Self-Distribution: How Filmmakers Can Create a Career Enhancing Day Job

Filmmakers can cut out the middle man altogether and self-distribute their films themselves. Independent films can still be sold in major retail stores and video catalogs. Indie filmmakers who would like to go that route can read books that discuss how to navigate the world of mass-market distribution.

By reading material designed specifically for that purpose, filmmakers can learn how to contact buyers, obtain UPC codes and do the things necessary for placing an independent film on the shelf at Blockbuster or Tower Records. One good resource is the Movie Marketing Handbook. Dov S. Simmons also offers very helpful seminars through his web film school. These resources can help filmmakers sell their independent films.

For those who want to do it all on their own (or mostly), there are various paths that a filmmakers can take. Self-Distribution can become a great day job for independent filmmakers. Why continue to work at a clothing or electronics store if you have a completed film at home? It is a sad reality that many people believe that money cannot be generated from independent films. The truth is that filmmakers can obtain income through self-distribution. Many filmmakers have had success this way. This means that self-distribution can be profitable, if done properly.

Instead of waiting for other people to give them money, filmmakers can create their own jobs by self-distributing their own films. Self-Distribution is a job. Unless a film is picked up by a studio, many outsiders view filmmaking as a non-profiting hobby. However, filmmakers will do themselves a disservice by adopting the same attitude. Independent filmmakers can sell their completed films while working on the next production.

Self-distribution can be done by selling DVD copies of your film. There are millions of consumers who purchase movies on DVD. Filmmakers can take advantage of this popular medium of home video. DVDs can be sold at film festivals around the world. Film festivals offer a chance to sell your film directly to the people who have viewed it after a screening. DVDs can also be sold at events and flea markets. This can be done by researching various events that are held in your area.

Large events may be too expensive to participate as an exhibitor or vendor. However, small events have vending spaces that are reasonably priced. Fashion shows and events held by non-profit organizations are great opportunities for selling independent films on DVD. Filmmakers can also host parties to sell their films. You can also try to sponsor a party held by a local sorority or fraternity, to generate DVD sales. F

ilmmakers may want to consider becoming a street vendor. A table can be set up along a popular shopping area in your town. Most cities require a permit before doing so. Street vending can become a more established way to self-distribute your independent film on DVD. You can try to set up near other stands that sell other items like sandwiches or jewelry.

The internet is another outlet that can be used for self-distribution. A filmmaker can sell downloads of his or her film online. A website can be set up to give potential customers more information about the film. The website can also be used to direct people to where the film can be downloaded. Filmmakers can also use revenue generating websites like Revver, Eeefoof, Break.com and Metacafe to self-distribute their film. It is strongly recommended that these websites be used for short films only.

Most online viewers tend to favor shorter videos over longer ones. Many video websites will only accept videos that do not go over a specific file size. All websites have their own requirements. However, revenue generating websites are a great way for filmmakers to distribute short films. They also provide tools to help video creators share their videos on other websites.

Independent filmmakers can also self-distribute their films by going on tour. This is more than likely the most expensive route for self-distribution. However, it is another option to gain an audience and generate income for your independent film. Filmmakers can schedule their own theatrical tour and visit many cities, much like an indie rock band. It may be expensive to rent numerous movie theaters to show your film.

There are lots of alternative venues where independent films can be shown to the public. An independent film can be screened at hotels, galleries, restaurants and outdoors. Filmmakers can screen their films in a park during the summer. The summer season offers an opportunity to find creative ways to show a film to the public. Filmmakers should always be aware profiting from self-distribution is possible.