Low-budget filmmaking tip #115
If you must use a sprinkler to simulate rain, position it high enough so it doesn’t look like someone’s peeing on your actors.
Low-budget filmmaking tip #93
If an effect demonstration is going to make noise, warn people ahead of time so they don’t freak out and think something’s gone wrong. Freaking out should be avoided. (thank you, Brian!)
Low-budget filmmaking tip #80
Before you do stunts or other physically demanding action, take a few minutes to stretch and limber up. There’s a reason zombie hunters do it!
Low-budget filmmaking tip #2
Rehearse any physical effect or stunt. Film the rehearsals in case you need some handy pickup footage. If people are rehearsing a physical effect or stunt in costume, even better. After a half dozen rehearsals, you may find that you have the footage you need, with everyone relaxed and focused during shooting. But that’s just a bonus. Rehearse the crazy stuff regardless.
This means falls, tumbles, stumbles, rolls, and jumps.
Sometimes when you film the practices, you can get better energy from the shot than the actual take. Sometimes after practice, they can be tired.
Thank you Justin for this! I had forgotten who told it to me until I saw it in some behind-the-scenes footage from “Flesh of my Flesh”.