In today's digital age, thousands and thousands of independent filmmakers are challenging Hollywood's elite, best-of-the-best film producers. A Gaffer's Perspective on Independent Filmmaking examines why so many first-time independent film productions are doomed to failure before the first day of principal photography ever begins. Learning what dooms a production is only half of the process; teaching successful practices and techniques, while revealing many of the tricks of the trade used by the big productions, is the other half. With examples of actual productions gone awry, combined with "should haves," this book is a "must have" for a successful filmmaking experience.

Your Complete Guide To (Independent) Filmmaking. An in-depth, no holds barred look at making movies from 'concept to delivery' in today's ever-evolving climate while breaking down the dos and don'ts of (independent) filmmaking. Learn invaluable industry secrets from top to bottom and discover the truth about independent film distribution as the lid is torn off the many myths surrounding sales agents and today's release platforms that are certain to open reader's eyes - and ruffle a few feathers!

Preparing independent or guerrilla filmmakers for the legal, financial, and organizational questions that can doom a project if unanswered, this guide demystifies issues such as developing a concept, founding a film company, obtaining financing, securing locations, casting, shooting, granting screen credits, distributing, exhibiting, and marketing a film. Updated to include digital marketing and distribution strategies through YouTube or webisodes, it also anticipates the problems generated by a blockbuster hit: sound tracks, merchandizing, and licensing. Six appendices provide sample contracts, copyright forms and circulars, Writer's Guild of America definitions for writing credits, and studio contact information.

Presents an introduction to the making of a film without film studio backing, covering such topics as developing the story, obtaining financing, directing, cinematography, location, and post-production tools such as editing and special effects.

HOW CAN YOU SUCCEED IN THE FILM INDUSTRY AS A PASSIONATE AFRICAN AMERICAN! Have you ever thought about pursuing your career in the film industry? Do you actually know what it takes to be a super-successful filmmaker? Have you ever wondered how your life would change if one day you make it to Hollywood? Now please, paint this Hollywood vision inside your head, imagine that. How sweet does is it feel? How bad do you want it? And I am not just talking about Hollywood. There are so many ways and movie areas where you can succeed as a filmmaker, Hollywood is just that super delicious cake which bite everyone wants to get… Unfortunately, for most filmmakers, this is a never achieved dream, a struggle dream they once wanted to attain but failed. And I am not going to tell you that it is going to be easy, that’s just not the way life works, and the film industry is no different – if you want huge success, it requires a lot of effort following the right directions. And if you are truly willing to strive for that fame and success, you came to the right place. Throughout this book, I will lay the foundation – the most important things you need to know about the film industry and how to step your foot into it – successfully and fast-track your journey towards that Super-Star Dream. Here are just a few things you’ll discover inside: · Do African Americans have an advantage in the Film Industry, or is it more difficult? · Is movie making for you? Discover the essential characteristics of future industry professional · Do you need film studies, and how can you start all on your own? · Can you start with no money? Find out if it is possible · Should you quit your job to start a film career? What are other options to stay financially secure while pursuing your dreams · 4 Major Tasks Of a Filmmaker – film producing, film making,… · How do you sell your movie scrip at a high price? · Much much more… And keep in mind that you don’t need to be a super-talent to start as long as you have a strong desire and are willing to put in the work needed. In this case, this is a book for you!

This comprehensive guide will teach you about the exciting new tools available to independent content creators. Gain invaluable knowledge about getting your project on streaming platforms like Netflix and iTunes, how to write, format, prepare and register a script, even where to find amazing resources that the major studios use for a fraction of the cost. And much more! Written by Tut Thomas, an award-winning writer and director, "The Last Guide to Independent Filmmaking: With No Budget" is designed for individuals new to the Entertainment industry and veterans looking for an easy to understand guide to content creation as the industry shifts into the age of artificial intelligence. With this book, you'll quickly be on your way to making your first, or your next great indie project.

The number of independent films produced each year has almost doubled in the past decade, yet only a fraction will succeed. If, like many filmmakers, you have no industry connections, little to no experience, and a low or ultra-low budget, this outsider’s guide will teach you what you need to know to produce a standout, high-quality film and get it into the right hands. Written by an entertainment lawyer and experienced director and producer, this handbook covers all the most essential business, legal, and practical aspects of producing on a low budget, including: Scripts Business plans Copyright issues Equity and non-equity financing Fund-raising Tax considerations Talent recruiting Scheduling Distribution Securities laws Film festivals And more Also discussed are the new crowd funding laws covered by the JOBS Act, making this book a must-read for every indie producer in today’s economy. If you want to produce a film that gets attention, pick up the book that is recommended or required reading at film, business, and law schools from UCLA to NYU. Whether you’re a recent film school graduate or simply a Hollywood outsider, Independent Film Producing will be like having a best friend who is an experienced, well-connected insider.