Show Don't Tell: Micro-budget Filmmaking

In this episode, I am joined by filmmaker Nick Psinakis to discuss his journey creating four feature films with creative partner Kevin Ignatius and how they've developed a sustainable model for indie filmmaking.Throughout our conversation, we explore their evolution from DIY beginnings to community-supported productions, with special emphasis on how they've maintained high production value on micro-budgets. Topics covered include:Their progression from a $65K genre film to their newest feature, "Valley View Motel"Building strong community support in small-town Pennsylvania as a production baseMaximizing efficiency with minimal crew and strategic location planningCreative approaches to chronological shooting and managing weather variablesNavigating the ever-changing sales and distribution landscapeThe delicate balance between artistic integrity and commercial viabilityTheir post-production workflow and co-directing dynamicLinks from the show: 418 Films - Instagram Cheat - Watch on Amazon Prime Sign up for my n

In this episode, I am joined by filmmaker Vivian Kerr to discuss her journey from acting to directing and how she successfully brought her first two feature films to life without traditional industry connections. Vivian's debut feature, Scrap - a family dramedy starring herself alongside Anthony Rapp (Rent, Star Trek Discovery) - completed a two-year festival run spanning 43 festivals before its recent VOD release. She followed this quickly with her second feature, Seance, a psychological thriller that recently premiered at the Newport Beach Film Festival. Throughout our conversation, we explored:Vivian's background and transition from theater to filmmakingThe genesis of Scrap and its exploration of hidden homelessnessHow she leveraged a short film version of Scrap to secure feature financingUsing the equity crowdfunding platform WeFunder to raise the bulk of her financingManaging post-production on one film while doing a festival run with anotherThe genesis of Seance and writing a contained feature during th

In this episode, I am joined by filmmaker Ethan Hegel, who recently made his feature directorial debut with Purgatory Station after years of honing his craft behind the camera. Throughout the interview, Ethan shares his unique path to serving as director, DP, editor, and colorist on multiple feature films. Topics covered include:The importance of having a supportive network that encourages creative risk-takingHow color grading expertise deepened Ethan's cinematography knowledge.Adapting and improving someone else's screenplay while maintaining the core storyShooting an ambitious feature in just 7 days with minimal pre-production timePractical techniques for achieving convincing day-for-night and night-for-day lightingEffective methods for directing actors that focus on emotional motivationThe value of balancing self-sufficiency and collaboration in filmmakingLinks from the show: Ethan Hegel - Instagram Moving On - Short Film Purgatory Station - Prime Video Sign up for my newsletter for exclusive filmmaking in

In this episode, I am joined by actor/director Matt Cohen (Supernatural, General Hospital, Entertainment Tonight) and producer Sean Flanagan to discuss their innovative approach to making films in today's changing landscape.Throughout our conversation, we explore their upcoming feature Exes and animated series Public Domain, while unpacking their unique production model built on relationships, creative problem-solving, and maximizing resources.Topics covered include:Juggling 12+ projects in various stages of developmentThe importance of focusing on "evergreen" concepts vs chasing trendsAchieving high production value on ultra low budgets through strategic choicesThe value of maintaining morale and team spirit on low budget productionsFinding creative solutions to budgetary limitations rather than compromising qualityBuilding a sustainable model for independent filmmaking in today's marketMuch more!Links from the show:Matt Cohen - InstagramSean Flanagan - InstagramPublic Domain Series - InstagramPublic Domain

In this episode, I am joined by filmmaker Ernie Gilbert to discuss his work on A24's upcoming horror-thriller-comedy OPUS, which recently premiered at Sundance. Throughout our discussion, we explore Ernie’s creative process, his work in commercials & music videos, career building, and more. Topics covered include:The benefits of bringing editors on early in pre-productionEditing remotely while production is taking placeHow to maintain fresh eyes on long-form projectsBalancing work across features, commercials, and music videosThe transition from editing to directing and backBuilding relationships and collecting "merit badges" in the industryBest practices for managing conflicting creative notesLinks from the show: Ernie Gilbert - WebsiteErnie Gilbert - Instagram Sign up for my newsletter for exclusive filmmaking insight each Sunday

In this episode, I am joined by filmmaker Rob Smat who shares his experience transitioning from the $100,000 feature film The Last Whistle to a $10,000 documentary Walkout, and the valuable lessons learned along the way.Throughout our discussion, we explore the realities of micro-budget filmmaking and distribution through the lens of both projects. Topics covered include:• How scaling down production increases creative control• Working with traditional distributors vs. self-distribution platforms• Marketing & AVOD strategies for micro-budget films• The importance of building a sustainable filmmaking career• The value of making multiple films vs. betting only on one project• Finding success through grassroots marketing and community outreachLinks from the show: Film Collaborative's Distributor Report Card BitMAXWatch Walkout - Available on iTunes, Google Play, and other digital platformsWalkout Companion Podcast - Available on all podcast platformsSign up for my newsletter for exclusive filmmaking insight

