Principles of Filmmaking

The filmmaking process is generally divided into three specific segments: pre-production, production, and post-production. The guides below contain a plethora of information on the principles of each.

“You told me I have a plethora, and I just would like to know if you know what a plethora is.” – Guapo, from The Three Amigos

Pre-production Guide

Pre-production includes everything required to plan the film and any arrangements that need to be made prior to firing up the camera(s). From visiting locations and getting permission from the owners to use the facility or land if necessary, to script-writing, to storyboarding, planning is an essential part of the filmmaking process.

The following pages will help you with everything you need to consider in the pre-production phase of your project.

Writing A Script
How to write a good script, find your characters’ voices, and format it correctly.

Planning and Storyboarding
It can be very helpful to your crew if you have solid technical plans for them to work from.

Filming Locations
All about finding the right location and securing permission to use it.

Production Guide

On location, production includes setup, teardown, and everything that happens in between. From the moment the cameras start rolling, your set should be well-lit, your mics placed properly, and your camera handled expertly.

Basic Camera Technique
Learn how to hold, operate, and move your camera with fluidity and grace.

Scene Lighting
Simple ways to effectively light your set or location.

Audio Recording
How to record sound in the field.

5 Tips For Framing Your Shots
Guidelines for making sure your framing is the best it can be.

Post-Production Guide

After principal filming has been completed, you need to take the raw footage and turn it into a film. This can be the most time-consuming part of the filmmaking process outside of film schools, but there’s lots of knowledge here that will make it easier on you.

Workstations
Turning your computer into an editing bay.

Capturing Video Footage
Transferring video from camera to computer.

Digital Video Editing
An overview of the process of using computers to edit footage.

Non-Linear Editing Tutorial
Common editing interfaces and how to find your way around in them.

Making Video Look Like Film
How you can get that magical film look from plain old video.