Instructions

• Step 1: Know what a B movie is Know what a B movie is: Once the second-billed movie of a double feature, today it means any super low-budget, formulaic film. So go ahead put that Oscar-worthy script away.
• Step 2: Choose a genre Decide what kind of B movie you want to make. Consider genres like horror, sci-fi, monster, exploitation, and kung fu, but don’t be afraid to mix and match for some true B movie magic.
• Step 3: Write a script Pen your script, and don’t you dare skimp on the corniness! Keep the plot paper-thin and the dialogue simple. Throw in some choice one-liners for your hero when the melodrama reaches a fever pitch.
• Step 4: Cast actors Cast the hammiest actors you can find. When making a B movie, looks definitely trump talent, so words like “overacting” and “over-the-top” only mean your movie will be overly awesome!
• TIP: If your B movie calls for a damsel in distress, be sure she can shriek bloody murder and faint on cue — often in that order.
• Step 5: Start filming! Once you’ve gathered low-budget props and jury-rigged a shoddy set, you’re ready to start filming your B movie! Don’t get caught up in trivial technicalities like the action going out of frame or a visible boom mike, but do keep 2 words in mind: Dramatic. Close-ups.
• Step 6: Hold a screening Once your film’s in the can, hold a screening of your masterpiece. After all, half of the joy of B movies is having someone to watch — and laugh — with!
• FACT: The parasitic jewel wasp turns cockroaches into zombies by injecting venom into their brains and laying an egg in their abdomens, where its larvae then hatch… and eat.

You Will Need

• Knowledge of B movies
• Genre
• Corny script
• Hammy actors
• Props
• Set
• Damsel in distress (optional)

Transcript

How to say, “You’re welcome” in Italian. “Prego.” You’re welcome. Prego. You’re welcome. Prego. Now you try.

To say “No problem,” “Non c’è problema.” Not a problem. Non c’è problema. Not a problem. Non c’è problema. Now you try.

To say “Anytime,” “Sempre.” Anytime. Sempre. Anytime. Sempre. Now you try.

And to say, “My pleasure,” “è stato un piacere.” It was a pleasure. È stato un piacere. Now you try.

And that’s how you say “You’re welcome” in Italian.

Instructions

• Step 1: Pick a product Pick a product that’s easy to use and cheap to manufacture. Does it appeal to daytime TV aficionados, stoned college kids, and insomniacs desperate for human contact? You bet it does! Give your product a short name, so you can sell it fast.
• Step 2: Locate a shill Find someone who wants nothing more than to proclaim the wonder of your product. Just give them a headset mic and watch as they do the work for you — incredible!
• TIP: Team your spokesperson with a dubiously qualified expert to add a little more clout to your infomercial.
• Step 3: Construct a set Choose a setting where your spokesperson can demonstrate your product’s extraordinary value in everyday situations. Cooking food, cleaning the house, hanging out with friends — how you show off your wares is all up to you!
• TIP: You can add a demonstration in an extreme situation to highlight even more incredible qualities.
• Step 4: Get testimonials Find a few average Joes willing to speak about your product’s amazing abilities in quick, 3-second sound bites. But, wait — there’s more!
• Step 5: Add shipping and handling For a big finish, overprice your product by an unconscionable amount, then slash the price in half and throw in a cheap related gadget. Finally, offer a two-for-one deal and never before seen prices, and have a deep-voiced announcer tell people how to order. Then, start thinking of the next product you can sell, today!
• FACT: The term “free gift” — commonly used at the end of infomercials to help seal the deal — is redundant.

You Will Need

• Product
• Spokesperson
• Headset mic
• Set
• Average Joes
• Related product
• Low price
• Deep-voiced announcer
• Dubious expert (optional)
• Extreme scenario (optional)

Instructions

• Step 1: Write a script Write a script for your film. Consider what blocks and figures, known as minifigs, you have and your familiarity with filming techniques to help you decide how complex to make your screenplay.
• Step 2: Pick a frame rate Choose a frame rate for your film — calculated in frames per second, or FPS. A higher FPS means more work moving each brick piece to establish continuity between many shots, but leads to a smoother final product.
• TIP: Since many live-action films are shot at 24 FPS, consider using a frame rate of 24 or one of its divisors, such as 6 or 12.
• Step 3: Set the timing Plan your animation. Use a storyboard to map out the camera angle and design of each scene. Write out an exposure sheet, too — this list details the composition of each individual picture you take and how the frame will fit into the finished film.
• Step 4: Design the set Assemble a minifig cast and build brick sets and props. Then, place lights around the set. Experiment with different angles, wattages, and gels to create the right mood and visibility for each moment.
• Step 5: Shoot the film Shoot the film. Use a tripod and cable release to stabilize the camera as you take still pictures. Adjust and lock in the plastic objects in each frame with your fingers or tweezers; secure loose pieces with adhesive putty. Mount the tripod on a dolly and secure it to a track to stabilize the camera for mobile filming.
• TIP: You can also shoot with a webcam or video camera connected to a computer with stop-motion animation software.
• Step 6: Edit the film Load your pictures onto a computer and use video-editing software to adjust the film’s pacing and create smooth transitions between scenes. Then, use a microphone and software to add music, voice-over, and sound effects to your movie.
• Step 7: Add effects Use compositing software to create special effects and crop unnecessary elements. Then, do a final edit and add credits before premiering your masterpiece.
• FACT: As of 2010, the 1964 stop-motion animation film Rudolph the Red-Nosed Reindeer is the longest-running televised holiday special.

