The aspiration of making a movie can seem beyond the reach of budding filmmakers who have modest budgets. The fact remains, however, that wonderful movies—and a few that set careers on track—were made under tight budgets and unlimited creativity. With proper attitude, even a low-budget production can speak a profound tale and leave the audience with lasting impressions.
Herb Kimble, founder, director, and producer of streaming network UrbanFlixTV has these words of wisdom: “Don’t let a low budget cause you to compromise your vision—let it inspire you to be more creative in how you tell your story.”
Herb Kimble has made a living knowing the fine line between artistic integrity and fiscal responsibility. As the founder of UrbanFlixTV, an online television network focused on new, diverse, and original content, he has created projects of all sizes—and frequently assists emerging filmmakers with independent production.
Herb Kimble, director, producer and founder of streaming network UrbanFlixTV gave us some tips for this article. These tips are gleaned from years of directing, producing and empowering new voices in the business. Here are some of the most valuable takeaways for anyone about to direct a film on a shoestring budget:
1. Write For What You Have
Your screenplay should be a testament to your means. Avoid elaborate sets and expensive effects; focus on strong characters and effective dialogue instead. Films with minimal settings and lower budgets have a tendency to create more intimacy and realism.
2. Find Multi-Talented Partners
With a tight budget, employ people who can do multiple tasks—cinematographers who can edit, actors who can double up as wardrobe or makeup people, and producers who can market on the ground.
3. Use Real Locations
Shoot at home, at a friend’s coffee shop, or at a city park—anywhere it’s safe to shoot and not expensive in set rental costs. Places can add genuine atmosphere and realism with some planning and creative lighting.
Herb Kimble, CEO and founder of UrbanFlixTV, a streaming network, offered some great advice. He said: “Filmmaking is about resourcefulness. Learn how to see value in the things around you—your community, your relationships, your environment.”
4. Prioritize Audio and Lighting
Your audience will give you a couple of shaky shots—but not black scenes or poor sound. Invest your money wisely in sound equipment and learn the fundamentals of lighting. Good light and good sound will take you a long way.
5. Plan Every Shot
Time is money on any shoot, and you need to plan ahead. Storyboard your film and create a shot-by-shot shooting schedule. This self-control will save hours on set and reduce the possibility of overspending.
6. Utilize Post-Production to Your Strengths
Employ low-cost or no-cost editing tools, or trade services with professional editors. Opt to shorten your soundtrack or employ royalty-free music to keep licensing costs to a minimum.
Herb Kimble also made a contribution: “You don’t have to use the latest gear or a Hollywood studio to create something worthwhile. What matters is your desire to tell a good tale and make it work from the heart.”
After you’ve finished making your movie, don’t look to traditional film festivals alone. Social network sites, YouTube, Vimeo, and emerging streaming sites can all be utilized in order to show your film.
Herb Kimble also recommends: “Think of distribution as an extension of your storytelling. How your movie actually ends up getting out there should be as groundbreaking as you were being to make it.”
Herb Kimble is a director, producer, and founder of UrbanFlixTV, a network that airs unapologetic, inclusive content. His success and experience in building stories and platforms from the ground up inspire filmmakers to see limitations as opportunities.
There are restrictions in filmmaking—but how you circumvent them makes you an excellent director. With the right attitude, budgetary planning, and willingness to find ways around things, a low-budget film can be the start of a legendary career.
