Show Don't Tell: Micro-budget Filmmaking

In this episode, I am joined by filmmaker Sripal Sama, who turned his engineering background into an advantage when crafting his debut feature How's That for Monday?While holding down his day job as an IT security engineer, Sripal managed to write, direct, and produce a compelling thriller for just $65,000 - and secured theatrical distribution in both the US and India. Our discussion dives deep into his filmmaking approach and distribution journey.Topics covered include:How Sripal benefitted from his background outside the film industryShooting a 68-page script in 16.5 days across 5 key locationsCreative approaches to minimal coverage that still tell a compelling storyNavigating theatrical releases in two countries without a major marketing budgetReaching 50% budget recoupment through strategic platform selectionDrawing inspiration from both American indie cinema and Indian filmmaking techniquesLinks from the show:Sripal Sama - TwitterSripal Sama -  InstagramSripal Sama - EmailSign up for my newsletter for ex

Today I am joined by film critic turned filmmaker Jean-Baptiste Herment, here to talk about his DIY feature film Épidermique. Throughout the episode we discuss: How Jean-Baptiste produced the feature film with no crewBenefits of spreading out the production schedule over a yearDrawing inspiration from Italian cinema, Robert Rodriguez and beyondThe benefits of shooting monochrome on a low budgetUsing 4 - 5 different cameras and matching them in postThe merits of film festivals vs. online self-distributionMuch more!Links from the show: Épidermique - Instagram Akaba Media - Vimeo Akaba Media - YouYubeSign up for my newsletter for exclusive filmmaking insight each Sunday.

Today I am joined by acclaimed documentary filmmaker Roger Nygard, who you might know from films like Trekkies, Suckers, and The Truth About Marriage. Throughout our discussion, we unpack Roger’s winning formula for making and selling documentary films. Topics covered include: Why $100,000 is the magic number as a starting point for your budgetThe realities of recouping your costs, and what to expect from salesHow to generate interest from multiple buyers to up your minimum guaranteeThe importance of theme from a creative and business perspectiveApplying traditional storytelling principles to challenging topicsBest practices for getting started making your next docLinks from the show:Roger Nygard - Website The Documentarian - BookSign up for my newsletter for exclusive filmmaking insight each Sunday.

In this episode, I am joined by filmmaker Mark Mc Auley to discuss the creative process behind his feature film aWake, which was shot in a single day!The discussion covers his entire creative workflow, philosophical approach to filmmaking, production tactics, and loads more. Some of the topics covered include: Adapting a short film into to a featureUsing single takes to produce a feature in one dayElevating “stage play” ideas with a cinematic treatmentThe importance of setting rules for your productionHow to build your own filmmaking modelCultivating resilience for long term successCreating buzz and navigating festivalsLinks from the show:Awake - Film WebsiteMark Mc Auley - WebsiteMark Mc Auley - XMark Mc Auley - InstagramSign up for my newsletter for exclusive filmmaking insight each Sunday.

This episode is part 2 in the no-budget cinematography series, where we explore methods and tactics for achieving strong visuals with limited means.Topics covered include: The 33% rule for shooting coverage5 ideal coverage methods for no-budget productionsShooting scenes in a single take (while avoiding common mistakes)Alternate methods to traditional “film school” coverageHow the “scene split” technique can improve quality and save timeMuch more!These lessons offer a glimpse into my upcoming filmmaking course No-Budget Cinematography Blueprint, which will be released next week.As a listener, you can save 50% when you pre-order the course now!Simply use code: SDT50 at checkout here.

Today I am thrilled to be joined by the amazingly talented Jim Cummings, who you know as the Sundance winning writer / director / actor behind films like Thunder Road, The Wolf Of Snow Hollow, and The Beta Test. Jim recently released a brand new short film titled Is Now A Good Time, which we discuss at length throughout the podcast. The conversation spans Jim’s filmmaking journey post-Thunder Road, his creative process for developing ideas, and tactics for filmmakers looking to improve their craft. Jim also shares a sneak peek at his upcoming television series, thoughts on the future of Hollywood, and much more!Links from the show:Is Now A Good Time - Short FilmJim Cummings - InstagramJim Cummings - XSign up for my newsletter for exclusive filmmaking insight each Sunday.

