How to Make a No-Budget Movie

Many people are impressed by technical skill when watching a movie, and that is often how you can get your name recognized. But just as often, people are impressed when you can make a movie as cheaply as possible, because it tells the investors that you know how to save money and turn a profit. Follow these few simple steps to put together a movie that will get some attention without costing much.

Difficulty: Moderately Challenging

Instructions

1. Use a digital camera you already own or borrow one. Many indie films are shot in digital. If you own a digital camera or can borrow one, you save money on the device and on developing film. Smaller cameras will let you take shots you can't get with bulkier models, another advantage.

2. Cast amateurs by types, rather than actors. If you know someone who fits a part, use that person so you don't have to pay an actor. You can also find fledgling professional actors who will work for free in exchange for a credit and outtakes of the film for their own loops.

3. Shoot simple scenes. Don't break up your actors into multiple rooms or place them so far apart you'll need extensive cutting to make a coherent whole. Keep the scenes small with only one to three actors at a time and use nothing more complex than the occasional close up to create emphasis.

4. Make movements simple. You don't have the money for tracking shots or multiple takes, so limit movements to anything you can capture in a single shot. Use lots of dialogue to advance the plot since you can't use images and movements the way more pricey films do.

5. Use ordinary locations. Shoot in homes, local parks, your car, anywhere that doesn't require a fee. If a friend owns a special venue, such as a store or gym, and will let you film for nothing after hours, work it into your script.

6. Don't wait for the perfect take. Your actors and crew are working for free. They don't have the time and you don't have the budget to spend all day waiting for that perfect cloud to roll across the sky. You need to make your movie and get it out before the public. Make do with what you have.

Tips & Warnings

• Once you start shooting, try to get it done as fast as possible. While you may not get discouraged if it takes more than a week or two, your actors and friends might.
• Do not try to make a feature length film if you haven't made a short film yet. First make a 5-minute short just for practice.

Resources

• Studio Upstairs podcast
• Low-Budget Filmmaking

[PreteenMovier]

on 12/5/2008 =)
Thank You! I only have 8-10 dollars a month with a camera, bunch of friends, occasional internet access, editing, and a lot of ideas.