In this episode, I am joined by film editor Stefania Dulowski to discuss her work on the Sundance dramatic competition feature film Bunny Lover. We dive deep into her editorial process and explore the tactics she used to pull off an amazing edit in record time.Topics covered include:Completing a first cut in just one monthNavigating test screenings and filmmaker feedbackThe importance of technical skills and communication in editingEditorial workflow breakdown from dailies review to final cutBalancing creative vision with practical constraintsLinks from the show:• Stefania Dulowski's Website• Stefania Dulowski's Instagram• Sign up for my newsletter for exclusive filmmaking insight each Sunday

In this episode, I am thrilled to be joined by actor and filmmaker Samantha Scaffidi, known for her role in the massively successful Terrifier franchise, and her upcoming short film Open Your Eyes.Thought the episode, Samantha offers a unique perspective on independent filmmaking from both sides of the camera. We unpack how the Terrifier films evolved from a $30,000 micro-budget horror film to a $2M theatrical blockbuster, while maintaining its independent spirit - thanks to director Damien Leone's uncompromising vision.We also explore the realities of modern independent filmmaking, the importance of artistic integrity, and why sometimes less resources can lead to more creative freedom. Samantha shares insights from her experience both acting in micro-budget productions and directing high-end commercials, ultimately explaining why she chose to return to her independent filmmaking roots.Topics covered include: How Terrifier evolved from a $30K first film to a $2M third installmentThe crew behind the original T

In this episode, I am joined by director Misha Calvert and actor Raye Spielberg to unpack their latest short film PINK FLAGS - a figure skating drama that stars both Raye and her husband Sawyer Spielberg.Throughout our discussion, we dive into the collaborative process at length, with special emphasis on the merits of working with close friends and family. Topics covered include:Misha's journey from directing comedy & TV to making a full scale short filmTurning a $50K budget into $300K of production valueRaye's three months of figure skating training & how it helped set this film apartThe dynamics of actor-director workflows when working with friendsBenefits of short films vs. long form projectsMuch more!Links from them show:Misha Calvert - InstagramMisha Calvert - WebsiteMisha Calvert - ClassesRaye Spielberg - InstagramRaye Spielberg - WebsiteSign up for my newsletter for exclusive filmmaking insight each Sunday.

In this episode, I am joined by filmmaker Shannon E. Brown, here to discuss her latest short film Overnights - inspired by her real life experience in the veterinary industry, and the burnout that it caused.Shannon combined her background in the veterinary world, improv comedy, and horror sensibilities to create a deeply personal, uniquely stylized short film. Throughout the interview, we discuss:The parallels between comedy and horror genres in filmmakingProducing the film in two days in a borrowed dental officeWorking with Little Shop of Gore for practical effectsWriting from real experiences in the veterinary industryStrategic approaches to film festival submissionsExperiences at notable genre festivals like Panic FestWorking with comedy performers in dramatic rolesMuch more!Links from the show: Overnights - Short FilmShannon E. Brown - InstagramShannon E. Brown - WebsiteSign up for my newsletter for exclusive filmmaking insight each Sunday.

In this episode, I am joined by filmmaker Kim Noonan, who made his feature directorial debut at age 50 with two horror films - proving you can take your career to the next level at any age.After years of making award-winning short films, Kim transitioned to features with the found-footage horror film Nyctophobia and followed it up with the supernatural thriller Are You There? which secured distribution through Dark Sky Films.Topics covered include:Kim's journey from acting to directingMaking his feature filmmaking debut at age 50How he made a micro-budget found footage film in 10 daysScaling up to a larger production while maintaining creative controlThe importance of casting and giving actors space to find their charactersMaintaining momentum and avoiding creative burnoutThe distinction between festival success and commercial distributionLinks from the show:Kim Noonan – WebsiteKim Noonan – InstagramSign up for my newsletter for exclusive filmmaking insight each Sunday.

In this episode, I am joined by filmmaker Sripal Sama, who turned his engineering background into an advantage when crafting his debut feature How's That for Monday?While holding down his day job as an IT security engineer, Sripal managed to write, direct, and produce a compelling thriller for just $65,000 - and secured theatrical distribution in both the US and India. Our discussion dives deep into his filmmaking approach and distribution journey.Topics covered include:How Sripal benefitted from his background outside the film industryShooting a 68-page script in 16.5 days across 5 key locationsCreative approaches to minimal coverage that still tell a compelling storyNavigating theatrical releases in two countries without a major marketing budgetReaching 50% budget recoupment through strategic platform selectionDrawing inspiration from both American indie cinema and Indian filmmaking techniquesLinks from the show:Sripal Sama - TwitterSripal Sama -  InstagramSripal Sama - EmailSign up for my newsletter for ex

Today I am joined by film critic turned filmmaker Jean-Baptiste Herment, here to talk about his DIY feature film Épidermique. Throughout the episode we discuss: How Jean-Baptiste produced the feature film with no crewBenefits of spreading out the production schedule over a yearDrawing inspiration from Italian cinema, Robert Rodriguez and beyondThe benefits of shooting monochrome on a low budgetUsing 4 - 5 different cameras and matching them in postThe merits of film festivals vs. online self-distributionMuch more!Links from the show: Épidermique - Instagram Akaba Media - Vimeo Akaba Media - YouYubeSign up for my newsletter for exclusive filmmaking insight each Sunday.

