Reasons Why Filmmakers Need Still Cameras

Publicity
Independent filmmakers can always benefit from having still photos taken to represent a film. Photos are essential tools for many publicity purposes including film festival programs, websites and media outlets. Many newspapers and magazines prefer to have images of the films that they write about. Filmmakers who are seeking distribution must have production stills to give to a distributor. This is one reason why filmmakers need still cameras.

Some film festivals also require filmmakers to submit a wide range of production stills. These items may include photos of the cast, principal crew members and images from key scenes in a movie. It is evident that filmmakers should own a still camera for these purposes. Photographers may be used to take publicity images on some independent film productions.

Volunteers may also offer their time to take the necessary photos. However, filmmakers should always have their own still cameras. This will enable any independent filmmaker to take publicity photos on his or her own. Some filmmakers may take on the role of photographer during production. It does not matter how publicity photos are taken. However, filmmakers are always responsible for making sure that they have them.

Continuity
One of the worse things that critics experience is a film that is edited poorly or is not in sync. It gives off the impression that a filmmaker did not plan to shoot the scene properly. Independent films that do not exhibit proper continuity can also reveal an unskilled filmmaker. Photos can be taken during pre-production while each scene is planned. They can also be taken during production as the cast and crew rehearse the scenes.

This will help to maintain the continuity throughout an independent film. It is another reason why filmmakers need still cameras. Continuity is one thing that the filmmaker or director of photography will have to pay attention to. In this case, professional photographers are not needed. Continuity photos are taken for mere reference.

Location Assessment
Photos can be used to examine the locations where an independent film is going to be shot. This is especially vital for productions that are shooting in other cities and towns. It would not be wise to ship cast and crew members to another city only to find out that a particular location is bad for the film. Filmmakers can save a lot of time and money by taking photos of various locations before going into production.