At Filmmaking Stuff, we are dedicated to providing filmmaking articles related to production, production equipment (cameras, lighting, audio), film scheduling, budgeting, casting and directing. From time to time, we will also include articles from guest filmmakers. We have provided the following ideas and filmmaking tips so that you can take action and make your movie.
When I was first starting my filmmaking career, I thought long and hard about the prospects of film school. At the time, I figured a degree from one of the top film schools would increase my odds of garnering success. Now, after having worked in the game for awhile, I can honestly tell you that very few people, if any, have asked me where I went to film school.
Christopher Nolan’s first film, the 1998 picture Following, was shot on black and white 16mm film. To conserve money on expensive film stock, …
For years I’ve seen a disturbing trend in the true indie film community that hasn’t much abated—true of course meaning that you made …
My fascination with video began in college, where my personal style led me to abstract, weird, 3D-animated projects that were more computer-oriented than …
So you want to produce an independent movie? Great. I think this is the best time in history to finally make your indie movie.
There is just something totally magical about the creative process. When you’re making a movie, it isn’t about the outcome. I mean, yes, you want to do great work. And you want people to enjoy your show. But in the process, like the night before the first day of production – when you stare at your ceiling until 4AM, too excited to sleep. Wondering if you have enough equipment. Wondering if you’re crazy for choosing such a creative path in life. Dreaming of first film festival success, then a career in Hollywood when people ask you to work, instead of you asking for work… I mean, all of these thoughts flow through your mind.
Early in my filmmaking career, I made a lot of mistakes – Many of these mistakes are attributable to a real lack of advice from people with experience. The following video offers good advice to new filmmakers who are looking for guidance. (And for those of us filmmakers who have produced a few features – this is still great advice!)
For filmmakers interested in making a feature documentary, advancements in production technology has created the golden age. Equipped with a camera, it’s never …
If you’re an ambitious writer, I’m going to tell you a secret. There is no better feeling in the world than the day you stop sending query letters and instead, you start producing your own work. For years and years, you have dreamed about seeing your work on the big screen. You know you’re good. So why ask for permission?
Like it or not, many social networking sites run the risk of going out of vogue. So from day one, you will want to migrate your fans off the social networking sites and get them into your own email, mailing list…
The size of your film crew can have a huge impact on your budget and logistics. Even if you’re not paying your crew, …
As a filmmaker, establishing a mentor is invaluable. Without my mentor, I would have never gone to NYC, would have never made a movie and would have never fell on my financial face—and recovered. Consequently, I would have never made the move to California, produced features or written these words.
In this filmmaking podcast, author and Crowdfunding expert John T. Trigonis answers your most pressing questions about Crowdfunding For Filmmakers.
In this article, Hollywood film producer Jason Brubaker shares his thoughts on the pros and cons of film school for aspiring filmmakers currently weighing the options between traditional film school (and the price tag) or one of the many hands-on filmmaking education alternatives…
I had the good fortune of attending the Los Angeles Film Festival premiere of “Manson Family Vacation.” This quirky indie film stars Jay …
Ever wonder when you should upgrade your digital camera? A reader recently wrote in with a digital camera question related to full frame …
Most filmmaking tech geeks (including me) get excited about new cameras without giving much thought to lenses. But before the light of our …
One of the first things people ask when they decide to start filmmaking is this: What indie film gear should I get? My …
In this filmmaking article, filmmaker Kevin O’Brien shares his tactics on how to shoot a pitch trailer so you can raise money for your movie.
When money is tight, finding filmmaking locations can be overwhelmingly expensive. Assuming this describes you, I am sure you don’t want to go …
Sunshine Superman is the most exhilarating documentary that you will see this summer. Released domestically by Magnolia Pictures, the movie focuses on Carl …
As an alternative to desktop-based software programs, there are quite a few Internet-based tools gaining popularity. One of the latest programs to enter the scene is called LightSPEED eps. In addition to being an awesome script breakdown and scheduling program, LightSPEED eps allows you to centralize your production information and provide secure access from your computer, wireless device, from anywhere in the world…
In this screenwriting article, Michael Head shares his thoughts on how Celtx screenwriting software helps you from first draft to your last shot.
In this article media mogul Phil Cooke discusses the importance of branding for filmmakers. Phil Cooke is a branding and marketing guru.
In this filmmaking article, LA Producer Jason Brubaker shares ideas on what to do when it’s time to make a movie.
In this filmmaking article, Jason Brubaker explores the differences between the popular film scheduling and budgeting software.
Looking for a great camera support system? Check out the Walimex Pro Aptaris System. It’s an amazing little support system that is great for beginning and veteran filmmakers alike.
What filmmaker gear are dreaming about? For the next few minutes, imagine you magically received a $1000 dollar gift card from Amazon. The only rule is, you have one hour to spend the money. And you can only buy filmmaking gear…
One problem with DSLR filmmaking is most DSLRs have tiny screens. In this filmmaking article, Michael Head shares thoughts on the SmallHD Sidefinder 502.
In this filmmaking interview, filmmaker Mayuran Tiruchelvam talks about how he made The Girl is in Trouble.