7 Crucial Mistakes to Avoid When Making Your First Film
By Michael Schuette
Hey filmmakers! As a first-gen college graduate and self-taught filmmaker, I’ve kicked off a journey filled with both wins and losses. Today, I'm here to share a bit of wisdom: how NOT to make a film. These are seven mistakes that every new filmmaker should avoid to ensure their first venture behind the camera isn’t their last.
1. Skipping the Script
By Rawpixel.com | Adobe Stock
Picture this: you’ve got a camera, a bunch of enthusiastic friends ready to act, and a location. You think, “Why not just start shooting?” Here’s why: without a solid script, you’re building with no foundation. I have learned the hard way that improvisation has its limits. Crafting a detailed script isn’t just about dialogue; it’s about setting the blueprint for your vision. Lesson: A good film starts on paper, not on set.
2. Ignoring the Power of Sound
Most people think of creating a film as just capturing stunning visuals, so it’s pretty easy to forget about sound. But imagine watching your favorite movie on mute. Not quite the same, right? I underestimated sound once - all I got were scenes that felt flat, no matter how visually appealing they were. Tip: Invest in decent sound equipment. Your future self (and audience) will thank you.
Photography by By Xavier | Adobe Stock
3. Underestimating Lighting
Believe it or not, lighting can make or break your film. In one of my first projects, I thought natural sunlight was enough. Spoiler: it wasn’t. The result? Inconsistent lighting that distracted from the story. Takeaway: Learn the basics of lighting. It’s as crucial as your script and camera.
4. Forgetting the Audience
Who are you making this film for? In the excitement of bringing a vision to life, it’s easy to forget to consider the audience’s expectations and preferences - trust me, I’ve been there. A film is a dialogue with your viewers, not a monologue. Remember: Make your film accessible and engaging to your intended audience. It’s a conversation, not a speech.
5. Going Solo
Filmmaking is a collaborative art. Trying to wear all the hats – director, cameraperson, editor, sound engineer – is a path to burnout. I’ve been there, and trust me, it’s not pretty. Insight: Build a team. Even a small, dedicated crew can make a monumental difference.
6. Neglecting Post-Production
By terovesalainen | Adobe Stock
I once thought shooting was where filmmaking ended… I was wrong. Post-production is where your film truly comes to life. Rushing through editing, color grading, and sound mixing will only do your hard work a disservice. Advice: Give post-production the time and respect it deserves. It’s where good films become great!
7. Ignoring Feedback
Your film is your baby, I get it. However, feedback can be extremely valuable - especially if it comes from a knowledgeable source. My first film could have been much better had I listened to the constructive criticism I received. Wisdom: Embrace feedback. It’s not personal; it’s a tool for growth.
Making films is an adventure filled with learning curves and opportunities for growth. As a filmmaker, every mistake has been a lesson, guiding me closer to the stories I aspire to tell. If you’re just starting out, remember, every great filmmaker was once where you are now. Dodge these pitfalls, and who knows? Your next film might just be the talk of your city, or better yet, the world.
Edited by Maddie on May 22, 2024
