How to Make a Short Film     

Anyone can now make a short film—but if you want to make a good film it will take time, preparation, and some expense. But if this is something you really want to do, putting the time in now will make all the difference later.

Do not trust what you see in the view finder.

1. Remember: Anyone can record an image, but that is not making a film.

2. Look for people who have the equipment below and see if you can borrow or rent it if you can't afford to buy it. See if they'll help you with your movie.

3. Learn the following features of your camera

Focus ring

White balance

Iris.

4. Get yourself a copy of the Filmmaker’s Handbook by Steven Ascher and Edward Pincus. Read it—they explain everything you will need to know.

5. Narrative or Documentary? Download a free script-writing program. A good one is Celtx.

If you are planning to make a fiction film, then it's narrative. Think of a basic story idea. You can get ideas for films from things you read in daily life, short stories, newspapers, etc.

6. Outline your idea. Write out your script, using Celtx; if you have never written a script before, pick up a book that explains script writing and character development, and that—along with the Celtx program—will be all you will need.

7. Write out your script:

8. Consider the following points when writing your script:

Character development

Plot development

Inciting incident

Character arc

9.Story-board each shot in the film. Decide what each shot in the movie is going to be. For example, wide shot, over the shoulder, tracking shot, close up, extreme close up, medium wide shot. crane shot, dolly shot, etc.

10. Decide what you need for each scene. This is called a breakdown sheet.

11. Determine the setting of the scene. Is it external(EXT) or internal(INT)?

12. Determine the equipment you are going to need.

13. Determine the actors and crew.

14. Determine what props, make-up costumes, etc., will be used.

15. Start casting for cast and crew for the movie.

For crew you are going to need as many people as possible, but at least the following

Camera Man

Director of photography

Sound recorder

Costume and makeup person.

Craft service

Someone who knows something about lighting

A PA

16. Provide food for your crew and expense money and a copy of the film.

17. Complete principle photography.

18. Edit the film; you do not need to use an expensive program at all. With the right skills, a free program that came with the computer can make stunning films. Do not think you need to use the most expensive program out there!

19. Show the film to friends and family and/or post it to YouTube. If you are serious about filmmaking, submit it to film festivals and send it to film agencies.

20. Have a good time!