help with making your film
There's more to filmmaking than sitting in a folding chair with your name stencilled on it, shouting through a loudhailer. Even Spielberg had a few lessons. And if you've never made a movie before, take a look at our tips for directors. And happy filming.
The hardest part, and the most important. Your story or idea can come from anywhere - it just needs to be based around the theme 'unite'. Try to give your film structure - even though it's only 60 seconds long, it still needs a beginning, middle and end. It might even help to storyboard it, so you know exactly how it's going to work.
equipment
You don't need a huge budget to make a well-produced film. Digital camcorders offer excellent video quality, but if you can't get hold of one, don't worry. Most digital cameras offer inbuilt video functions, and even the latest mobile phones can record video.
directing
Start filming your scene at least five seconds earlier than you need, so you've got plenty of time to play with when you're editing. Take time to compose each shot - experiment with low and high camera angles, but start with the camera at eye height. And shoot each scene at least once from further away - this is called a 'cover shot', which you can use if you run into problems with closer shots. Finally, remember the '180 degree rule'. Your camera should always shoot only from one side of the action you're filming - don't cross the imaginary line that runs through two actors talking. It will confuse the audience.
camera
Support your camera, either with a tripod or by leaning up against something solid. Shaky shooting is the number one way to make your film look amateurish. If you're using tracking shots, avoid jerks and bumps by attaching it to a set of wheels, like a pram or skateboard. And putting your camera in a netted bag is a good way of reducing shakes and jolts.
lighting
If you can work with sunlight, so much the better. If not, try and keep your scenes well lit. Replace bulbs with more powerful ones, and use reflectors to maximise light. There are three main types of light on a set: the Key light, which points at your subject; the Fill light, which fills the background, and softens harsh shadows; and the Back light, which points at your subject from behind.
For more help, have a look at www.exposure.co.uk/eejit/light
sound
Sound is really important as it carries a lot of the story. If you can, use external microphones - radio mics hidden in clothing are great, as are out-of-sight boom arms. If you're using your mobile phone to record sound, and can't fit a secondary microphone, try to keep dialogue to when your characters are near - otherwise, they could be drowned out by background noise.
