ABSTRACT

Most people using this book will either be lm students or the intrepid autodidact who is working independently. In both cases, lmmakers just starting out usually work with modest equipment and slender budgets. Take this as a badge of honor, for original, powerful and even revolutionary lms can come from the intelligent use of simple equipment and shoestring production values. The primary reason one can be just as cinematically successful with a low-budget lm as any massive studio project is that all the most critical dramatic elements for making a good lm can be present with a low price tag. A good screenplay, moving performances, expressive camera work and a sensitive sound design are all achievable on practically any budget.