“No budget filmmaking” is a term we hear a lot. But is it possible? Nearly. Here we will share the top tips to produce a no-budget film and getting your film finished, with (almost) Hollywood level quality…
Here we discuss the best ways on how you can get your film finished. You’ve slogged away for months coming up with the concepts, writing the film, and setting up a plan – but things change, money’s been spent and the films unfinished.
Don’t worry! It really isn’t over at all – you just need to reassess and pivot to get your film finished. Here are a few tips below.
1. Schedule the filming on the weekends.
“But I want to have a beer with my mates, this makes no sense at all,” you ask? With no budget filmmaking, you will want to look at actors who are up and coming – potentially still at acting school or work full time. The weekend opens up a larger pool of talent who will be keen to work for expenses to gain experience. This is also true for the crew as well. This is essential for no-budget filmmakers – offer a lovely warm meal and travel expenses, you may unearth the next George Clooney.
2. Tailor the script to locations you currently have free access to.
By tailoring the script to your readily available locations not only saves you a ton of time, but also allows you to save a shed load of money. Studios and sets are not cheap! Why not film the emotional return of the main character in your Nan’s kitchen, it’s not as glamorous but sure as heck with save you money. If you have access to the full house see if you can film multiple scenes as this will help save money.
READ MORE: Essential tips for an indie filmmaker
3. Have a strategy – You’ll encounter a LOT of surprises.
Creating your masterpiece will (unfortunately) take much longer than anticipated – but, will be more than worth it. This is why you must have a contingency plan. Things will never go to plan as you’d like. With flexibility and a fluid plan, there’s no reason you can’t overcome these obstacles – it’s all about how you react! It’ll be fine… We promise.
4. Make FULL use of filmmaking software to assist you.
The abundance of software to assist you with filmmaking is incredible. Use Celtx for the scriptwriting – they have a free version which is incredible. We do recommend buying editing software, Adobe is our preferred editing software (If you are a student they offer a very lucrative package) but if you want to spend £0 – iMovie will do the job. For creating storyboards we recommend: Boords. For shot lists, this has to be: Studiobinder.
READ MORE: How to get your film funded.
5. Ask your friends for help.
As easy as it sounds! See if any of your friends can chip in decorating sets, acting in a scene, makeup? Just ask. You’ll be surprised how many people will be keen to help you with your film. Round them up and feed them. A Phad Thai and some chicken wings – Sorted!
