How to make a short film with zero budget.?

Question by Manhattan: How to make a short film with zero budget.?
I am a high school student and I would like to make a 5 minute film. I would like to know some techniques that may help me, or a website I could go to. I have a digital camera and a tripod. That is it. I know that I can make a good short film, but all I need is some advice.

Best answer:

Answer by james
1. Choose your equipment, something that can record video. There are many choices. This process might take months or even years, but you have to keep looking. Make sure your video recorder works with your VCR or editing equipment.
2. Learn a few features, and review how your recording device works. Learn how to start and stop recording, fast forward, rewind, playback, and anything else you might need. Save the special effects for your second or third project.
3. Choose a subject — what you want to make a film about. Remember, you’ll need to complete the project. Think about who, what, and where you’ll shoot. Form a basic idea for a story and if you’re having trouble, read short stories for inspiration.
4. Type out a script. Make sure to develop your characters with different personalities; your movie won’t be interesting if everyone acts and talks the same.
5. Draw out a storyboard, illustrating the shots you plan to use. Don’t worry about following the storyboard perfectly. It’s just a good idea to get your thoughts on paper and a great way to see if you can communicate an idea “visually” rather than needing the actors to verbally communicate the concept. The viewer is watching first and listening second.
6. Find people who aren’t busy and are willing to work hard on your film. Provide food for your crew. They’ll appreciate it and be able to hang around longer.
7. Shoot your footage. If you want to highlight your pet, you can shoot video of your pet eating, sleeping and playing and perhaps put it to music.
8. Edit your film. Many cameras edit in limited ways and some have special effects. Learn how to “cut” pieces of your footage together and put music or speech over your video. Check your camera’s manual or use a software package like iMovie to make your final cuts.
9. One way is to use your VCR or DVD burner to make copies for friends and auditions. If your film is digital, you can also output your final edit to a readable format to send via email. Also if your film is in digital format you can upload to YouTube or another video sharing site. Check up with the website’s video formats to see if you can upload your movie.

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