1. Write A Budget-Friendly Script.
- Keep your cast small, sets minimal, and locations limited
- Use practical visual effects and stunts
2. Secure Financing.
- Crowd-fund, or find independent investors willing to take risks on debut filmmakers.
- Try film grants and sponsorships.
3. Assemble A Minimal Crew.
- Get volunteers, film school students, and industry friends to work for low or no pay.
4. Lock Down Your Locations.
- Contact landowners, city governments, and businesses for permission to shoot on their property.
Production
5. Shoot Efficiently.
- Break the script into achievable daily shooting schedules.
- Use multiple cameras to capture wide shots and close-ups simultaneously.
6. Minimize Setup Times.
- Have actors and crew ready for next scene while current scene being filmed.
7. Work Long Days.
- Aim for 12 to 15-hour shoot days.
Post-Production
8. Edit Relentlessly.
- Keep scenes brief and move the story forward.
9. Keep Post-Production Costs Down.
- Consider color-correcting and adding visual effects yourself.
10. Release The Film Without Delay.
- Build anticipation with teaser trailers, and release date announcements.