You Will Need

• Script
• Plastic blocks and figures
• Storyboard
• Exposure sheet
• Lights
• Colored gels
• Camera
• Tripod
• Cable release
• Tweezers
• Adhesive putty
• Dolly
• Track
• Computer
• Video-editing software
• Compositing software
• Stop-motion animation software (optional)

Instructions

• Step 1: Take lots of footage Videotape your dog when they’re barking and chewing. You’ll need about 30 minutes of footage of them with their mouth moving.
• Step 2: Load it onto a computer Load the footage onto a computer.
• Step 3: Edit it Open up a video-editing program and edit the raw footage down to the best 3 minutes or so, using 20 to 30 second chunks.
• Step 4: Work out a script Write a script that matches their mouth movements as closely as possible.
• TIP: If they make a funny expression or gesture, think about how you can work that into their monologue.
• Step 5: Record the voice Record the voice into a computer microphone as you watch the edited video. If your video-editing program has a voice-over tool, you can add the voice directly to your movie. If not, open up a dedicated audio program and record the VO separately. Then import the audio file into your editing program and combine the audio and video.
• Step 6: Show off Show off your talking-dog video clip to your friends and family.
• FACT: Actress Lindsay Lohan sued E-Trade over a commercial featuring a talking baby named Lindsay who was called a “milkaholic.”

You Will Need

• Dog
• Video camera
• Computer
• Video-editing software
• Computer microphone
• Voice-over tool or audio program

Instructions

• Step 1: Research and network Read books, articles, and attend seminars on the subject of buying film rights. Network at film festivals with producers and writers who have already succeeded in buying film rights for a book.
• Step 2: Get an attorney Get an attorney who practices entertainment law and has specific experience negotiating contracts in Hollywood, especially with securing film rights for literary material.
• TIP: An option period will normally span 1 year to 18 months and should include provisions holding the purchaser accountable to actively try to sell the film property.
• Step 3: Set a purchase price Negotiate a purchase price with the author even if only paying an option fee for the temporary exclusive right to create and sell the script, based on the literary property. After this term, the rights again revert to the author.
• Step 4: Insert provision Insert a clause into the purchase agreement that explicitly states the producer is under no obligation to produce the film. No studio will buy a film script based on a book without this provision.
• Step 5: Provide the author royalties Provide the author in writing with standard rights to royalties for sequels, prequels, and TV series monies that might eventually result from a production of the author’s work.
• TIP: Though gross and net profit payments are unlikely to ever be realized in Hollywood film deals, sweeten the deal by giving the author a percentage of the profits as co-producer.
• Step 6: Get it in writing Insist the author state in writing that the characters in his optioned work do not appear in any other books that might have already been purchased by another person or production company.
• Step 7: Include credit for author Stipulate in the contract the right to use the name and likeness of the author to promote the film. Conform to all Writer’s Guild rules in determining how and when the author’s and screenwriter’s names will appear in the credits.
• FACT: Humorist Art Buchwald sued Eddie Murphy and Paramount Pictures in 1988 for taking his story, which became the film Coming to America.

You Will Need

• Research
• Network
• Attorney
• Negotiation

Instructions

• Step 1: Blow it up Create an action-packed thrill ride. Include a dashing hero who defeats a devious villain, wins a sexy love interest, and goes from narcissist to selfless savior, all in 90 minutes. Blow things up often to remind the audience of the movie’s high stakes — and because it’s freakin’ sick!
• Step 2: Animate it Send a cute, social-outcast object or animal on an animated adventure. Have them join other misunderstood creatures to solve a problem and return home, all while making oblique yet bawdy sexual references.
• TIP: If possible, write a song for the soundtrack about friendship to help you win awards.
• Step 3: Go over-the-top Script an insane comedy. Include plenty of potty humor and ridiculous lines that make people laugh too hard to notice that the main character has learned nothing, and that the world might actually be a better place without them in it.
• Step 4: Bring it to life Use characters from old toys, cartoons, or comic books in a live-action film, and give the audience a chance to reconnect with its past. Take the plot in an implausibly dark direction so studio execs think you’re a psychotic genius rather than a lazy hack with a Peter Pan complex.
• TIP: If your chosen throwback toy or cartoon doesn’t lend itself to a blockbuster film, distract filmgoers with gratuitous nudity.
• Step 5: Pack it in Stuff all the elements into one incredible hodgepodge. Use old characters in a movie with multiple explosions, animated sequences, and tons of fart jokes. Just make sure to leave room for your hero to save the day in future movies — the only thing more successful than a summer blockbuster is its sequel.
• FACT: Jaws, released in 1975, is often considered the first summer blockbuster.

