The first thing most established producers and other industry professionals will ask you: “What’s the point of your story?” As a group of filmmakers spend time shooting a film, they might lose sight of the bigger picture and lose the ability to see how the rest of the world might perceive and understand their film. Be sure your story is clear and relatively easy to follow.

2. Seek the best possible talent you can get.

When you hire actors, crew members, or performing artists for your production, make sure that they are the best candidates for the job. Hiring good talent does not necessarily mean you have to hire professional actors—non-actors can exhibit plenty of raw talent too.

3. Stick to a budget

Whether your budget is $1,000 or $100,000, stick to it. Talented filmmakers make highly acclaimed films within any and all financial constraints. Asking people for help can never hurt if you want to make your film as cheap as possible.

4. Avoid common mistakes

Avoid obvious mistakes such as bad acting, visible mistakes in footage, and bad sound. Plan and collaborate early to ensure your film goes smoothly.

5. Get your clearances out of the way

Simply put, a film that is not cleared is not distributable. You will not be able to screen your film at festivals or commercially distribute it if your film infringes upon the rights of others. Avoid this mess by doing the leg work early. Do not wait until you are four months into production to find out that your film title is owned by someone else. Do not forget to include music in your cleared material. Borrowing commercial music is not acceptable and must be accounted for. Try to use royalty-free music or purchase stock music.

6. Assembling your package together

If you have a short screenplay you want to shoot, the best thing to do to market yourself is to make a little package or kit and distribute it to anyone who can help. Do polish your verbal pitch to sell your movie to someone in a concise, compelling way. Also, don’t forget to create a website. 

7. Aim high

Even obscure feature films and short films win acclaim. You never know what ground you might break with your unique film.

8. Be grateful

Take care of your actors and crew members—don’t cheap out and give them cold, leftover pizza. Feed your workers well. Show appreciation for their efforts. Try to include the names of all people when making your end credits. Showing your appreciation in this small way might lead to them wanting to help you again.