Anyone can make a short film, but if you want to create a quality one you need to invest time, money and prepare yourself properly. If this is truly your dream, take a closer look at the project now - it can make a big difference in the future.
Steps
Step 1. Don't just trust what you see in the lens
Here's a big secret: Anyone can record an image, but shooting a movie is a very different thing
Step 2. If you don't have a big budget, ask for help from people who have the right equipment to shoot a short film
Step 3. Learn to use the following features of your camera:
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Focus ring
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White balance
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Diaphragm
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Step 4. Get a copy of Steven Ascher and Edward Pincus' Filmmaker's Handbook
Read it to learn everything there is to know.
Step 5. Narration or documentary?
Download a free script writing program. One of the best is called Celtx.
If you want to make a science fiction movie, think of a story to base it on. You can get inspiration from everyday life, short stories, newspaper news etc
Step 6. Outline your idea
Write the script using Celtx; if you've never done this before, read some books that can help you in the process of writing and character development. You won't need anything else.
Step 7. Write the script
Step 8. Before you try your hand at writing, consider the fundamental points of a script:
- Character development
- Development of the plot
- Unexpected events
- Antihero
Step 9. Create a draft for each scene in the short film
Decide how to take each shot in advance. For example, wide shot, over one shoulder, in motion, close to foreground, close up, tracking shot, etc.
Step 10. Determine what you will need for each scene
It will be helpful for you to make a list.
Step 11. Decide the environment in which to shoot
Outside or inside?
Step 12. Make a list of the equipment you will need
Step 13. Select the actors and crew
Step 14. Choose the props, makeup, costumes, etc
Step 15. Begin the selection for actors and crew technicians
You will definitely need a large crew, but mostly you can't do without:
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Camera operator
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Photography director
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Sound technician
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Costume designer and make-up artist
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Set designers
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Lighting Technician
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Step 16. You must provide for the distribution of the script, food for the crew and expenses for the film
Step 17. Finish shooting
Step 18. Proceed with assembly
Don't use an expensive program. If you are talented, a free program may be more than enough. Don't buy the most expensive programs there are!
Step 19. Show it to family and friends, then post it on YouTube
If you intend to pursue this profession, send the short to agencies and participate in some film festival.
Step 20. Enjoy
Advice
- Make sure you've brought all your gear before you start shooting. It is best to plan everything in advance.
- Put on paper what you would like to accomplish. You can write a short paragraph or even the full script.
- Production choices depend on budget and needs: if you don't have much money, choose a simple subject, maybe something that belongs to everyday life.
- Do not lose sight of the overall vision of the project during the shoot. Also, don't forget to record the voices and sounds. You may need to use audio and video separately.
- To make a short, you have to be creative.
Warnings
- Check your equipment settings, otherwise you risk ruining a potentially perfect shot. It pays to review each scene after shooting.
- Some places and some people cannot be filmed without permission. Always ask the owners for permission and, as an added precaution, have an authorization document signed.
- Check the camera before recording; you may have forgotten to turn it on, losing precious shots!