You Will Need

• Pen
• Willingness to pander
• Plot (optional)
• Wit (optional)
• Imagination (optional)

Instructions

• Step 1: Build a track record Build a track record by working in the industry; then make your own low budget short film. First attempts sometimes get noticed by people with money.
• Step 2: Borrow money from friends Borrow money from everyone, offering them speaking parts, food, autographs, or a chance to make you happy. Have a good film story with which to hook them.
• Step 3: Network for contacts Network by attending film festivals, especially smaller ones where you can stand out, and be active in online forums.
• Step 4: Hire smart Develop an accurate budget and anticipate questions. Get written bids to impress professional investors.
• TIP: In your budget projections, show you are covering every avenue for profit.
• Step 5: Get a completion bond Secure a completion bond or insurance policy that assures an investor the film will be finished if problems arise.
• Step 6: Make a sound business plan Prepare a sound business plan for all investors, as you would for a bank loan. Include the film script and shooting schedule, and have your accountant or business manager approve the final draft.
• TIP: Attract grassroots contributions by posting shorts online that demonstrate your talents. Track hits and commentary to convince investors you have gained an audience.
• Step 7: Find Hollywood film producers Find companies on the web or in publications like the “Hollywood Producers” or “Representation” directories that buy out or co-produce well-developed projects.
• FACT: Over 60 percent of all films are money losers, and at least another 25 percent do little better than break even.

You Will Need

• Film script
• Short film
• Networking skills
• Budget
• Completion bond or insurance policy
• Business plan

Instructions

• Step 1: Set up the shot Set up the shot. Position the talent or stand-in as far from the screen as possible while keeping them in the frame. Place the lights for the screen behind or beside the talent to avoid shadows. Light the talent independently from the screen.
• TIP: For full-body shots, lay non-green blankets or poster board on the floor around the talent to reduce reflected green light.
• Step 2: Light the screen Once everything is in place, take the actor out of the equation. Diffuse the lights with gels, reposition the barn doors, and move the lights so the screen is lit as evenly as possible.
• Step 3: Find hot spots Use your camera’s “zebra” function to find hotspots. Close the iris; then slowly open it. If stripes appear in some patches before others, adjust the lights so the screen is illuminated more evenly. If the stripes appear uniform, you’re good to go.
• Step 4: Light the talent Turn the screen lights off and light the talent. Keep in mind the lighting needs to match the background that will be composited into the scene later. Additional lights and gels may be required; use any gel as long as it doesn’t closely match the screen’s hue.
• Step 5: Turn it all on Turn all the lights on and make sure no green light is reflected on the talent. Reduce spill by adjusting or adding lights, or by moving the talent further away from the screen.
• Step 6: Practice Practice lighting a green screen as much as possible in order to finesse your technique and get the best look every time. Now there’s no limit to where your creative vision can take you!
• FACT: The green screen technique, officially known as the chroma key process, also works with red and blue, but filmmakers don’t use red because it’s a dominant color in human skin tone.

You Will Need

• Talent or stand-in
• Green screen
• 3 or more lights with barn doors
• Diffusion gels
• Camera with “zebra” function
• Practice
• Blankets or poster board (optional)

Instructions

• Step 1: Drill wheel holes Measure and mark 4 inches in from each end along one side of the aluminum. Mark the center of the piece on that same side. On the other side, measure and mark 6 inches in from each end and 2 inches to one side of the center. Drill at each mark to make holes for the wheels and repeat the process with the other aluminum piece.
• Step 2: Finish drilling aluminum Measure and mark the corner edge of each piece of aluminum 12 inches in from both ends. Drill holes at each marking that will be used to attach the aluminum to the plywood.
• Step 3: Finish casters Put a washer on a 2-inch carriage bolt and thread it through the outside of a wheel. Put three more washers on it and thread it through a wheel hole in the angled aluminum. Put on another washer and tighten it with a nut. Repeat the process for the other 11 wheels.
• Step 4: Prepare the wood Draw two parallel lines on the plywood, each one a foot from two opposing edges. Measure and mark the lines 4 inches from each end. Drill holes at each mark.
• Step 5: Attach the aluminum Attach the aluminum to the wood by lining up the holes in the aluminum with the holes in the wood. Thread each of the 4-inch carriage bolts through a washer, the aluminum, the wood, another washer, and a nut. Tighten the nuts until the tracks are held securely in place.
• TIP: For added control, build a waist-high handle to the platform.
• Step 6: Lay down the track Lay the two sections of pipe on the ground so they’re parallel to each other. Set the wooden platform down so the wheels roll on the pipe. Put a camera on a tripod on the platform and you’re ready to go.
• FACT: The Italian film Cabiria released in 1914 was the first popular film to feature a dolly shot.

