Notes

1. Start with a question
Ask yourself, what kind of film do I want to make? You can choose from one of the dozens of movie genres, or filmmaking styles such as Film Noir, Cinéma Vérité, or Dogme 95. Whichever direction you decide to go, just remember to make sure you can actually do it. It's nice to dream of a big-budget sci-fi epic but few of us would be able to realize that dream.

Making a short film begins with organization and preparation. The bigger the scale of your production, the more obstacles you're likely to run into. Make sure to plan for road-bumps accordingly.

Your short film doesn’t have to be a big production. If this is your first time making a short, then you’re going to want to keep things as simple as possible. Just keep in mind that our rules for how to make a short film apply to productions of all sizes.






2. Develop a concept
Every story starts with a concept. Don’t limit yourself at this stage of production — dream up the story you want to make. Brainstorm short film ideas, watch some of the best short films for inspiration, and see what sticks.

Filmmaking is an art-form of endless possibilities, so you don’t want to start the process by telling yourself that what you want to make is impossible.

It may end up being impossible, but the most important thing at this step is to try your best to conceptualize what you want to see. Also, you’re going to want to set up a production calendar so that you can stick to a timeline.

3. Write a script
There’s a wide variety of ways to tackle your script. Here are some additional tips on writing a short film. First, start by downloading StudioBinder’s screenwriting software. If you’re not familiar with the industry formatting guidelines, check out the video below.

4. Make a script breakdown
Once you’re satisfied with your script, you’re going to want to do a script breakdown. This will help organize the story of your film into a practical production. If you’ve never done a script breakdown before, don’t worry, this video will explain what you need to know to get started



5. Draw storyboards
Now it’s time to visualize your film. Download StudioBinder’s storyboard creator software to get started. If you’re not a good artist, don’t worry, neither am I. The video below will show you everything you need to know to get the vision out of your brain and onto the page.


6. Finalize your scope
This is the stage in which you will have to start considering the realistic scope of your production. Don’t be afraid though, it’s just a matter of finding the best option. A lot depends on your budget, but there are five essential things you’re going to need regardless


7. Show up to set prepared
Once you’ve gotten your cast and crew together, you’re going to want to make sure you have a clear line of communication. Try using our film crew management software or setting up a work group chat. You'll want to create call sheets to keep everyone organized.

After you get that set up, there are just two more things you need to do: lay out your filming schedule and finalize your shot list. Check out the video below to see how to make a shot list for a modern production.


8. Always have your shot list
You’re finally here, the first day of shooting. Countless weeks of preparation have led to this moment. The most important thing to do is… enjoy yourself!

Remember, we make films because we love cinema. Take your job as director seriously, but don’t get too stressed out. Some things will be out of your control, i.e, weather, sick cast and crew, etc.

But that’s okay, nothing great comes easy.


9. Review footage and audio
Throughout your shoot, make sure to check off your shot list. You’ll be thanking yourself in post for doing your due diligence on set. This often includes reviewing dailies as the production progresses.

Also, review your shots, and make sure your audio is clear. It may be necessary to record ADR and/or Foley sound, or turn to the free sound effects online to really polish the audio.




10. Reorganize everything
You’ve gotten all your footage and now you’re ready to start editing. Import all the video and audio into your editing software and get started.

If you’re not experienced in editing, read up on the post production process and Final Cut Pro vs. Adobe Premiere Pro. If you’ve got the money to hire a professional editor, you can always do that as well.

There are dozens of videos on StudioBinder’s YouTube channel that will help you learn how to edit. This next video shows you how to get creative with match cuts and other editing transitions.

11. Last-Minute Check and Formatting
After your short has gone through a bunch of edits and you think it’s ready for an export, remember to check for these four things:

Make sure the picture is bright enough
Make sure the audio has been cleaned up
Look for frame inserts
Don’t forget credits

If everything looks good, export in the format of your choice.

HOW DO YOU MAKE A SHORT FILM?



12. Celebrate your work
You did it! You completed a short film. Get your cast and crew together, call some friends over, and watch that movie!

It may not seem like a huge accomplishment, but just think about how much work you put in. Through the process, you’ve become a better filmmaker.

If you think your short is competition worthy, consider submitting to a film festival. You don’t need to take your short film to Sundance or Cannes either, there are thousands of smaller festivals for up-and-coming filmmakers.

UP NEXT
“Making It” Season One
If you’re looking for more information on how to make a short film, then you have to watch our series “Making It.” Over six episodes, we show you the pre-production process of how to make a short film. Everything we talked about in this article is delved into in further detail in the series.

Up Next: StudioBinder’s ‘Making It’ →
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