There is so much to learn when it comes to doing films... and you need to consider a lot of things... like the story, location shoots, cinematography, etc. Well, if you don't want your movie to flop... give keen attention to DETAILS.
- Make Sure your STORY is ORIGNAL and its worth telling.
- Don't settle for the conventional type of story... make sure that your story is something that would leave a mark to your audience. Make sure it has sense, but at the same time creative.
- Always have someone to critic your script... remember that best filmmakers always thinks that the script could get better. It is encouraged that you read your script aloud to have a better feel for the dialogue.
- Remember that a Script can either make or break your film... so take time in doing your script.
- BUDGET... BUDGET... BUDGET!
- This is very crucial in making a film. Especially when you are an independent filmmaker... so before you pack up for the shoot, make sure you have enough budget for your production needs. You must have a projected production cost. It is really important to have a good production manager to help in the budgeting and sponsorship for your production.
- CASTING
- In Independent filmmaking, because of low budget, they settle for non-professional actors, in choosing for the right characters for your film, consider the personality of the person applying for the role.
- WORKSHOP
- Conduct a workshop for your talents. This helps your talent to adjust in the actual shoot, and to be comfortable with the camera.
- LOCATION SCOUT
- It is recommend to conduct a location shoot that is necessary for your scenes, prior to the day of shooting.
- ASK PERMISSION
- Remember to ask permission before filming... make sure you have all the necessary documents such as contracts, talent forms, etc.
- SOUND CHECK!
- Be keen when it comes to sound, it is as important as visuals. Make sure that there are no unwanted sounds on your film.
- DON'T rely so much in Post Production
- If you see some lapses on your film prior to the post production, consider a re-shoot, or settle what needs to be settled while still on the shoot. Fixing takes so much time and not all fixes are very good.
- EDITING
- For your post production, you can edit your film using video editing softwares, examples of which are the Final Cut Pro and the Adobe Premiere Pro 2. Ask a friend who knows about these softwares to help you out... its actually easy to learn Video Editing :)
- Let your Film BE SEEN
- Use your film as an advancement to your next film. Show your film to as many people as you can.
- Have copies of DVDs and VCDs and have it send to competitions and film festivals.
Lastly,
DO NOT QUIT. Not all filmmakers gained recognition in their first films. Only people who are very passionate about films and never give up on their first failures in filmmaking, can make a name in the film industry. Remember that a
film is a filmmaker's identity.