You Will Need

• Tape measure
• 2 3′ long 2" x 2" pieces of angled aluminum
• Drill
• 3/8" bit
• 60 flat washers
• 12 3/8" x 2" carriage bolts
• 16 nuts
• 12 skateboard wheels
• 2 adjustable wrenches
• 3′ x 3′ u00be" plywood
• 4 3/8" x 4" carriage bolts
• 2 20′ pieces 2" PVC
• A camera
• A tripod

Instructions

• Step 1: Finish an entire script Write and revise an entire script. Unless you already have a reputation, you won’t be able to sell a treatment, a synopsis, or anything else but a full, complete script. In the industry, this is known as a “spec” script.
• TIP: Make sure your screenplay is properly formatted. You can find information on proper screenplay format online. Or, use script-writing software to simplify the process.
• Step 2: Register your script Register your screenplay with the Writers Guild of America. Got to wga.org to find out about the registration process and how it can protect you.
• Step 3: Come up with The Sentence Distill the plot of the screenplay down into one sentence, known as the “logline.” Whenever you meet anyone who might be interested or might know someone who is interested in your screenplay, you can tell them the story without wasting their time with 15 minutes of explanation.
• Step 4: Research potential markets Generate a list of potential markets by identifying the production companies that make films similar to yours. Reference books and typing production companies’ names into a search engine can help you locate mailing addresses and the right contact names.
• Step 5: Send out letters Send query letters to production companies, and to agents listed in the Hollywood Creative Directory. Your query should be no longer than a page, and should include a one-line summary of your screenplay, a synopsis, and a self-addressed, stamped envelope for their reply.
• TIP: Do not send unsolicited screenplays. They will be ignored and filed – in the trash bin.InkTip is a website that has a newsletter you can subscribe to that you get weekly requests for scripts from production companies and producers. I’ve noticed some good companies requesting lately.
• Step 6: Sell If an agent likes what they see, they’ll take over the job of selling your screenplay, and they’ll take a commission of your earnings if a production company buys your work. Or even better, a production company might purchase it directly from you or offer you an option – payment for exclusive rights to produce your screenplay within a certain timeframe.
• FACT: In 2005, the Writers Guild of America registered 40,000 screenplays.

You Will Need

• An original screenplay
• A copy of the latest Hollywood Creative Directory
• Script-writing software (optional) (optional) (optional) (optional) (optional)

Instructions

• Step 1: Smear on latex Smear on a generous layer of liquid latex with a cotton swab in the desired shape and size of your wound. Three to four inches will look realistic.
• TIP: Go to any Halloween or party supply store to find liquid latex.
• Step 2: Create the gash Use a toothpick to score a line in the center of the latex, which will become the bleeding gash. Let it dry for a few minutes, and then use a toothpick to open up the gash even more, creating a jagged, uneven line and curled-up edges.
• Step 3: Blend in bruising Use a cotton swab dipped in a tiny drop of purple paint and dab it around the outer edges of the wound to create a bruised look.
• TIP: Use a stipple sponge for an even more realistic look when applying the paint.
• Step 4: Create scrapes Dip another cotton swab in the red and brown paint and dab around the opening of the gash. That will create the look of scraped skin.
• Step 5: Mix and apply blood Mix the fake blood by combining the corn syrup, red and blue food coloring, and dish soap. Use a toothpick to apply a thin layer of blood to the gash.
• TIP: You can also use ready-made fake blood gel.
• Step 6: Get gory Go over the gash again with a blood-dipped cotton swab that is saturated to fill the gash completely and create oozing gore.
• FACT: More than 100 gallons of fake blood were used in the film Kill Bill: Vol. 1.

You Will Need

• Liquid latex
• 2-3 cotton swabs
• 2-3 toothpicks
• Purple
• red
• and brown acrylic paint
• 2/3 c. white corn syrup
• 1 tsp. red food coloring
• 2-3 drops blue food coloring
• 2-3 drops dish soap

Instructions

• Step 1: Open FinalCut Studio Open Final Cut Studio software.
• Step 2: Matting out subject’s face Use Alex4D.com 8 Point-Matte for matte effect. Matte out subject’s face and layer an effect from DetonationFilms.com behind subject’s matted face.
• Step 3: Key frame matte Key frame matte if subject is moving.
• Step 4: Check key framing and add sound effects Use keyboard arrows to go frame by frame to make sure the clip is key-framed well. Make sure to layer your effects over the top of each other and add sound effects.

You Will Need

• Green Screen
• Video Editing Suite with ChromaKey/Color Key
• Alex4D.com: 8 Point-Matte
• DetonationFilms.com GFX

Instructions

• Step 1: Understand the mouth Understand the inside of your mouth.
• Step 2: Touch the back of your tongue to your uvula Move your lower jaw back and lift the back of your tongue up so it slightly touches your uvula.
• Step 3: Vibrate your uvula Breathe out and vibrate your uvula.
• Step 4: Practice Practice.
• Step 5: Move your head and make the noise Tilt your head back and move your head left or right as you make the noise.
• Step 6: Record yourself Not impressed? Buy a sound recorder.

