Tips and Tricks

These days, the sky is the limit when it comes to shooting a movie. We've gathered a few simple tips for movie making, but they're just suggestions. Some movies succeed because they break the rules! But if you do decide to go the experimental route, be sure you have a good reason for doing so.

The best tip is to have a clear goal in your movie: What are you trying to say?

We talked to a couple of experienced moviemakers. Here are some of their tips:

• Plan each shot before shooting so you know what you're doing.
• Try to eliminate background noise as much as possible.
• Keep the background simple -- you don't want any distractions.
• Consider the light for each shot. Does the light interfere with the shot? Or does it help the shot?
• Include details that help make your point. Little things can make a difference!
• Remember the “five w's”: who, what, when, where, why.
• If you have other people in your movie, talk to them to make them comfortable before shooting.
• If it fits with your story, consider using music to create a mood. But remember that your video must be all your own material -- and that includes any musical tracks.