Film Tips

1. A good film starts with a good story.

2. Coverage. Take plenty of takes of a shot to get good coverage.

3. ACCEPT, or at least consider, constructive, well intended criticism.

4. It is okay to not have all the answers.

5. Be creative. If you think it...it can be shot.

6. Experiment with shot angles. Come up with some totally new angles on your own.

7. Sure you might be able to "fix it in post" but an effective pre-production will save you time, money and headaches.

8. Take time with casting. Great casting will solve a lot of problems for you before you even begin shooting.

9. Pay attention to continuity. There is nothing worse than bad continuity. People do scout for continuity glitches and you don.t want to let them have a field day with your film.

10. Don't overlook lighting. If you can't see what you're shooting, chances are neither will your audience. The more you know about lighting, the better your film will be.

11. To be a good director, learn all you can about the subject you are shooting. Talk to other people, read books, browse the internet, study photographs or observe other people living parts of the story you intend to film.

12. Check and double-check all your equipment the day BEFORE you start your film shoot.

13. Be open to other's ideas (especially in pre-production) and be open to change; don.t set yourself on one idea. The more ideas, the better.

14. Be on budget! If you need to spend money to produce your film, don't dig yourself into a hole! Remember, saving production money is a virtue, not a sin!

15. Make sure your lens and camera is clean. Rehearse with your actors as much as possible.

16. The difference between a good film and a great film is often the teamwork behind it.

17. Above all else...Have Fun!