You Will Need

• Your mouth
• The ability to control the muscles inside your mouth

Instructions

• Step 1: Assemble a cast First assemble a cast of willing participants.
• Step 2: Find wardrobe Find wardrobe that fits their character.
• Step 3: Design the set Be sure to design the set to help make your ransom video warm and inviting.
• Step 4: Use body language Body language is important when demanding a ransom.
• Step 5: Get a camera Find yourself a camera with exposure settings and choice of manual or auto focus. Having these basic options increases the production quality more than you might realize.
• Step 6: Capture sound Good sound is ubber-critical. Utilize a shotgun mic and boom pole. Hold the boom with fingertips to minimize operator noises. This will also allow you to twist the boom and follow quick actor movements.
• FACT: Using a boom provides clear and focused audio without camera noise or dirty sound.
• TIP: Check out 3-point lighting videos on Howcast.
• Step 7: Move dolly We come now to the dolly move. You must begin the dolly move with your feet in a walking decision. Keep it steady, smooth, and further to a stop. The same goes for the reverse dolly: heel toe, heel toe.

You Will Need

• A cast and crew
• Wardrobe
• A location and set
• A boom pole and microphone
• A camera
• Lights (refer to Howcast’s 3-Point Lighting video)
• A skateboard dolly or similar contraption
• A goal

Instructions

• Step 1: Pick aspect ratio Pick an aspect ratio for shooting.
• TIP: The aspect ratio is the physical proportion of the image you’re capturing, measured horizontally then vertically. Most television is 4:3 and film is typically 16:9.
• Step 2: Multiply the ratio by ¼ inch Multiply the dimensions of your aspect ratio by a ¼ inch.
• Step 3: Draw frames With a pencil and a ruler, draw out boxes, called frames, on 11-by-17-inch paper. They should match the dimensions from Step 2, and there should be at least four frames on each sheet of paper with a fair amount of space under each for script, directions, and notes.
• TIP: You can also draw these boxes using a computer layout program.
• Step 4: Make enough sheets for the project Reproduce as many storyboard sheets as you will need for your project.
• Step 5: Start drawing Using your script as a guide, start drawing. Use one frame for every cut, or in animation, one frame per specific gesture or motion.
• TIP: Add notes for scenes that require extra attention, such as pans, tilts, crane movements, or zooms.
• Step 6: Draw important scenes first on separate sheets Draw key scenes first on separate sheets, making it easier to rearrange them.
• Step 7: Check your script Continuously check your script. Rearrange parts of the storyboard as you go if you need to make edits.
• Step 8: Show it off Use your completed storyboard to show people how you envision your script coming to life.
• FACT: The storyboarding process was first developed by the Walt Disney Studios in the early 1930s.

You Will Need

• Several loose sheets of blank 11-by-17-inch paper
• A pencil
• A ruler
• And a shooting script
• Computer with layout program

Instructions

• Step 1: Select an editing system Select an editing system. Not everyone has the budget for an Avid setup, or even Final Cut Pro, but there are still plenty of great options for all types of filmmakers. Final Cut Express is very affordable.
• Step 2: Load your raw footage Load your raw footage onto your computer’s hard drive.
• Step 3: Practice basic editing Arrange some sample clips on a test timeline to get used to your editing system.
• TIP: As you’re learning, watch your favorite films over and over, and see what about the editing makes them so great.
• Step 4: Explore transitions Explore the different types of transitions available for editing.
• Step 5: Learn other basics Learn all the other basics of your specific editing program. You’ll want to be able to do whatever you want when editing your film, so study and practice as much as you can now.
• TIP: Read books on editing theory, or try to work with an established editor to learn some skills firsthand.
• Step 6: Start editing When you feel confident, start editing your film.
• TIP: An old editing tip is ‘cut on action,’ meaning make the cut while someone is in the middle of doing something. Carefully matching the action in each shot will make the cut less noticeable.
• Step 7: Make a rough cut Make a rough cut of the film by finding the best takes of every scene and assembling them.
• TIP: Editing can change the pacing, flow, and even mood of a film. Quick cuts can add tension and smooth transitions connect different pieces of the story.
• Step 8: Lay in audio After you’re happy with your rough cut, lay in music, sound effects, and so on.
• Step 9: Practice Keep working. Editing your movie may take months, but you’ll gain skill and insight with each passing day.
• FACT: Martin Scorsese and Steven Spielberg reportedly do not allow any actors in the cutting room.

