what filming equipment would I need to make a short film?

Question

I would like to make some short films and need to buy equipment for them. However, I'm not sure what I'm going to need. The films will be fairly simple but need to look professional - although the equipment can't be too expensive. Please help!!

Is there any special lighting equipment and sound equipment that I might need? Also any editing equipment I might need?

Answer 1

it really depends on how 'professional' you want your films to look.. most digital camera will have a 'movie' mode which is usually not too bad, but its certainly not going to produce something you'd submit to a film festival etc...

mini dv is probably much better format to use and from there you can move into quite expensive camera's etc...

lighting will be one of the most important factors, whatever you use, make sure you set the white balance on your camera to the correct light source...

and lastly, if you're going to include dialogue, try to get everybody to wear tie microphones, it saves a lot of hassle in the post production stage..

alternatively, if you're a graduate, check with your university and their alumni service, chances are you might be able to borrow, or rent very cheaply some relatively professional equipment from them... good luck..

Answer 2

A mini dv video camera is probably cheapest and can give professional results. You will also need a package such as "final cut" for the mac or pc which lets you easily chop up and sew your film together. Good luck

Answer 3

A camera helps

Answer 4

Make a flick book, scan the pages in, and convert it all to Quicktime.

Answer 5

Cell phone :)
Buy at least a Panasonic TZ1.
If you have more money, you can buy a handy cam. Sony has some models.