6 Steps to Prepare for Shooting an Amateur Movie for Online Use

Nowadays, shooting an amateur movie doesn't necessarily require expensive equipment. In fact, some even make good ones using only mobile phone cameras. As amateur movies are often shown on video sites like Youtube, TV and computer screens, and portable gadgets like MP4 players and iPads, small- and medium-resolution cameras become practical choices for shooting. Editing programs from user-friendly to professional ones are usually available for free or for purchase. Generally, these programs not only cut and splice shots, they also enhance the video's overall look.

1. Finalize your concept for a short movie. Given the nature of online video watching, your movie should not be too long and its video file must not be too big. For a concept, you must be able to make one anywhere from one to three sentences. If you can't describe your movie in a few sentences, then you don't have a good understanding of what you want to do.

Have a clear idea of the movie genre and format to use for the movie. You can make a documentary or a fictional narrative. It can be under any genre like action, comedy, drama, horror, or suspense. You may want to create a spoof, mockumentary, or any sort of viral video that can have a good impact to your target audience.

2. Make a script, sequence outline, or shotlist based on your concept to help guide you when shooting your online movie. The document you need mainly depends on the movie format and story you have. Ideally, you need a script for a narrative movie or a sequence outline for a documentary or any production that requires more spontaneous shooting. For a music video, a shotlist describing the scenes you want to create is often used. It is also preferable to make a storyboard, shooting schedule, and other production documents that can organize the shoot.

3. Search for your shooting location(s). If you have more than one location, prioritize getting those that are near each other. Another advantage when using an amateur camera is that you can typically get away with the formal shooting and permit requirements, which are imposed on commercial productions. However, always ask permission when shooting in private properties.

4. Hire your actors and crew, then conduct pre-production meetings with them prior to the shoot. Unlike in professional movie work, these people can simply be a family member or friend or an actual film worker. Again, this depends on the type of project you are doing.

Make sure you have a clear discussion of whether you will be shooting a movie for fun or you need to pay people working with you. The pay may be in cash or in kind. It can be an allowance, honorarium, or an actual talent fee that may or may not be on par with industry standards. The important thing is you have a confirmed agreement with these people.

5. Finalize your technical and art requirements. Technical requirements include your camera, light, and sound equipment -- whichever ones you need for your movie. Meanwhile, art requirements refer to the props, sets, makeup, and other similar materials you need during the shoot.

6. Schedule your shoot based on the availability of your team, location, and equipment. At the same time, prepare the production budget you need for the food during the shoot, payments for people, and other petty expenses.

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