You Will Need

• Footage
• An editing system

Instructions

• Step 1: Make a shot list Make a shot list for your film. Trying to decide shots on the fly wastes time and money.
• TIP: Storyboard each shoot—that is, sketch out the action and shots in each scene—so you know exactly what you want.
• Step 2: Make a shooting schedule Make a shooting schedule so you know exactly what you are going to shoot when—and stick to it.
• Step 3: Learn camera movements Learn the six basic camera movements: tilting and panning (aiming the camera up and down and side to side), trucking and dollying (physically moving the camera right and left and forward and backward), arcing (moving the camera around your subject in an arc), and craning (moving the camera vertically).
• TIP: If you have room in the budget, invest in a small jib and a dolly to get a few special shots. No money for a dolly? Use a wheelchair or shopping cart.
• Step 4: Use multiple cameras If you can afford it, shoot a scene with multiple cameras from multiple angles. It’ll make editing easier and allow for more compelling and varied scenes.
• Step 5: Choose lenses and filters Choose lenses and filters that fit your scenes. Different focal lengths result in different depths of field and fields of view.
• Step 6: Pick a depth of field Select the depth of field, or the distance around the subject that will be in focus. A large depth of field creates stunning details, while a small depth allows you to focus attention on the subject.
• Step 7: Do multiple takes Once you’re ready, start shooting, and always do multiple takes of a scene.
• Step 8: Experiment Don’t be afraid to experiment a little—the shot list isn’t etched in stone. If the creative impulse strikes you, try something new, like shooting from a different vantage point.
• TIP: Be patient. Actors may not get scenes for several takes, lights may burn out—just take a deep breath and keep going.
• Step 9: Guard your footage When you’re done, guard your footage with your life. Never leave film or tapes in a car—take it with you wherever you go. Now get editing!
• FACT: On a film set, the last shot of the day is called the ‘martini shot.’

You Will Need

• A film or video camera
• A camera tripod
• Storyboards
• A jib
• A dolly
• wheelchair
• or shopping cart

Instructions

• Step 1: Learn microphones Learn the most common types of microphones, from wireless to boom, and learn when to use them.
• Step 2: Assign the boom mic Find the tallest person on your set and assign him to hold the boom mic. Give him a set of headphones and a mixer, if you have one. Tell your boom operator to aim the mic at whoever is talking.
• TIP: Be sure to keep the boom—and its shadow—out of the frame!
• Step 3: Alert the set Make sure everyone on your set knows when you’re recording sound. Be sure to have someone yell out rolls and cuts. If someone is making loud noise in the background, go over and ask if they mind stopping until you get your shot.
• Step 4: Monitor sound levels Using the meters on your camera or mixers, monitor sound levels when you’re recording. Make sure actors are loud enough to be heard, but not so loud that they’re ‘in the red.’
• TIP: Always, always make sure microphones are turned on and working—nothing kills an otherwise successful day of shooting like finding out that there’s no sound.
• Step 5: Use windscreens Use windscreens on your boom mic where appropriate, specifically when you’re shooting outdoors.
• Step 6: Mix the sound Once everything is recorded and the film is edited, mix the audio for the movie. This can be done on a mixing console or on a computer with a mixing suite. Use good speakers—and never mix while wearing headphones.
• TIP: If you can afford it, have a professional sound engineer do your mix for you.
• Step 7: Editing volumes If you’re stuck mixing the sound on your own, first practice changing volumes—make dialogue louder or background sounds softer.
• Step 8: Use music and sound effects If possible, use music and sound effects in your edit. But be careful—if you’re using someone else’s work, be sure to get the proper licenses.
• FACT: The first Academy Award for Sound Editing, then known as the Academy Award for Best Sound Effects, went to Walter Eliot in 1963 for It’s a Mad, Mad, Mad, Mad World.

You Will Need

• Good microphones
• including a boom mic and some lavaliers
• Audio editing software
• A professional sound engineer

Instructions

• Step 1: Work with what’s there Before you start hauling lights around, take note of where you’re filming and see if it’s possible to work with what’s already there.
• TIP: Always set up the camera and block the scene before you start lighting—otherwise you’ll waste a lot of time if you discover you have to move the shot and then redo all the lights.
• Step 2: Attach filters and barn doors Before flipping on the lights, attach scrims, “barn door” flaps, and diffusion gels (with clothespins) as needed. These will help you control the quality and quantity of the light.
• TIP: Be careful with barn doors—they can get extremely hot very quickly! Wear protective gloves, if necessary.
• Step 3: Position the lights Position the lights in the room. For a good multipurpose setup, use three lights in a classic arrangement know as ‘three point lighting.’
• Step 4: Set up key light Put one light in front of and slightly above your subject at a 45-degree angle. This is the key light.
• Step 5: Add a back light Add a second light behind and above the subject. This is the backlight, and it helps separate the subject from the background.
• Step 6: Add fill light Add the third light on the opposite side of the key light. This is the fill light. The light from this source should be indirect or diffuse, so consider reflecting it, or shining it off a wall or at the ceiling.
• TIP: If you’re shooting on the fly and don’t have time to set up three-point lighting, turn on every non-fluorescent light in a room, bounce light onto the actors, and add a light or two.
• Step 7: Avoid extremes While lighting can vary wildly, it’s generally a good idea to avoid extremes—too much light and everything looks bleached; not enough light and things look grainy and colorless.
• Step 8: Experiment and practice Proper lighting is hard work and takes a lot of practice. Experiment on your own, and when its time to shoot you’ll be well prepared.
• FACT: Citizen Kane is renowned for its unconventional, expressionistic lighting—many critics consider it stylistically to be a film noir.