Today we take a deep dive into the world of no-budget cinematography, looking at methods and workflows for achieving better results within limited means. The full episode covers: The 3 “no’s” of no-budget cinematographyWorkflow differences on a no-budget productionAvoiding common pitfalls that can kill production valueLighting setups, blocking, framing, and actor placementUsing day-for-night as a tool for both interiors and exteriorsMuch more!These lessons offer a glimpse into my upcoming filmmaking course No-Budget Cinematography Blueprint, which will be released later this month.As a listener, you can save 50% when you pre-order the course now!Simply use code: SDT50 at checkout here.Sign up for my newsletter for exclusive filmmaking insight each Sunday.

Today I am joined by returning guest Whitney Ingram to talk all about the world of freelance filmmaking.After a stint working in-house as a content creator, Whitney recently re-entered the freelance world and is already finding success landing projects that align with her creative goals. Throughout the episode we explore the benefits (and challenges) of going freelance full time, and how Whitney strikes a balance between corporate gigs and passion projects.Whitney also shares her recent experience directing and DP'ing a short film, leveraging social media as a career tool, and strategies for landing paid work.Links from the show:Whitney Ingram - InstagramWhitney Ingram - YouTubeSign up for my newsletter for exclusive filmmaking insight each Sunday.

In this episode, we explore the age old issue of imposter syndrome and look at ways to eliminate self-doubt as a filmmaker. From comparing yourself to others to fear of failure - the episode is packed with strategies to combat negativity.Topics covered include:The difference between healthy self-criticism and debilitating doubtWhy you should avoid sharing your film ideas prematurelyThe dangers of setting arbitrary deadlines for "making it" in the industryHow to handle criticism from non-filmmakersWhy making films repeatadly is the best way to overcome self doubtAll of this and much more on today's show.Sign up for my newsletter for exclusive filmmaking insight each Sunday.

In this episode, I am joined by writer, producer and actor Jonathon M. Smith - who originally connected with me through my filmmaking community (The Backlot). Not long after joining the community, Jonathon went on to make his debut feature film Broken City, lock in distribution, and launch an impressive film marketing event in his hometown. Throughout the interview, Jonathon sheds light on his philosophy on filmmaking, the challenges of fundraising, and his decision to shoot a low-budget film in a single location.He also speaks to the importance of mental toughness, how his background in sports impacted his disciplined approach to filmmaking, and much more. Links from the show:Jonathon M. Smith - EmailBroken City - AmazonJonathon M. Smith - X Jonathon M. Smith- InstagramSign up for my newsletter for exclusive filmmaking insight each Sunday.

In this episode, I dive deep into the world of single location filmmaking and share my thoughts making the most of your micro-budget production.Throughout the show I unpack many of the common pitfalls associated with this approach - like keeping your audience engaged and avoiding visual repetition - along with creative solutions at each step. Topics covered include:Writing your script around the location from the beginningSeeking out primal stories with high stakes and character potentialUtilizing every space within the location to add visual varietyVarying the time of day to create diverse lighting setups and moodsCasting dynamic actors with natural chemistry to add intensityAll of this and much more on today's show!Sign up for my newsletter for exclusive filmmaking insight each Sunday.

Today I am joined by Ryan McGuire, who heads up the commercial production company Cutter Studios in Tokyo, Japan. Throughout the interview, Ryan and I take a deep dive into the world of commercial filmmaking. Ryan shares his story launching a niche production business in Japan, which has attracted clients like Amazon and Zeiss along the way. We also discuss tips for filmmakers looking to build an impressive body of work, how to best differentiate yourself, the impact of AI on the industry, and much more. Links from the show: Cutter Studios Tokyo Ryan McGuire - LinkedInRyan McGuire - InstagramSign up for my newsletter for exclusive filmmaking insight each Sunday.

