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Filmmaking Hacks That Make Life Easier

May 22, 2015

 

 

Hey Tongalers! We’re all about providing you with tips for creating high-quality content efficiently. So, here’s a list of resources with camera/filmmaking hacks!


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First things first…what’s a “hack?”

 

A hack (sometimes referred to as a “life-hack”) is a clever solution to a tricky problem. With that definition in mind, a filmmaking-hack can be a clever solution to a filmmaking problem, a DIY alternative to buying expensive equipment, or just a fun little trick to try out.

 

Instructables:

 

Instructables has a large collection of crowd-sourced (yay!) camera how-tos with detailed pictures and descriptions that are sure to catch the interest of both beginners and seasoned pros. If you’re up for a fun challenge, we foundthis post explaining how to use a TI Calculator to create anIntervalometer to use for time-lapseVideo.

 

Griffin Hammondand Indy MogulYouTube Channels:

 

These YouTube channels have some truly awesome Videos with lots of great filmmaking advice as well as hacks. Griffin Hammond, Erik Beck and Justin Johnson have travelled extensively and have tons of tips for filmmakers who are on the go. They also have fun hacks for creating special FX like these ones from Paranormal Activity.

P.S. Big shout-out to Tongal legends, The Indie Machines who are the creators of the “Indy Mogul” channel.  

 

No Film School:

 

This fantastic resource has an entire section dedicated to filmmaking hacks, including this one on how to make your own inexpensive lens filters out of Pringles cans, stockings or lingerie.

 

SLR Lounge:

 

This site is a great resource for all things photography-related. They have a ton of practical tips like theseDIY lighting setups as well as insightful business tips.

Sproutvideo Blog:

This blog has some cool articles comparing resources such as this one on differentGo-Pro and Drone Models. Their article Making More With Less has some unique tutorials, including one that teaches you how to build a microphone for $9.

 

Lifehacker:

 

This site is great for all things hack, including a section dedicated to video production! Here’s a video on making your own portable green screen. There’s also this article with suggestions of free software you can use for storyboarding and writing screenplays.  

 

Digital Camera World:

 

This resource is fantastic for photography and capturing still shots. This post on how to make your own LED light ring for less than $20 is particularly cool.

 

Wonder How To:

 

This site has an extensive cinematography section too, complete with videos and articles. It covers a lot, ranging from articles on getting the most out of specific cameras to this one on how to build a tripod out of a rubber band.

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