Download a more detailed step by step guide to film-making
PRE-PRODUCTION
1. Decide on a theme / topic for your film
All films tell a story of some kind. What's your film's story? Make sure your film's story and message is clear and that it has a beginning, middle and end. Click here for a guide to styles of film-making.
2. Thorough research
Decide what your story is, where you're filming, and who your contributors will be - who will you interview?
3. Storyboards
Think of the storyboard as a comic strip. It's a template for your film. Click here for a story board and shot list template.
4. Shot list
This goes with the storyboard, and is a list of all the shots that you need to film.
5. The legal stuff
You may need permission to film at your desired location, you will need permission to film actors or interviewees and you will need a license for any music used. Click to download more information and sample release forms.
6. Health and Safety
Think about the dangers that your shoot might involve and work to manage or eliminate them. A risk assessment of your production is essential. Download a blank risk assessment form.
Download some more tips for pre-production
PRODUCTION
1. Don't overshoot
To avoid this plan your shots carefully. Download examples of camera angles to create different moods.
2. Lighting
If we can't see it we won't watch it!
3. Sound
If we can't hear it we won't watch it!
4. Don't be afraid to stop.
If the sound isn't right or something is going wrong with the shot don't be afraid to stop.
5. It's all about teamwork
Working well as a team is essential. Diva doesn't work!
POST PRODUCTION
1. Editing
It is useful to have your story board and shot list for this process. Clicke here for a step by step guide to imovie. Click here for a basic guide to Final Cut Pro
2. Distribution.
Film competitions, organising a screening, uploading to YouTube, vimeo etc are all ways to get your film seen.