1. What exactly is a low budget for a film? A low budget production is generally considered to cost anywhere between the range of $10,000, on up to $1,000,000. There are so many variables that determine the final cost. The important ones are; How long will the film be? What are the intended uses for the film? Which format (film, video) will be used? How many actors, how many locations and what size crew will be used? “Let’s Make Our Movie” was born in order to go even below this range.
2. Where is the money spent in producing a film? A typical low budget video production can be broken down like this:
Script: script writing, research time, preparing shot lists and storyboard $2,250
Talent & crew: Actors, technicians, production assistants $5,000
Director/Producer: office work, location shooting, assisting editing $5,500
Voiceover, Narration $500
Camera Operator and Director of Photography $3,000
Lighting and sound technicians $1,600
Editing $5,000
Music rights $300
Tapestock, supplies $150
Travel expenses, meals $500
TOTAL$23,800
“Let’s Make Our Movie” saves money by eliminating and combining jobs.
3. What are the steps in producing a film? Depending on the scope of a project, the steps vary, but here is a sample outline.
4. Why should we hire a production company rather than do it ourselves? There are cases when it would be advisable to try it yourself, if you have all the tools necessary and the knowledge to use them correctly. I can make an easy comparison to a construction project. Many people are capable of tackling small remodels on their home for instance and are able to do a good job. In order to have saved money on the project the tools that were necessary were either already owned by them or were rather inexpensive. This is not true in film or video production. Since a general contractor knows the business and is engaged every day in the field of construction, he is more aware of the new tools and materials available for the job. He is more than likely able to supply better options for any subcontractors and will give the job professional touches. In other words, I’m saying that there is no substitution for experience, especially when making a film. Anyone can do it, but not everyone can do it well.
Movie Making Tools We have a published a “Dummies Guide to Movie Making” that can be used in the field on location or in preparation of your movie making venture. It is an informative and instructive tool written to guide and assist you in producing your film. Read more and buy the book.