Today I am joined by acclaimed documentary filmmaker Roger Nygard, who you might know from films like Trekkies, Suckers, and The Truth About Marriage. Throughout our discussion, we unpack Roger’s winning formula for making and selling documentary films. Topics covered include: Why $100,000 is the magic number as a starting point for your budgetThe realities of recouping your costs, and what to expect from salesHow to generate interest from multiple buyers to up your minimum guaranteeThe importance of theme from a creative and business perspectiveApplying traditional storytelling principles to challenging topicsBest practices for getting started making your next docLinks from the show:Roger Nygard - Website The Documentarian - BookSign up for my newsletter for exclusive filmmaking insight each Sunday.

In this episode, I am joined by filmmaker Mark Mc Auley to discuss the creative process behind his feature film aWake, which was shot in a single day!The discussion covers his entire creative workflow, philosophical approach to filmmaking, production tactics, and loads more. Some of the topics covered include: Adapting a short film into to a featureUsing single takes to produce a feature in one dayElevating “stage play” ideas with a cinematic treatmentThe importance of setting rules for your productionHow to build your own filmmaking modelCultivating resilience for long term successCreating buzz and navigating festivalsLinks from the show:Awake - Film WebsiteMark Mc Auley - WebsiteMark Mc Auley - XMark Mc Auley - InstagramSign up for my newsletter for exclusive filmmaking insight each Sunday.

This episode is part 2 in the no-budget cinematography series, where we explore methods and tactics for achieving strong visuals with limited means.Topics covered include: The 33% rule for shooting coverage5 ideal coverage methods for no-budget productionsShooting scenes in a single take (while avoiding common mistakes)Alternate methods to traditional “film school” coverageHow the “scene split” technique can improve quality and save timeMuch more!These lessons offer a glimpse into my upcoming filmmaking course No-Budget Cinematography Blueprint, which will be released next week.As a listener, you can save 50% when you pre-order the course now!Simply use code: SDT50 at checkout here.

Today I am thrilled to be joined by the amazingly talented Jim Cummings, who you know as the Sundance winning writer / director / actor behind films like Thunder Road, The Wolf Of Snow Hollow, and The Beta Test. Jim recently released a brand new short film titled Is Now A Good Time, which we discuss at length throughout the podcast. The conversation spans Jim’s filmmaking journey post-Thunder Road, his creative process for developing ideas, and tactics for filmmakers looking to improve their craft. Jim also shares a sneak peek at his upcoming television series, thoughts on the future of Hollywood, and much more!Links from the show:Is Now A Good Time - Short FilmJim Cummings - InstagramJim Cummings - XSign up for my newsletter for exclusive filmmaking insight each Sunday.

Today we take a deep dive into the world of no-budget cinematography, looking at methods and workflows for achieving better results within limited means. The full episode covers: The 3 “no’s” of no-budget cinematographyWorkflow differences on a no-budget productionAvoiding common pitfalls that can kill production valueLighting setups, blocking, framing, and actor placementUsing day-for-night as a tool for both interiors and exteriorsMuch more!These lessons offer a glimpse into my upcoming filmmaking course No-Budget Cinematography Blueprint, which will be released later this month.As a listener, you can save 50% when you pre-order the course now!Simply use code: SDT50 at checkout here.Sign up for my newsletter for exclusive filmmaking insight each Sunday.

Today I am joined by returning guest Whitney Ingram to talk all about the world of freelance filmmaking.After a stint working in-house as a content creator, Whitney recently re-entered the freelance world and is already finding success landing projects that align with her creative goals. Throughout the episode we explore the benefits (and challenges) of going freelance full time, and how Whitney strikes a balance between corporate gigs and passion projects.Whitney also shares her recent experience directing and DP'ing a short film, leveraging social media as a career tool, and strategies for landing paid work.Links from the show:Whitney Ingram - InstagramWhitney Ingram - YouTubeSign up for my newsletter for exclusive filmmaking insight each Sunday.

In this episode, we explore the age old issue of imposter syndrome and look at ways to eliminate self-doubt as a filmmaker. From comparing yourself to others to fear of failure - the episode is packed with strategies to combat negativity.Topics covered include:The difference between healthy self-criticism and debilitating doubtWhy you should avoid sharing your film ideas prematurelyThe dangers of setting arbitrary deadlines for "making it" in the industryHow to handle criticism from non-filmmakersWhy making films repeatadly is the best way to overcome self doubtAll of this and much more on today's show.Sign up for my newsletter for exclusive filmmaking insight each Sunday.