Making a Low Budget Film Look Cinematic — Low Budget Filmmaking Ep. 1

DIY Filmmaking — We look at how to get a low budget film off the ground in pre-production.

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Chapters:
00:00 - Intro to Low-Budget Filmmaking
00:49 - History and Definition
02:23 - Ch 1: Scripting
04:20 - Ch 2: Financing
09:01 - Ch 3: Hiring Crew
11:56 - Ch 4: Casting
15:28 - Takeaways

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LOW BUDGET FILMMAKING HACKS

Most movies that we see are expensive. Like, really expensive. If you don't have tens of millions of dollars lying around, making a feature film can feel out of reach. But in reality, making a movie on a small budget isn't impossible, and in fact has a long history stretching back to the advent of filmmaking. In this series, we're going to look at how to make a low budget movie that looks professional and can stand out among movie with many times its budget. Today's topic: pre-production.

LOW BUDGET FILMMAKING IDEAS

The foundation of any successful low-budget film lies in the script. To maximize your resources, it's usually best to write a story with a limited scope, focusing on a small number of characters and a handful of locations. Minimize special effects, elaborate set pieces, or large crowd scenes that can strain your budget. Write to your strengths. If you know you have access to an eye-popping location, include that location in the script. If you can animate, maybe include an animated sequence. Of course, above all else, prioritize story. In the end, that's all that matters.

FINANCING A LOW BUDGET FILM

Financing a low budget film often requires creative solutions. Traditional methods like securing private investors can be challenging but are worth exploring, especially if you can present a strong pitch and a realistic budget. Crowdfunding platforms like Kickstarter or Indiegogo are another option, allowing you to raise money from supporters while building an audience for your film.

NO BUDGET FILMMAKING CREW

When working on a tight budget, it’s essential to keep your crew small. Aim to hire multi-skilled individuals who can handle, and are will to take on, more than one role on set. Many independent filmmakers rely on friends or colleagues who are willing to work for reduced rates or as part of a passion project. While it’s tempting to cut corners, always prioritize safety and professionalism. Customize your crew for what you need.

CASTING FILMMAKING ON A BUDGET

For low-budget films, casting is tricky but massively impactful. If possible, try to attach a known actor, even in a minor role, as this can significantly boost your project’s visibility and marketability. If that’s not feasible, consider using non-actors or lesser-known talents who fit your characters perfectly. Hold auditions or look for local theater actors, as they often bring enthusiasm and flexibility to the project.

Next, you're ready to film. Stay tuned for our next episode for some budget hacks once the cameras are rolling.


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♬ SONGS USED:

"Monsters Theme" - John Hopkins
"I’m not Crazy" - Isak Olsson
"The Slough Pit of Creation" - Carter Burwell
"The Last Ride (The Rider)" - Nathan Halpern
"Solaris" - Makeup and Vanity Set
"Quantum IV" - Makeup and Vanity Set
"Mother" - Cornel Wilczek
"Guitar Composition" - Mike Schank
"Hardest Geometry problem in The World" - Mark Mothersbaugh
"Halloween Score" - John Carpenter
"Manny and Nellie’s Theme" - Justin Hurwitz
"Everything Everywhere All At Once" - Son Lux
"Dizzy" - Ariel Marx
"Diogenes" - Makeup and Vanity Set
"Danielle" - Ariel Marx
"Avatar Theme" - james Horner
"Aegus" - Makeup and Vanity Set
"Running Two" - Johnny Klimek, Reinhold Heil, Tom Tykwer
"The Swag" - Link Wray
"Get Out Theme" - Michael Abels

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