Budgeting Research 

 

When budgeting a short film, there is a large degree of give and take. The first time you budget, you should include everything that feels 'essential' - some of which you will have to pay for and some of which you will get for free. The budget will be a constantly changing document, insomuch as essentials become redefined, amazing deals come up and certain elements prove to be too expensive. Of course, there comes a point, when you have raised all the cash and made all the deals that you possibly can, when you have to decide to go-ahead with what you already have.

Elements that you should include in your budget are:

• Cast and Crew - you might not have to pay anyone, but make sure you clarify this early on. If you are not paying crew then it is customary to offer to cover their expenses. Note - funded films generally require the equity minimum pay for cast and particularly crew.

• Travel – an unavoidable cost.

• Catering – food is not to be underestimated, if you can feed your team well they will be much happier to work for you.

• Location - it depends where you are shooting, but again make sure that this is thoroughly researched ahead of time.

• Camera and Lights 

• Stock -

• Insurance 

• Post-production and Marketing - important areas, most first-time filmmakers do not budget adequately.