You Will Need

• Lights
• Stands
• Gels
• filters
• and flaps
• A power source
• Extension cords
• Reflectors

Instructions

• Step 1: Make a budget Make a budget for what you can spend on gear. If you skip this step, you risk finding yourself with a camera but not enough money for a tripod.
• Step 2: Consider insurance Consider insurance. It might seem expensive, but it’s nothing compared to breaking a brand-new camera. Also, you will need insurance to rent equipment.
• Step 3: Go through your shots Go through your shot list and determine your general needs. For example, if your entire movie takes place outdoors during the day, you can pretty safely divert your lighting budget elsewhere.
• TIP: Consider shooting in digital—it’s cheaper, easier, and, if you know what you’re doing, it can look fantastic. Also, high-definition cameras are rapidly dropping in price.
• Step 4: Schedule smartly Be smart about scheduling. If you want to rent something special—like a jib—for a few shots, schedule those shots together.
• TIP: If you’re going to rent gear, make sure your insurance will cover it—and inspect everything carefully before taking it out.
• Step 5: Get lights Get your lights. Try to use multipurpose lights. Make sure you have protective gloves and the proper stands.
• TIP: For really shoestring situations, substitute industrial or construction lights. If you’re creative, you can find lights at a hardware store that can do in a pinch—or make them yourself using photoflood bulbs, sockets, diffusion, gels, and plywood.
• Step 6: Select microphones Pick out microphones that will suit your film. Use shotgun mics to record from a distance and lavaliers to attach to your talent. Never rely on on-camera microphones.
• TIP: Good audio is essential. An audience can adjust to camcorder-level video if it’s shot and edited well, but if they can’t hear what your characters are saying, they’ll ask to see the manager and demand a refund.
• Step 7: List supporting gear Make a definitive list of everything else you need, from tripods to traveling cases to cables to reflectors. Don’t skip this step—a camera is worthless without film.
• Step 8: Shop wisely When you’re ready to get your equipment, try to find discounts on rental equipment, or considering borrowing from friends. If you rent gear on Friday and return it Monday morning, most rental houses will only charge you for one day!
• FACT: Shot for just $35,000, The Blair Witch Project made $250 million!

You Will Need

• A shot list
• A tentative shooting schedule
• A place to buy or rent movie equipment
• A budget

Instructions

• Step 1: Pick roles Pick the roles you need to cast. Focus on the lead roles—there’s no point in spending too much time casting Background Cowboy Number Four.
• Step 2: Advertise Put an ad in local talent trade magazines explaining what you’re looking for. Specify whether this will be a union or non-union job.
• TIP: Inform local talent agencies when and where you’ll be holding auditions, and give them detailed profiles of the characters that you’re casting, as well as a copy of the script.
• Step 3: Go public If you want to go totally indie, post casting notices online, in newspapers, or on bulletin boards at colleges. You’ll get a huge turnout.
• Step 4: Organize the audition Organize the audition, either with a first-come-first-served sign-up sheet, or by assigning tryout times to talent beforehand. You can also bring in groups to work off each other.
• TIP: Consider having a friend on hand to help out as a casting associate.
• Step 5: Distribute audition parts Distribute what you want people to read for the audition. Look for a part of your script that will give the actors a chance to show insight into their characters.
• TIP: Give scripts out beforehand if you’re looking for polish and nuance, when actors arrive if you’re looking for the ability to create a character quickly, or when actors enter the audition room if you want to see raw talent.
• Step 6: Be friendly When the day comes, be friendly to the talent. A smile, some relaxed banter and a comfortable atmosphere will bring out better performances than rudeness and arrogance.
• Step 7: Tape auditions Videotape each audition, no matter how well you take notes or how sharp your memory is.
• TIP: Ask the actor’s permission to be taped, and have him say his name into the camera before he starts.
• Step 8: Explain the role Explain the role to each person. Giving some insight into what you’re looking for will ease nerves and inspire better performances.
• Step 9: Pay attention Pay close attention to each audition. Make notes on appearance, voice, and, most importantly, acting ability.
• TIP: Usually, some combination of a casting director, a producer, and the director watch the auditions, take notes, and influence casting.
• Step 10: Keep things moving Keep things moving. Give each person an equal chance, maybe two or three reads if you have time, then send them out with the assurance that you’ll let them know.
• Step 11: Make initial judgments After you’re done with the auditions, make a list of those actors who you thought had merit. Keep the cut actors on file, just in case you need extras.
• Step 12: Cast each role From your shortlist, cast each role, starting with the leads. Don’t be afraid to make bold choices.
• Step 13: Contact the actors Contact the actors. Thank everyone who tried out and offer parts, as well as pay packages, to the select few. If you have a tight budget, you can pay with points—or a share in future profits.
• FACT: Hugh Laurie auditioned for the lead role in the TV hit House via a video he made in a hotel bathroom in Namibia, where he was shooting a film.

