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5 Things Every Filmmaker Should Know

Writer's picture: Qasim khan Productions Qasim khan Productions

Updated: Jan 22, 2021




Everyone involved in film making is aware of the fact that it can take forever to master it, it isn’t something you learn in 6 months, it filled with a lifetime of learning. The more work you do the more you get to learn. Nevertheless, there are certain things every filmmaker should know when embarking on the journey of entertainment.

Sound

Sound is more important than you think, it makes or breaks the final outcome of your product. You could have the most cinematic film but if the dialogues aren’t heard it will be a flop. Sound is not something that can be ignored when your audience watch your film, they will notice the sound even unconsciously. The audiences are more likely to tolerate bad video than bad audio.

Even if you are an independent filmmaker or just starting out, you have to invest in good sound equipment which includes a mic, recorder, boom pole and shock mount and of course a windscreen! Never underestimate the power of good audio.



Location


Your location is the heart of your film, it’s a way for you to communicate the story with your audience Every movie director will tell you the correct film location could make or break a project. Finding the right location is just as important as a good cast and script. Look for locations that compliment your story, that fit the mood you are trying to set.

One must keep in mind that no all locations are available for shooting, you have to get a permit to avoid any kind of trouble. Plus, if you do not plan to invest a lot in lighting equipment’s (since they are pricey) you have to make sure your location has a good source of lighting.

Pre-production

There is no such thing as being too prepared, you can never be too prepared when it comes to film making. Before you even think of starting your shooting, make sure you have everything checked, avoid any kind of problems rising on shoot day, you’ll be too occupied to deal with problems that could have been solved beforehand!

Pre-production is rather simple as long as you are organized, no matter what kind of project you are shooting pre-production determines eventually how successful it will be! Here is a certain thing to put down on your checklist

1) Fixed script

2) Fixed budget (and follow it strictly)

3) Breakdown the script

4) Complete the storyboard and shot list

5) Scout and secure the ideal locations (check permits)

6) Cast your actors and hire crew

7) Arrange equipment

Make sure you have all items on your checklist crossed before you shoot, it’s very important and can save you a lot of trouble!

Respect the budget


As a director, it is your responsibility to respect the budget you have, a carefully crafted budget will produce a roadmap for your film. The budget allows you to have better and more careful planning for your film. When you have expense involved for certain thing you can use for a limited amount of time than you are more likely to finish it in that time period.

The budget is really shaped by your choices as a filmmaker, with the need of locations, size and prominence of cast, stunts, and the effects needed both during and after principal photography. The budgeting is essential for a reason, so if you have one stick to it.

Be open to ideas

As a director, it is very important to let go of your ego, if your actors or crew members are giving you suggestion than be open to listening, show them you respect their input. Sometimes your crew/cast members see things from very different angles than you, your ideas may be coming from one point of view and may block your mind from seeing it from different angles. But your members will be able to see it from a different perspective!

For example, when you are filming a romantic or emotional scene, listen to your actors! Especially if you are an independent filmmaker and happen to work with newcomers let them do the scene from their point, they may need to start from a different point to reach your required point!

Today ends here, but your journey as a filmmaker is going to be a life long one. It’s a constant process of learning and expanding your knowledge. Be open to different ideas and welcome new things!

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