Dan Blank shot “Whatever Lola Wants” with a shoestring budget and a Canon EOS 7D that you can pick up for under $2,000 with lens included. This video shows that you don’t need a huge budget or ridiculously expensive camera gear, just a lot of planning, some great networking skills and a vision! I’ll say it again, HDSLR’s are a real revolution in filmmaking. If you’re not into the HDSLR scene this video is still a great example of how plates are shot and some impressive green screen compositing in action. Plus, if you’re not familiar with previsualization (previz) software this is an excellent example of its role in filmmaking.

Oh yeah – That budget? It checked in just under $2,000 – I’ll credit Dan’s networking skills on that one!

Have you ever had a unique idea and thought to yourself, “I want to make that into a movie!” But then real life kicks in and you begin to think, “Yeah, I would never get the budget for that.” However, as long as the concept is there producing something bigger than what is originally thought to be possible can still happen.

All it takes is a little creativity which is why I thought we could create a forum for those ideas. Which in the end, could possibly lead to some more ideas and networking for those of you out there who are looking to start something with a little bit more uhmf behind it.

So tell us, what are your concepts? What are you ideas? What have you always thought would be cool to shoot?

Being an independent videographer usually means all expenses are coming out of your own pocket. Whether you’re just starting out as a videographer or have been making videos for some time, there probably are occasions when your greatest obstacle is working around a tight budget. The secret to making your budget stretch as far as it can is getting a handle on Do-It-Yourself (DIY) projects.

DIY projects can save you handfuls of money while allowing you to achieve the look you want. One example of a fairly easy project is making your own green screen. The folks at Indy Mogul explain how you can build a portable green screen with PVC pipe, material and a budget of only $40.

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=JwZQq156MDM

Once you have your green screen constructed, you’ll be able to recreate the same effects as the big-budget Hollywood movies. But don’t stop at the green screen. There are many more DIY projects that can increase your production value while keeping your costs down and your wallet happy.

Don’t know what to do with your green screen once you’ve got it built? Check out our green screen articles, tutorials, and Tips and Tricks videos which will help you get the most out of your newly constructed green screen.