low budget short filmmaking (pt. 2)

“Reynolds” - Played by Drew “Andy Pants” Petersen

Cinematography practice, that’s been the theme for me lately. I’ve been shooting footage for a concept trailer for our next short film, and through that process, I’ve been free to just think solely about cinematography (instead of the story - for now). The story, as it stands, is the elephant in the room. The barrier to actually beginning the film itself. But it’s about 90% done, so I’m confident we are nearing the end (or the beginning?) of the actual filmmaking process. In fact, I could have the best (low budget) cinematography ever and it won’t matter unless I have a good story. That much I know.

Anyways, the #1 thing that’s been on my mind as of late isn’t the filmmaking process itself, but the idea of having a YouTube channel where I only talk about filmmaking. That’s a major point of contention for me when I see these YouTube channels that preach about “filmmaking” and “cinematic” and such. I’ll sometimes watch a video, and about halfway through realize “Oh this person just makes videos about making films, but doesn’t actually make the films”. Taking that one step further, look at all the courses (some snake oil, some not) that have “Filmmaking” in their name, and as part of their promise of what they will teach you. Let’s be honest, they’re videography courses. Nothing more.

At the risk of ranting too much, I’ll just say that my goal isn’t just to make videos about making films - and never actually make the films. My goal, and I full realize I need to stay on the DIY low/no budget path, is to chip away at making short narrative films…little by little. So that might mean a couple weeks of working on the beat sheet and/or screenplay. That might mean a couple weeks of practicing cinematography for a concept trailer (and eventual trailer trailer). What it doesn’t mean is having absolutely 0 films to my name and calling myself a filmmaker. Hell that’s why I always refer to myself as an aspiring filmmaker. I’ve done a short film, some mini docs, and have a longer doc nearing completion…so I’m confident I’m on the right path.

Anyways, while yes, this video (below) is about low/no budget “filmmaking”…it’s also just a way of showing where I’m at in the process. Which is currently merely having fun practicing cinematography for the trailer and eventual film.

Enjoy!

Also, if you’re feeling zesty, check out my first real short film (a bit long for a short film, admittedly) below: