8 answers
Noah
Student
Sabinal, Texas
2
Questions
Asked
840 views
How should I start becoming a movie director/writer when I don't have a phone?
I don't have a phone and I really want to make movies and sometimes write stories for them and I want to choose the casting. Someone help me please!!!
8 answers
Gregory Andracke
Cinematographer
17
Answers
New York, New York
Updated
Gregory’s Answer
Good answers, especially the use of cameras at school. I have nothing to add to all the fine recommendations.
Thank you, this is amazing! I really needed it.
Noah
Sky Patterson
Photography
1
Answer
Lake Worth, Florida
Updated
Sky’s Answer
I HIGHLY recommend to go to first institute college online. They are a trade school that you can take anywhere in the United States. The school gives you a free creative pack to keep that includes a camera, lights, etc. More information is on https://learn.first.edu/digital-media-school-intd?campaignid=1054&utm_campaign=branded_search_general&utm_source=google&utm_medium=cpc&utm_term=first%20institute&gad_source=1&gclid=Cj0KCQjwo8S3BhDeARIsAFRmkOM90pFDTHIOUbqYe1ZzUZeIp3Y3heRPuq6I7DhAadbHXq3dQuXZjSMaAlTgEALw_wcB
Michelle M.
Entertainment Industry
1879
Answers
Updated
Michelle’s Answer
Hello, Noah !
Great question and I am glad you are reaching out to us about your interest in starting your filmmaking experience. You have the right idea, about writing and directing (and being the casting director also) because that will be an excellent way to begin !
Your first step is to find out how you can obtain either a phone or a digital camera. There are some Donation Organizations that you can find by searching on the internet that may donate a phone to you. These would be Secure the Call, Urban Ventures (cameras are given). Also try Heart of Texas Goodwill Industries. Next you might try camera and photography stores because they either may have donations of cameras to give or can refer you to places that are providing students with donated cameras.
Remember that one of your parents, if income eligible, can order a free phone from the government. I left a link for you below on how it's done in Texas. Let one of your parents apply for it.
Ask one of your teachers at school if you can use any of the video cameras that students use while doing projects for school. Another idea is to get someone to work with you on your film who does have a camera and use their camera. Right now your main focus should be obtaining a phone or digital camera so you can start your project. Have you asked your parents, grandparents or other relatives to help you out with this ? Someone in your family may be willing to buy you a phone or digital camera so you should ask. There is a wide range of prices so if someone is willing to buy you one of the lower priced, that would be great, but you never know what they will offer. There are some digital cameras from between $100.00 to $200.00. Talk about this with your family. Amazon has cameras for as low a $36.00. Focus on obtaining a camera whichever way so that you can start your project.
It is absolutely fine to begin with video. Another idea that I have for you to get access to a phone or digital camera is that many people have bought new phones and just leave their old phone sitting around in a drawer because they're using their new phone. Ask them if you can have their old phone (or digital camera that they don't use) and tell them that you will happily give them on screen credit as someone who made your film possible. I thought of this because I am using an old phone for photos and video even though it doesn't have service on it. The camera will still work and includes minimal editing features.
Another thing you can start now is get a general grasp on how to edit your project. There's a wealth of information about this online as well as videos at You Tube that will help you a lot.
Pace yourself, relax and refine your script and think about casting options, what types would be best for your film. Establish what types of actors you have in mind for your project. I also want to let you know that you should return here to Career Village during any phase of your project and ask more questions as we are always happy to help out. Mention your age range, too so that we would know if your are in junior high, high school or college and can guide you appropriately.
I hope this is helpful and I wish you all the best, a lot of fun and a great learning experience working on your first project ! Don't give up - you can do this !
TEXAS FREE PHONE https://bestallreview.com/free-government-phone-in-texas/
VERY INEXPENSIVE DIGITAL CAMERAS TO BUY AS LOW AS $ 36.00 ON AMAZON https://www.amazon.com/Digital-Cameras-25-50-Camera-Photo/s?rh=n%3A281052%2Cp_36%3A1253504011
Great question and I am glad you are reaching out to us about your interest in starting your filmmaking experience. You have the right idea, about writing and directing (and being the casting director also) because that will be an excellent way to begin !
Your first step is to find out how you can obtain either a phone or a digital camera. There are some Donation Organizations that you can find by searching on the internet that may donate a phone to you. These would be Secure the Call, Urban Ventures (cameras are given). Also try Heart of Texas Goodwill Industries. Next you might try camera and photography stores because they either may have donations of cameras to give or can refer you to places that are providing students with donated cameras.
Remember that one of your parents, if income eligible, can order a free phone from the government. I left a link for you below on how it's done in Texas. Let one of your parents apply for it.
Ask one of your teachers at school if you can use any of the video cameras that students use while doing projects for school. Another idea is to get someone to work with you on your film who does have a camera and use their camera. Right now your main focus should be obtaining a phone or digital camera so you can start your project. Have you asked your parents, grandparents or other relatives to help you out with this ? Someone in your family may be willing to buy you a phone or digital camera so you should ask. There is a wide range of prices so if someone is willing to buy you one of the lower priced, that would be great, but you never know what they will offer. There are some digital cameras from between $100.00 to $200.00. Talk about this with your family. Amazon has cameras for as low a $36.00. Focus on obtaining a camera whichever way so that you can start your project.
It is absolutely fine to begin with video. Another idea that I have for you to get access to a phone or digital camera is that many people have bought new phones and just leave their old phone sitting around in a drawer because they're using their new phone. Ask them if you can have their old phone (or digital camera that they don't use) and tell them that you will happily give them on screen credit as someone who made your film possible. I thought of this because I am using an old phone for photos and video even though it doesn't have service on it. The camera will still work and includes minimal editing features.
Another thing you can start now is get a general grasp on how to edit your project. There's a wealth of information about this online as well as videos at You Tube that will help you a lot.
Pace yourself, relax and refine your script and think about casting options, what types would be best for your film. Establish what types of actors you have in mind for your project. I also want to let you know that you should return here to Career Village during any phase of your project and ask more questions as we are always happy to help out. Mention your age range, too so that we would know if your are in junior high, high school or college and can guide you appropriately.
I hope this is helpful and I wish you all the best, a lot of fun and a great learning experience working on your first project ! Don't give up - you can do this !
Michelle recommends the following next steps:
Thank you!
Noah
You're welcome, Noah !
Michelle M.
Patricia Mendoza
Assistant Manager
2
Answers
Paterson, New Jersey
Updated
Patricia’s Answer
Noah, this is no small feat, you're only limiting yourself to something small. As a director or anyone really in the film industry, you shouldn't worry about the small things, as many kids don't have phones and they are inspired to be on the screen one day. There is no rush as everyone starts their journey on their own time. Here are some tips:
- Begin to expand your knowledge.
Watch movies that you don't usually enjoy or know anything about. In my personal life, I've been watching movies/shows that I usually didn't expect to like One Piece, Terrifier, or Alien Romulus. These two although largely different genre-wise, have inspired me to write better, paying attention to the camera angles and how I could attempt that. Read a couple of articles or if reading isn't accessible, watch YouTube, as most of my knowledge came from there even going to college.
- Get friends or family for your films.
With my first film, "A Craving Elsewhere", I used only two people for this as it was a school project in my art class. Only myself and my partner. Then after working on my film for my certificate, I used my partner's two friends and my partner again. In my recent film, "SERENDIPITY", I had an abundant group, and managing them all was risky as this was the first time I would work with most of them professionally. Again, they were all friends to me! Having them in my film made it all the more fun on set with bloopers and such. I advise you to ask friends or family for help and if they do not see your vision, go to local chats on LinkedIn, Discord, or Instagram to ask for casting. They would be okay with no pay, but make sure they're well aware of that. Volunteering would look good on their resume or profiles so make sure you let them know that at least.
- Begin writing as soon as possible!
Just because you do not have a phone, doesn't mean you don't have a pen and paper! When I was a kid, I didn't have a phone to record my movies or scenes, I only used paper and my imagination. I tossed the bad ideas and kept the good ones for later development.
Hopefully, this helped!
- Begin to expand your knowledge.
Watch movies that you don't usually enjoy or know anything about. In my personal life, I've been watching movies/shows that I usually didn't expect to like One Piece, Terrifier, or Alien Romulus. These two although largely different genre-wise, have inspired me to write better, paying attention to the camera angles and how I could attempt that. Read a couple of articles or if reading isn't accessible, watch YouTube, as most of my knowledge came from there even going to college.
- Get friends or family for your films.
With my first film, "A Craving Elsewhere", I used only two people for this as it was a school project in my art class. Only myself and my partner. Then after working on my film for my certificate, I used my partner's two friends and my partner again. In my recent film, "SERENDIPITY", I had an abundant group, and managing them all was risky as this was the first time I would work with most of them professionally. Again, they were all friends to me! Having them in my film made it all the more fun on set with bloopers and such. I advise you to ask friends or family for help and if they do not see your vision, go to local chats on LinkedIn, Discord, or Instagram to ask for casting. They would be okay with no pay, but make sure they're well aware of that. Volunteering would look good on their resume or profiles so make sure you let them know that at least.
