There are any number of reasons you might have a limited amount of time to create a short film. Time is one of the most valuable resources a filmmaker can have, so creating a short film in a crunch can be quite the challenge. However, filmmakers can overcome it, as several famous short films have been shot in a relatively short amount of time, showcasing the creativity and efficiency of their filmmakers.
Short Film Tips For Aspiring Filmmakers
Short films like Nine Lives (2005), Two Cars, One Night (2003), and The Lunch Date (1989) demonstrate that, with creativity, careful planning, and efficient execution, filmmakers can produce memorable short films within tight timeframes. They’re a great example of the versatility of the short film format.
Creating a compelling short film requires a thoughtful approach to storytelling and filmmaking. Here are some tips for crafting an impactful short movie. A few general productions do’s and don’ts include:
- Keep your productions simple.
- Limit the number of cast members.
- Limit the number of locations.
- Avoid big scenes with elaborate sets, costumes, and props.
- Stay away from period pieces, children, and animals—they are far too unpredictable. And be as professional as you can be.
- Although you may want to break the rules when it comes to content, there’s a good reason professional shoots are organized the way they are.
The better prepared you are, the more likely you will capture your vision.
Image via IMDB.
Simplify Your Story
When creating a story for a short film, devise a great idea that works in a few minutes. The key is to develop a story that can believably occur in a very short time, even ten minutes. A good logline can help you focus your idea and keep you from wandering too far off course. Your actual film’s running time doesn’t need to be that long, but you will be able to dramatize shorter events in a more grounded way.
Cast Carefully
Some actors may be more comfortable with ample rehearsal time, so make sure they know the time restrictions of your shoot. Try to shoot takes with alternate lines of dialogue., and if your cast is inventive, give them a chance to improvise. This can be especially effective in comedies.
When directing your actors, remember these tips:
- Let your actor know what their objective in each scene is.
- Make sure you and your actor are on the same page about their character and their motivations. If you disagree, take a few minutes to discuss, listen, and compromise.
- Be there for your actor. While some actors may prefer to do things their own way, most seek and thrive on direction, metaphorically speaking, even if it’s just pointing them the right way.
- Blocking is very important not just for your framing but for the intensity of the scene itself. Work with your actors to find the right blocking for each scene–what feels right for them and what looks best for the camera.
Communication is Key
When working on a film, make sure your schedules are detailed out to the minute. By having everyone’s contact information and communicating clearly where everyone is expected to be and when you can avoid unnecessary production delays. A few important things to do when putting together the schedule:
- Directions and expected travel times to the set.
- Organize your days so you can shoot several scenes in one day.
- If you have multiple locations, select the key location for the day and then find your other locations in the immediate area.
- Be efficient in your scheduling, and don’t be afraid to shoot out of order or out of sequence.
- Schedule your exteriors first—that way, if it rains, you have the option of delaying those scenes until the following day. And have a cover set (or interior) waiting to go so you can move inside and not lose a shooting day.
All of these steps can help prevent delays in filming.
Selecting Equipment
When selecting equipment for a low-budget short film, prioritize essentials based on your specific project needs. Opt for versatile and cost-effective options, such as entry-level DSLR or mirrorless cameras, which offer good image quality without breaking the bank. Consider utilizing natural light or affordable lighting kits, and explore budget-friendly audio solutions, like external microphones, to enhance overall production value within the constraints of your budget.
Additional tips include:
- Put together an inexpensive but effective equipment list.
- Test all the gear before you leave for the set. Once you’re on location, if something breaks and has to be replaced, you will lose valuable time.
- Don’t be afraid to be inventive. You may not have a professional dolly, but some of the most inventive directors develop novel solutions that make their shots more interesting.
- Ensure all batteries and other accessories are charged before the shoot, and spares are charged during the shoot.
Remember, with only three days to shoot, every minute counts, and every delay needs to be avoided at all costs.
Getting Creative with Cinematography
When it comes to cinematography, don’t be afraid of using natural lights if not everything is lit and bright. Often enough, beauty lies in the darkness. Silhouettes, high contrast, backlighting, and dramatic shadows can create a dynamic and powerful cinematographic look. When shooting a scene, start with your biggest shot first and then shoot all your closer shots looking in the same direction. Then turn around and, again, start with your biggest shot and work progressively closer.
Tapping into Sound
Sound, on the other hand, is another issue. Bad sound is often said to be the hallmark of amateur filmmaking. If your audience struggles to understand what your actors are saying, there won’t be much room for emotional involvement. So do everything you can, within your limitations, to get the best sound/dialogue recorded on the set.
Whoever said, “We’ll fix it in post” must have had tons of money, so erase those words from your vocabulary. Keep sound in mind before you even begin filming–make sure the locations you choose and even the story you tell will make your sound recording as easy as possible. If you can, have a good portion of your film dialogue-free, with scenes that can use music or non-sync sound in their stead, as sync sound will always take longer to shoot.
Digital Editing
In digital editing for a short film, leverage accessible software like DaVinci Resolve or HitFilm Express, which offer robust editing capabilities at no cost.
A few additional tips include:
- Prioritize the efficient organization of your footage, making the most of available editing tools for seamless transitions, color correction, and sound editing.
- Optimize your workflow by learning the fundamentals of the chosen editing software, ensuring a polished final product while keeping costs minimal.
- When working in post-production, remember it’s okay to be ruthless- do not be afraid to cut, even if it means undoing work hours.
- Always, always, always back up your project and footage in different locations.
- Save often so you don’t lose time due to a computer error.
If you need to brush up on your digital editing skills, consider seeking additional education.
Go Beyond Short Film Tips at NYFA
While these tips will get you started with a short film project, in the long term, building essential knowledge in the craft of filmmaking is vital. Ready to learn more about pursuing skills in film? Explore NYFA’s film school today!