How do you become a film producer? All you have to do is make a movie of your own. Sounds difficult? Well, it’s really not that hard if you have the right training under your belt. You also need to use the right film making equipment, even if that includes using makeshift dollies.
Last week, we covered Film Making Motion Tips – 3 Types of Camera Movement Equipment. This led to other types of questions from our students, such as “how to make a movie” and “how to make a short film” using DIY film making equipment.
Why? Well, for un-established film producers, Steadicams, jibs and dollies can be overwhelmingly expensive. So, we’re going to walk you through how to make a movie using DIY makeshift dollies.
HOW TO CREATE YOUR OWN DIY MAKESHIFT DOLLIES
Today, we’re covering truck shots AKA dolly shots for this version of DIY film making equipment. Of all the camera movement equipment around, we probably get questions about dolly shots most often. Try running, jogging, even walking alongside your camera subject during a moving shot. Your shot will come out bouncy. This is not how to become a director, the right way.
Is it your goal to get that great shot as you dolly away or toward your subject as you truck along beside the subject? If so, you need a smooth ride to get a smooth shot. And, the keyword here is ride. The DIY makeshift dollies below will get you those smooth shots.
SKATEBOARD AS MAKESHIFT CAMERA DOLLY
Skateboards give you the mobility you need on smooth surfaces. However, certain surfaces will cause them to be a bit noisy.
WHEELCHAIRS AS MAKESHIFT DOLLIES
A wheelchair is relative quiet and provides a smooth ride. You can either push the wheelchair as it hold the camera, or ride in it as you hold the camera.
CARTS, WAGONS OR ROLLING DESKS AS DIY MAKESHIFT DOLLIES
You can generally find these items in kitchens and home offices. They have limited uses for truck shots. Also, try not to deal with DIY dollies that have rotating wheels. These can be a bit difficult to manipulate.
Bicycles, Roller Blades and Other Sports Equipment as DIY Dollies
If they have wheels, they can be used as camera dollies. Just be sure to check the noise levels to ensure they aren’t too noisy when you make a film.
A CAR AS A MAKESHIFT CAMERA DOLLY
Cars are probably the most common makeshift camera dollies around. They have the speed you need. Plus, they give you versatility. You can sit on the hood, roof, trunk, even hang out of the door or open hatchback. And, if you use a hybrid or electric car, you’re almost guaranteed a quiet ride with very little noise.
HOW DO YOU BECOME A FILM PRODUCER IN A COMPETITIVE INDUSTRY?
The film production industry is extremely competitive when it comes to film careers. Not everyone becomes famous or produces that smash box office hit. So, how do you ensure that you have what it takes to compete in this industry?
Great film careers begin with quality education from a qualified film school. F.I.R.S.T. Institute offers a Film and Video Production program where students learn the fundamentals of how to make a movie. Get the knowledge and hands-on experience you need from F.I.R.S.T. Institute today.
Check out our Video and Film Program.
