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Introduction: As a new filmmaker, it’s easy to get caught up in the allure of the latest and greatest gear. The industry is constantly evolving, and it’s tempting to believe that owning the newest equipment will automatically elevate your work. However, I recently embarked on a different approach – working with what I have now. In this blog post, I want to share my experience and encourage fellow filmmakers to embrace their current gear before rushing to make new purchases.

1. The Myth of Better Gear: It’s important to acknowledge that gear does play a role in filmmaking, but it’s not the sole determinant of success. Many aspiring filmmakers fall into the trap of thinking that better equipment automatically leads to better films. While high-quality gear can enhance your work, it’s crucial to remember that creativity and storytelling are at the heart of filmmaking.

2. The Power of Constraints: Working with limited resources can actually fuel your creativity. Constraints force you to think outside the box and find innovative solutions. Instead of focusing on what you don’t have, embrace the challenge and explore the possibilities within your current gear. You’ll be surprised at the unique ideas that emerge when you push the boundaries.

3. Mastering Your Tools: Rather than constantly chasing the latest gear, take the time to truly understand and master the equipment you already own. Experiment with different settings, learn the intricacies of your camera, and explore its full potential. By becoming intimately familiar with your gear, you’ll be able to maximize its capabilities and produce outstanding results.

4. Prioritizing Storytelling: Filmmaking is ultimately about storytelling. No amount of fancy equipment can compensate for a weak narrative. Instead of obsessing over gear, invest your time and energy in developing compelling stories. Focus on honing your scriptwriting skills, understanding character development, and perfecting your storytelling techniques. A powerful story will captivate your audience far more than any piece of equipment.

5. The Reward of Growth: By challenging yourself to work with what you have now, you’ll not only develop your creativity but also gain a deeper appreciation for the craft. As you push the limits of your current gear, you’ll discover new techniques, learn valuable lessons, and grow as a filmmaker. This growth is far more rewarding than any new purchase could ever be.

Conclusion: As a new filmmaker, it’s natural to desire the latest gear. However, it’s important to remember that creativity and storytelling are the foundation of great filmmaking. By embracing your current gear and focusing on honing your skills, you’ll be able to produce remarkable work that stands out. So, before rushing to make new purchases, challenge yourself to work with what you have now. You might just surprise yourself with the incredible results you can achieve.

If you can do things in small increments you’ll develop the big picture.

“The artistic spirit is restless”

-Zane Lowe

I grab this quote from an interview Zane was having with Cordae on his new album “From a Birds Eye View” it spoke to my spirit in this moment. I’m restless and trying to show patience…it’s difficult.

This week we will use our “Prelined” script to create a “Storyboard” based on the shots conceived from writing the script.

What is a storyboard? Storyboards demonstrate camera composition and act as a visual storytelling process. Our Storyboards require a minimum of 12 shots, covering the full script with proper 16×9 aspect ratio properly exposed.

Also, a shooting order will be accomplished using a shooting number process i.e. scene 1a, b,c… Scene 1a would be scene 1 first shot, 1b is the second shot. Many time studios shoot out of order, numbering shots help to keep track and also get all the shots needed for that particular camera set up and exposure.

Now back to my homework.

Above you will see a section from a short film I’m working on in class “ The Garden”. It’s a conversation a little girl is having with a land developer and she just doesn’t understand why she has to lose her community garden.

When shooting on set, a Script Supervisor would have a copy of the script with and without lines. The script with lines helps the Script Supervisor know which camera angles to get.

A “pre-lined script” is a script that has camera angles annotated on the actual script to communicate with the Script Supervisor what shots to get i.e. Wide shot, Medium Close Up, Close Up…during particular parts of the script and dialogue.

This months class assignment is to (re)write a script. The script will then be crafted into a 2-4 minute short film. My script is a conversation between a little girl and a land developer who has come to buy up the neighborhood and in her mind ruin her world which lies in the community garden her neighborhood shares.

In Full Sails Online Digital Cinematography Bachelors program we are taught many aspects of the film industry. Useful tools for the future.

Watch, Memphis native, Rachel “Patchwrk” King founder of Patchwrk; a customizable clothier, breeze through 68 questions with The Thread.
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