- Begin writing as soon as possible!
Just because you do not have a phone, doesn't mean you don't have a pen and paper! When I was a kid, I didn't have a phone to record my movies or scenes, I only used paper and my imagination. I tossed the bad ideas and kept the good ones for later development.
Hopefully, this helped!
Annaleigh Niedzielski
Videographer, Producer, Assistant Director
65
Answers
Phoenix, Arizona
Updated
Annaleigh’s Answer
Hey Noah!
Starting your journey as a movie director and writer without a phone might seem challenging, but there are plenty of ways to dive in! First, focus on honing your writing skills. Grab a notebook and start jotting down ideas, stories, and scripts. You can also read books on screenwriting, like "Save the Cat!" by Blake Snyder or "The Anatomy of Story" by John Truby, to learn about structure and storytelling.
Next, try to get involved with local theater groups or film clubs, where you can meet other aspiring filmmakers and collaborate on projects. Even if you don’t have a phone, you can still network in person and share your work with others. Look for local filmmaking workshops or classes; many community centers or colleges offer these and can be a great way to learn the basics of directing and filmmaking.
If you want to create short films, consider using a basic camera or even borrowing equipment from friends or local filmmakers. Start small with short films or even simple scenes that you can film with whatever resources you have. Share your work with friends and family for feedback, and don’t hesitate to ask for help from others in your community. Keep learning, stay passionate, and remember that creativity can thrive without the latest tech!
I would also like to say that there is no rush! Learn at your pace, become comfortable with the process and enjoy it, work hard, and you will get where you need to be!
Starting your journey as a movie director and writer without a phone might seem challenging, but there are plenty of ways to dive in! First, focus on honing your writing skills. Grab a notebook and start jotting down ideas, stories, and scripts. You can also read books on screenwriting, like "Save the Cat!" by Blake Snyder or "The Anatomy of Story" by John Truby, to learn about structure and storytelling.
Next, try to get involved with local theater groups or film clubs, where you can meet other aspiring filmmakers and collaborate on projects. Even if you don’t have a phone, you can still network in person and share your work with others. Look for local filmmaking workshops or classes; many community centers or colleges offer these and can be a great way to learn the basics of directing and filmmaking.
If you want to create short films, consider using a basic camera or even borrowing equipment from friends or local filmmakers. Start small with short films or even simple scenes that you can film with whatever resources you have. Share your work with friends and family for feedback, and don’t hesitate to ask for help from others in your community. Keep learning, stay passionate, and remember that creativity can thrive without the latest tech!
I would also like to say that there is no rush! Learn at your pace, become comfortable with the process and enjoy it, work hard, and you will get where you need to be!
Chinyere Okafor
Educationist and Counseling Psychologist
549
Answers
Port Harcourt, Rivers, Nigeria
Updated
Chinyere’s Answer
Hello Naoh,
Great question! Starting a journey in movie directing and writing without a phone is definitely possible, and there are several ways to get started:
1. Use Available Resources
- Library Access: Use public libraries to access computers, which you can use for writing scripts, researching, and watching tutorial videos on filmmaking.
- Notebook/Journal: Keep a notebook where you can jot down ideas, sketch scenes, and draft scripts. This will help you stay organized and creative.
2. Learn the Basics
- Books and Online Resources: Borrow books from the library on screenwriting, directing, and filmmaking. You can also use the library's internet access to find free online courses and tutorials on platforms like YouTube, Coursera, or Khan Academy.
- Watch Films: Study films to understand different directing styles, story structures, and techniques. Take notes on what you like and how you might do things differently.
3. Write and Develop Stories
- Start by writing short scripts. Think about the stories you want to tell, the characters, and the settings.
- Experiment with different genres and themes to find your style.
4. Collaborate with Others
- School Projects: If you’re in school, join any drama or film-related clubs. You can work on school projects or pitch ideas for short films to your classmates.
- Local Community: Reach out to local community centers or theaters that might have workshops or programs for aspiring filmmakers. This can also be a way to find others interested in acting or filmmaking.
5. Plan Your Cast and Crew
- Start thinking about who you’d want to work with. Consider your friends, classmates, or family members who might be interested in acting or helping with the production.
- Write down character descriptions and the types of actors you think would fit the roles.
6. Get Creative with Filming
- Basic Camera Access: Even without a phone, you might have access to a camera through a family member, a friend, or your school. If not, start by story boarding your film ideas until you can access a camera.
