Tips for Zero Budget Short Filmmaking Nobody Will Tell You

If you are reading this, you must be someone who wants to make his first short film; however, an expensive budget stops you from making one. Yes, this is a common problem which first-time filmmakers face. Even when I started making short films, I had this problem. I have made five short films. All of them had zero budget.

In this article, I will share tips to make a short film without incurring any expenses. So, let’s start.

Look for Available Resources
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Whenever you plan to make a short film, try to keep the story simple. Look for resources in your room. Now weave the plot around that particular resource. For instance: a clock, a mirror can form the elements of your story. In my film, The Haunted Manuscript my laptop, and spectacle played a crucial role. The film won second place at The One Minute Film Festival 2020. Often we ignore the things that are available to us. Try to look for such things that will form a part of your short film.

Look for an Abandoned House

Go for this option, only if it is possible. If you get one, there’s nothing better than that. The beauty of getting an abandoned house is that you can set a story inside it, improve the interiors as per your script requirement. Choose one room, paint it, including home accessories, and design it according to your requirement. It will pay off when you see your film later. However, if there is an owner of the house, inform him that you will use it for your short film. You can return him by painting the room you are going to use.

Shoot during Festivals

Festive seasons are the best time to shoot. The abundant lights reduce the cost of shoot lights. During Diwali, Halloween, or Christmas, the available lights in the streets provide the required lighting necessary for your shot. The celebrations on the streets further add up to the overall ambiance. It makes your shot for a sequence more humane. This cost-effective method will save you money. All you need to do is place your characters at the right place, and half of your work gets done.

Use Free Film Editing Software
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Editing a film is a crucial part of filmmaking. There are many editing software available online for free. Download the one which you find easier and start editing. Look for copyright-free music for the background music of your film. Give credit wherever you upload your film. Editing software will complete the overall flavor of your film.

Use Cartons as Props

If there are any cartons available in your home, you can use them as props. Cover them with papers or any packing material you have. Use rice lights to decorate them to create objects. It will add an element of mystery to it. You can also take the help of paper cutouts to make objects. It makes the film look realistic.

The tips mentioned above will help you to make a film without any budget. At the same time, it will also give a perfect cinematic experience to your audience. I hope you make a great short film.