Budget

Budget should be something you manage and keep within a certain number. You don’t want to spend money on things – particularly things that could be done for free. Budget in film is usually spent on location, equipment, talent, crew, lighting, wardrobe, and hair, and makeup. I’ve found ways around that as you can see from other sections of this course.

Most importantly, pick a number that you can afford. I’ve shot a ton of videos with zero budget aside from things like my editing software and my camera. So don’t feel obligated to spend money when you just don’t have to.

Your budget is going to be specific to your idea. If it’s an important thing to have a shot of you walking down the street in red shoes, and you need red shoes, then their cost needs to be in the budget. I would recommend saving your budget for things that are to buy them a coffee when the shoot is done or during a break. They are technically working for you for free.

Since your costs will be unique to you, you don’t need a template. Just write down what you’d like to spend, and make sure you stay inside that budget. Keep receipts (take pictures of them!) and write down everything you spend. Stay organized.