Lights, camera, traction on a shoestring budget
A killer idea for a movie but an empty wallet or tight corporate budget shouldn’t corner you to a silent, black-and-white film (though I do love that idea for my next corporate video…)
A lack of funds doesn't have to mean the death of your cinematic aspirations. In the film world, ingenuity is the name of the game, and duct tape is your best friend.
Let's face it: Hollywood budgets aren't within reach for most of us filmmakers. But some of the greatest films in history were made on shoestring budgets. Ever heard of Clerks or The Blair Witch Project? Both were made with little more than pocket change and a single camera person.
Lights, camera... budget?
Whether you’re filming a promotion video for your company, pushing a new product, or bringing your indie novel to life, there are ways to do so with minimal budget. Here’s my guide to DIY filmmaking.
DIY Filmmaking 101
How exactly can you movie magic without extensive funds? These are 5 of my top tips to DIY your recording on a budget:
1. Script savvy
Start with a killer script. No amount of fancy special effects can save a lousy story; without the latter, a great script can stand alone at the BAFTAs. Plan a narrative that can be brought to life with minimal resources.
2. Casting call
Forget A-list actors, your colleagues and teammates are going to be your cast. If you do need to outsource, you can tap into local acting talent or use voice actors sourced on Fiverr You'll be surprised at the talent that can be found online, working from their sound-proofed home offices.
3. Unique location
Free or low-cost filming locations exist. Public parks and abandoned buildings can give your work a gritty or down-to-earth feel. Your own home or office can be the setting of a masterpiece, or consider asking a local store or coffee shop to let you stay an hour after closing time to record.
4. Gear up
You don't need the latest and greatest camera equipment to make a film that will attract leads and sales. Many smartphones nowadays shoot high-quality video, and there are plenty of affordable DSLR cameras on the market. Get creative with your gear and focus on honing your storytelling skills.
5. DIY props and sets
Who needs a big-budget art department when you've got cardboard, paint, and a hot glue gun? Embrace the DIY spirit and get crafty with your props and sets. You'll be amazed at what you can create with a little imagination and elbow grease.
Funding a flick
If filmmaking isn’t your day job, or something you’re doing for your company but with a limited budget you might be planning a cinematic piece that will indeed require funding and some of your own pocket change. Here’s what you can do in that case.
Crowdfunding has emerged as a game-changer for independent filmmakers. Sites like Kickstarter and Indiegogo allow you to pitch your project to the masses and rally support from your peers.
Here’s another opportunity to get creative: with your crowdfunding campaign. Create a short film to showcase your plan, offer cool perks to backers, and don't be afraid to shamelessly promote your project on social media.
Lights, camera, distribution!
Congratulations, you've finished your film! Now what? There’s no content marketing without distribution, which means you need to get your work out there to gather leads, views, visibility, and possibly sales.
If you don’t have a big audience on social media, platforms like Vimeo On Demand and Prime Video Direct allow you to self-distribute your film to a global audience without ever setting foot in a movie theater. But don't stop there! Film festivals are another avenue you can use to get your work seen by industry insiders.
If your film was made for a corporation, they can pitch your film to partner companies to reshare via their distribution channels, email blast it out to subscribers, or use it via content syndication.
Roll the credits
With a little creativity and the right people on side, professional videos can happen on a shoestring budget.
If forming part of the next generation of DIY filmmakers isn’t for you, I can join you on the silver screen dream with all my nous and knowledge for brand filmmaking.
