by Mille Tappe

Created on: June 01, 2008   Last Updated: June 19, 2008

As a filmmaker who has made many short films, on both large and small scales, I love the fact that in its simplest form, filmmaking only requires a camera. Nothing more. Now, you're probably thinking "what, no computer?". Fair enough: a computer can come in handy, as can lights and sound recording gear, and I'll talk about all of that. But at the most basic level of production, you can design your shoot around what's called "in-camera editing", so that when you're finished shooting, you've got a finished film! Never mind iMovie or Moviemaker or Final Cut Pro. With careful planning, one person and a camera can create as compelling a movie as a large crew and truckloads of gear. I've done this in video and in Super 8, and it is very rewarding. If you have never made a film before, consider borrowing a camera from friends or family before investing in equipment that you may discover you do not fully enjoy.

Your idea may not work with such a stripped down approach, however. In that case, the second-most important addition to the equipment list would have to be a computer with some form of editing software installed. Editing after the shoot enables you to shoot coverage (various angles and frames of the same scene) and then combine these alternatives to shape the audience's view of your film. Editing on your computer enables you to experiment with how shots look together, how long they should remain on the screen, and so forth. This is how you will create suspense, establish intimacy - whatever works best for your film. Most computers come with some basic form of editing software installed, such as iMovie or Moviemaker. For more options and features, try a free trial of one of the more advanced programs like Final Cut Pro or Adobe Premiere.

The next addition to the list depends on the type of camera you are using, but it will either be sound recording equipment, or lighting equipment. Your camera may have sound recording ability, built-in, sufficient for your film. Or the camera may be adaptable to the lighting conditions you'll be shooting in. Decide which is your greater need based on the camera's abilities and the film you are making: better sound or better lighting. Or you may determine that you need additional equipment in both of these categories. You are less likely to be able to borrow sound recording or lighting equipment from family or friends, so you might want to check out the local film co-operative or artist-run centre and rent the equipment from them. Usually the rates will be better than those of commercial suppliers.

There are endless other items that can be used to make movies. Check out the online catalogues of suppliers. But the basics? That'd be you and a camera.

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