Don't Overshoot The Small Stuff

We've all heard the stories. Our friend was in this amazing indie film BUT... the director didn't get the coverage so the film will never be finished.

More and more, I'm thinking that this is bullshit.

No film has ever been shelved because they really needed that insert shot of a coffee mug. Let alone that the shot wasn't "right".

If you are making an indie film: Have a shotlist. Get the shots you need. But focus on telling your story.

It's really easy to get caught up in getting just the right shot. You want to compete with the studios. You want your film to be beautiful. and rightly so.

But more important than that is getting your film done.

I just watched 8 takes of me drinking from a cup.

Take one was fine, but because I want every shot to be perfect, I did too many takes.

So? what's the big deal?

Well, I could have moved on and shot something else, and gotten the film shot sooner.

And the best film, is a done film.

At least that's my opinion.

Thanks For Reading.

Edward Janis Gusts.

Let me know your thoughts in the comments