your film does not end at shooting. Editing is a major part of the production and defines the structure of the film. If you are low on budget and cannot hire a professional editor, take help from the various editing software easily accessible now. One must have the aesthetic sense of editing and knowledge of various montage techniques to make their film a treat to watch.