- Stop-Motion Animation: If you don't have a camera, you could try making short stop-motion films using a simple camera or webcam, capturing images frame by frame.
7. Build a Portfolio
- Start small by creating short films or storyboards that you can later show to others. As you build more projects, you’ll have a portfolio to share when opportunities arise.
8. Network and Learn
- Attend local film festivals, workshops, or events where you can meet other filmmakers, learn from them, and showcase your work.
Getting started is all about using the resources you have, being creative, and consistently working towards your goals.
Best wishes
Great question! Starting a journey in movie directing and writing without a phone is definitely possible, and there are several ways to get started:
1. Use Available Resources
- Library Access: Use public libraries to access computers, which you can use for writing scripts, researching, and watching tutorial videos on filmmaking.
- Notebook/Journal: Keep a notebook where you can jot down ideas, sketch scenes, and draft scripts. This will help you stay organized and creative.
2. Learn the Basics
- Books and Online Resources: Borrow books from the library on screenwriting, directing, and filmmaking. You can also use the library's internet access to find free online courses and tutorials on platforms like YouTube, Coursera, or Khan Academy.
- Watch Films: Study films to understand different directing styles, story structures, and techniques. Take notes on what you like and how you might do things differently.
3. Write and Develop Stories
- Start by writing short scripts. Think about the stories you want to tell, the characters, and the settings.
- Experiment with different genres and themes to find your style.
4. Collaborate with Others
- School Projects: If you’re in school, join any drama or film-related clubs. You can work on school projects or pitch ideas for short films to your classmates.
- Local Community: Reach out to local community centers or theaters that might have workshops or programs for aspiring filmmakers. This can also be a way to find others interested in acting or filmmaking.
5. Plan Your Cast and Crew
- Start thinking about who you’d want to work with. Consider your friends, classmates, or family members who might be interested in acting or helping with the production.
- Write down character descriptions and the types of actors you think would fit the roles.
6. Get Creative with Filming
- Basic Camera Access: Even without a phone, you might have access to a camera through a family member, a friend, or your school. If not, start by story boarding your film ideas until you can access a camera.
- Stop-Motion Animation: If you don't have a camera, you could try making short stop-motion films using a simple camera or webcam, capturing images frame by frame.
7. Build a Portfolio
- Start small by creating short films or storyboards that you can later show to others. As you build more projects, you’ll have a portfolio to share when opportunities arise.
8. Network and Learn
- Attend local film festivals, workshops, or events where you can meet other filmmakers, learn from them, and showcase your work.
Getting started is all about using the resources you have, being creative, and consistently working towards your goals.
Best wishes
Loved reading this, thanks!
Noah
Of course!
Chinyere Okafor
Howard Pierceall CEC, CCE WCEC
Chef, Chef Instructor, Business owner
99
Answers
Sun City, Arizona
Updated
Howard’s Answer
Why do you need a phone?
Just be creative and use the resources you have access to.
Use school or library computers. Paper and pencil to write your stories and ideas.
Your creativity and hard work are what will get you noticed. Not your phone.
But at some point, you will need a phone to communicate and get offers.
Good luck. Do not make excuses for why you cannot do something. Find a way to do it anyway.
Ask for help from your school, teachers, and family.
Just be creative and use the resources you have access to.
Use school or library computers. Paper and pencil to write your stories and ideas.
Your creativity and hard work are what will get you noticed. Not your phone.
But at some point, you will need a phone to communicate and get offers.
Good luck. Do not make excuses for why you cannot do something. Find a way to do it anyway.
Ask for help from your school, teachers, and family.
Lirio Delgado
201
Answers
Phoenix, Arizona
Updated
Lirio’s Answer
Develop Your Skills: Study filmmaking, take courses, and analyze films.
Create a Network: Join local film groups, collaborate with others, and use online resources.
Start Small: Write scripts, create short films with available equipment, and participate in community projects.
Gain Experience: Volunteer, intern, and build a portfolio.
Get Feedback and Improve: Share your work, seek feedback, and continuously improve.
Build a Presence: Create a website or blog and network with industry professionals.
Casting and Production: Use local talent, organize your projects, and manage your budget.
Create a Network: Join local film groups, collaborate with others, and use online resources.
Start Small: Write scripts, create short films with available equipment, and participate in community projects.
Gain Experience: Volunteer, intern, and build a portfolio.
Get Feedback and Improve: Share your work, seek feedback, and continuously improve.
Build a Presence: Create a website or blog and network with industry professionals.
Casting and Production: Use local talent, organize your projects, and manage your budget.
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