In this episode I am joined by friend of the show, Marcus Mizelle. An Emmy award winning feature filmmaker who has made numerous successful DIY narrative and documentary films.Throughout the interview we talk about Marcus’ leap from scripted micro-budget narratives, to breakthrough feature doc projects. He speaks to the importance of curation in modern day cinema, the state of the theatrical experience, and shares the benefits of podcasting and content creating for filmmakers.This and much more on today's episode!Sign up for my newsletter for exclusive filmmaking insight each Sunday.

Today I am thrilled to have acclaimed DP Oren Soffer on to talk about his recent work on The Creator, and all other things cinematography.Oren is of course known for his brilliant camera work on countless narrative, commercial, and music video projects. He recently co-DP’d The Creator along with Greig Fraser - which drew tons of attention for its stunning visuals and innovative use of the Sony FX3.Throughout the interview, Oren talks about his journey into cinematography, the process of co-DP'ing a project, and tips for budding cinematographers looking to break in. He also shares technical wisdom on green screens vs. gray screens, shooting with the FX3 on a major feature film, and much more! Links from the show:Oren Soffer - Instagram  Oren Soffer - WebsiteSign up for my newsletter for exclusive filmmaking insight each Sunday.

In this episode I am very excited to share my interview with the amazing Barbara Crampton - Known for her iconic genre films like Re-Animator, Jakob’s Wife, Suitable Flesh, and countless others.After recently working with Barbara on our new feature film, I had to get her on the podcast to discuss her unique creative process.Throughout the discussion, we cover Barbara’s career path from soap star to genre legend. We also discuss tips for new directors working with actors, the importance of re-inventing yourself as an artist, landing notable actors for your film, and so much more.Links from the show:Barbara on InstagramBarbara on TwitterBarbara on FacebookScream Dreams PodcastSign up for my newsletter for exclusive filmmaking insight each Sunday.

In this episode, I share a breakdown of some amazing and unconventional lens choices on the feature film Poor Things.While many lenses were used throughout production, there were 4 in particular that I believe contributed most critically to the distinct look of this film - Including a pair of Lomography Petzval lenses, and a 4mm lens adapted from Super 16. Throughout the episode, I cover each lens in depth, explore how they were used, and share other key takeaways from the film.Sign up for my newsletter for exclusive filmmaking insight each Sunday.

In this episode I am joined by DIY filmmaker Marty McGowan, who recently completed his feature film Ava on a budget of just $200!Throughout the episode, we unpack Marty’s creative process, how he pulled off a feature with a 2 person crew, and his approach to building a strong visual palette on a budget. We also touch on his workflow for capturing great performances, the importance of building your own filmmaking model, and more.Links from the show:Marty McGowan - InstagramMarty McGowan - WebsiteSign up for my newsletter for exclusive filmmaking insight each Sunday.

In this new solo episode, I break down these 8 common issues that can kill your indie film:Big egosRushing the scriptDragging out developmentOverspending on equipmentNeglecting actors for cameraMaking sound an afterthoughtNot taking feedback from the teamNot caring about the small detailsThroughout the show I take a deep dive into the root cause of each of these issues, along with practical solutions for working around them.Sign up for my newsletter for exclusive filmmaking insight each Sunday.

In this episode, I am joined by filmmaker Steven Pierce to talk all about his latest feature film Herd.The film follows a woman that ends up trapped between a zombie outbreak and warring militia groups while trying to outrun her past. An ambitious concept for a micro-budget, making the execution of it all that much more impressive.Throughout the episode Steven and I speak about his new film at length. We cover his tactics for shooting action sequences on a budget, how he covered 20+ locations, the process of editing his own film, and much more.Links from the show:Herd - Movie WebsiteHerd - InstagramSteven Pierce - InstagramSign up for my newsletter for exclusive filmmaking insight each Sunday.

In this new solo episode, I compare and contrast my experience directing and DP’ing two separate feature films, and share tips for other filmmakers looking to do the same.Throughout the episode we cover everything from camera & lens choice to on-set workflow. All with the intention of maximizing collaboration with actors, achieving great production value, and simplifying your on-set workflow.Sign up for my newsletter for exclusive filmmaking insight each Sunday.