2 answers
Orion
Student
Rock Hill, South Carolina
10
Questions
Asked
550 views
How do you get a "set" as a low budget film maker?
I'm looking to get a set location to film, but I don't know where to start seeing as it is a very low budget project any ideas would be greatly appreciated.
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2 answers
Marc Bradburry II
Manager/Consultant
14
Answers
Henrietta, TX
Updated
Marc’s Answer
Try the chamber of commerce for any properties or locations they may have available. A lot of times there are large buildings like empty wal-marts or abandoned production plants that revert to the city. Offer up credit recognition "filmed in "city" and a special thank you to "city" chamber of commerce" in lieu of payment, it is essentially a form of advertising for the city.
Post local ads searching for specific things, example "Production crew looking for barn location to film part of movie", you'd be surprised how many people will offer up their properties for just an opportunity to get on screen.
Go to small towns and approach non-chain businesses to use their business as a set (gas stations, grocery stores, restaurants, hardware store, etc) ask to do it during a slow time, right before open or right after close, or days they are typically closed (this may need late or weekend hours but an opportunity is an opportunity).
Some retail space managers will allow you to rent areas for days or weeks for certain things.
Whatever permission/agreement you get, make sure you get it in writing.
Post local ads searching for specific things, example "Production crew looking for barn location to film part of movie", you'd be surprised how many people will offer up their properties for just an opportunity to get on screen.
Go to small towns and approach non-chain businesses to use their business as a set (gas stations, grocery stores, restaurants, hardware store, etc) ask to do it during a slow time, right before open or right after close, or days they are typically closed (this may need late or weekend hours but an opportunity is an opportunity).
Some retail space managers will allow you to rent areas for days or weeks for certain things.
Whatever permission/agreement you get, make sure you get it in writing.
Your advice was so helpful!
Orion
Annaleigh Niedzielski
Videographer, Producer, Assistant Director
65
Answers
Phoenix, Arizona
Updated
Annaleigh’s Answer
Hi Orion!
My best advice for you as a filmmaker with small budgets: You don't need a "professional set"! Get incredibly creative with your shooting, sometimes an empty street under a light is the best set you can find. Go out around your local area with your scenes in mind and find anything that might work; keeping in mind lighting, camera angles, and number of actors. If you want to film at a park or other outdoor location, just google to find out if you need a permit! As far as indoors, look into local businesses that might be closed on certain days, I have filmed at cafes and hardware stores on Sundays!
My best advice for you as a filmmaker with small budgets: You don't need a "professional set"! Get incredibly creative with your shooting, sometimes an empty street under a light is the best set you can find. Go out around your local area with your scenes in mind and find anything that might work; keeping in mind lighting, camera angles, and number of actors. If you want to film at a park or other outdoor location, just google to find out if you need a permit! As far as indoors, look into local businesses that might be closed on certain days, I have filmed at cafes and hardware stores on Sundays!