You Will Need

• A place to hold auditions
• Talent trade magazines and websites
• Copies of the script
• A video camera with a tripod and the ability to record sound
• Local casting agencies

Instructions

• Step 1: Plan an ideal budget Sit down with the director and plan out an ideal movie budget. It doesn’t have to be too detailed.
• TIP: A budget is typically divided into four cost sections: talent, production, post-production, and miscellaneous.
• Step 2: Cut the ideal budget in half Now, tell the director you want to slash the budget in half. He’ll probably be furious, but it’ll help him think in terms of dollars and cents.
• TIP: Hiring film students, shooting digitally, and using unknown actors and cheap locations will bring down the budget.
• Step 3: Explain all expenses Make the new, cheaper budget include explanations for every single penny the director intends to spend. This version of the budget should be dozens of pages long.
• Step 4: Delegate the initial investment Delegate the initial investment. Ideally, most of it will go to shoot impressive scenes that will then be used to raise more money for the film. You’ll need a bit of it yourself, though, to finance your fundraising efforts.
• TIP: If you don’t have an initial investment, you’ll need to use money from your own pocket. Make sure that your contract with the director clearly reflects this risk.
• Step 5: Apply for grants Apply for filmmaking grants. There are institutions the world over that give money to new and independent filmmakers. Find them, and apply for every single grant that they offer, no matter how unlikely it is that you’ll get it.
• Step 6: Find investors Find investors. Go through your alma mater or professional contacts.
• Step 7: Present confidently When you do land meetings with potential investors, be confident. Talk up the director, the plot, and the starring actors. Never stray too far from your claim that the movie is a sure thing to make back its investment.
• TIP: If you don’t yet have footage when seeking investors, show them a part of one of the director’s previous films.
• Step 8: Raise a little extra Raise the money you need for your budget—and then some. Socking away an extra 15% in contingency funds—to help you out if disaster should strike—is a smart idea.
• TIP: If you’re positively loaded with funds, give a little more financial leeway to the director, but save most of it for emergencies and the possibility that the film will go over budget.
• Step 9: Count every penny Count every penny that the movie spends and that the movie makes. Write everything in your master ledger. This way, you’ll always know where you stand, and if the movie is still on budget.
• Step 10: Have a backup If and when you have to work away from the actual shoot, have someone you trust—not the director—keep track of everything.
• FACT: The 1963 film Cleopatra was originally given a budget of $2 million, and wound up costing $44 million— that’s over $300 million in current dollars.

You Will Need

• Some initial investment
• The names of potential investors
• The directoru2019s cooperation
• A financial ledger
• A ruthless attention to detail

Instructions

• Step 1: Decide on source material Decide if you want to write a script from scratch, or adapt some other work, like a novel.
• TIP: For adaptations, you’ll need to secure rights to anything that’s not in the public domain. Be prepared to pay dearly for the rights to popular books.
• Step 2: Learn script formatting Learn how to format a script. This is very important—many studios won’t even look at a script if it doesn’t follow industry standard rules for spacing and style.
• TIP: There are many scriptwriting programs that will automatically format what you’re writing, as well as adapt previously written scripts to the standard style.
• Step 3: Brainstorm Come up with some ideas for a script. Everyone has his or her own creative process, but most people find that sitting down at a computer without some ideas just leads to writer’s block.
• Step 4: Be realistic Be realistic. Don’t limit your imagination too much, but if you’re planning to film your own movie, remember that a sprawling war epic with battle scenes and period costumes is going to be difficult on a $50,000 budget.
• TIP: Follow the old adage, ‘Write about what you know.’ But beware of writing about yourself—most people are not nearly as interesting as they think they are!
• Step 5: Develop your characters Think about your characters before you start. Develop them deeply and then imagine them coming into conflict in interesting ways. Once writing, a good trick is to avoid having them say exactly what they’re thinking—how often does that happen in real life?
• Step 6: Write a first draft Once you’ve got some ideas, sit down and write a first draft. Don’t obsess over the details or try to edit at this point; just get the framework of the story in place.
• Step 7: Critique By yourself, or with the help of your director or others whose opinions you admire and trust, critique the draft. Only accept the unvarnished truth; you want a good script, not insincere compliments.
• TIP: Listening to others’ advice is tricky—if you don’t think something is a good idea, don’t do it. But at the same time, be tolerant of criticism and open to suggestions.
• Step 8: Write a second draft Write a second draft of the script, based on the feedback you’ve received and your own assessment of the first product.
• TIP: Because movies rely on spoken words, pay close attention to your dialogue. A conversation between two people might look fine on paper but sound stilted and fake when spoken aloud.
• Step 9: Critique it again Critique the second draft. Ideally, you or your partners will be more satisfied with this one, but if you’re not, don’t get discouraged; many scripts go through dozens of drafts.
• Step 10: Write a final draft When you’re happy with the most recent critiques and you think you’re close, make a final draft of the script. It’ll probably still change, but calling it ‘final’ will give you a sense of accomplishment.
• FACT: Sony spent $20 million on the story rights and $10 million on the screenplay for Spider-Man 2.

You Will Need

• A formatting and pagination guide
• A realistic sense of limitations
• Source material
• Script formatting software