Preproduction

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  The knowledge necessary to create films is easily found online.Photodisc/Photodisc/Getty Images
  
  Watch online videos to learn the basic skills of movie-making. Vimeo's Film School is completely free, with instruction for all phases of film production that include: Script writing, direction, cinematography, affordable do-it-yourself equipment, creating special effects and more.
  
  
• 2
  A screenplay is a narrative story, and the audio-visual blueprint for film projects.Vince Bucci/Getty Images Entertainment/Getty Images
  
  Acquire or write an original screenplay. Don't use scripts adapted from other works; obtaining the rights can be costly. If writing your own, use the screenwriting tools in Celtx. Introduce the story and characters within the first 10 pages, as one page equals one minute on the screen. Limit the scene locations to places you already know you can use for free. Perform multiple rewrites to reduce words in action and dialogue as the actors shouldn't say what can be seen.
  
  
• 3). Storyboard every camera angle of every scene. Celtx software can transfer the screenplay into the "Storyboard" feature to plan scenes with ready-made images, previewed as an animation. Or, draw freehand on paper. Use rough stick figures to show action and camera angles, while arrows can represent camera moves.
  
  
• 4). Write down the filming schedule. This can be done within Celtx. Simply plan the number of days for the project including set and prop construction. Don't pinpoint exact calendar days for the shooting schedule until after actors and crew members have been selected.
  
  
• 5). Download the "Film Budget" Excel template at DependentFilms.net. This online resource for filmmakers provides an easy-to-fill-out budget. Once the screenplay and basic shooting schedule are in hand, go through every scene and calculate the cost of items seen on film and the things needed until final completion of the film.
  
  

Filming the Flick

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  Hand-held DV cameras can be used, but should be mounted on equipment to remain steady.Digital Vision/Photodisc/Getty Images
  
  Film the scenes. If using animation software to create the scenes, either because it's better for the story, or it's a less expensive alternative to filming, skip to the "Post Production" section. Two different animation programs are listed in the Resources section below that do not require frame-by-frame drawing and both have a lot of presets to start quickly.
  
  
• 2). Rename all video files to match the numbering of the shots used in the screenplay. Do this at the time of shooting to maintain organization and continuity.
  
  
• 3). Follow the schedule. Resist the temptation to do a lot more while the camera is in hand. Additional shots can add to the expense and set the project behind schedule, further increasing expenses.
  
  
• 4). Clean the filming area. Never leave behind a mess or damage on another person's property, and put everything back as it was found. Assign somebody to this duty while planning the production.
  
  

Post Production

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  Editing software allows for manipulation of video files without destroying the originals.Ryan McVay/Photodisc/Getty Images
  
  Edit the film, video or animation segments. Windows Movie Maker is a better than basic editor, or download Lightworks, a free professional editing software. With the screenplay in hand, piece the movie together. Add the opening and ending credits. Use transitions between scenes for better visual flow. When needed, layer special effects and graphics over the film. Download affordable effects such as explosions and fire from VideoHive, for Lightworks or other editors with the Adobe After Effects bridge or plug-in.
  
  
• 2). Add the sound effects, otherwise known as Foley. The art of Foley is recreating the sounds not picked up by audio equipment. Sounds of footsteps, door hinges and papers turning make the film "feel" more real. Download any needed sounds (free) from Sound Jay for free. Drop each into an audio track of the editing software at key moments in the film.
  
  
• 3). Add the soundtrack to an audio track in the editing software. Underlying music is a must for any film project, but it's also extremely expensive. For those who are not musicians, soundtracks can be created using free software like Jokosher by adding instrumental sound clips. Or, search for songs and instrumentals at Jamendo under the "Attribute" Creative Commons licensing, where artists agree to the use if they'll receive the credit. "Attribute" licensing allows for alterations of the music, which means cutting them apart to fit film editing needs. Under this licensing a filmmaker can get a copyright on the finished film. (Reference 6)