Independent filmmaking is not for the faint of heart or in more crude terms, not for whimps. As their moniker implies, independent filmmakers prioritize creative freedom over money, but this liberation costs them a hefty price tag. However, with the currency native to the independent trade: passion, prayer and the kindess of strangers–movies do find their way from dreams to images on a screen.
Before any movie sees the light of day, a film maker cannot ignore one important aspect: money. Making a movie is also a business. Even if a film maker never pay full wages and costs for crew members, actors, services and equipment for the production of the movie, he or she must eventually pay the bottom line. Although money may be scare, it is also everywhere…you just have to find it!
As many experienced filmmakers attest, one must be a shameless producer and not be shy about knocking on doors, winning grands, fundraising, and even asking family and friends for help in financing. Budgets can range from shorts to feature length productions. In all, determination and passion is what you need to drive you to make your film.