Filmmaking is a beautiful art, but as an actor, it’s often the last thing on your mind. While you’re focused on perfecting your craft and waiting for the next role, creating your own productions might not seem like a priority. However, taking the initiative to dive into filmmaking can open up new opportunities and put you in control of your own creative journey.
This year, I had the incredible opportunity to be a part of the Megacon Indie Horror Filmmaking Panel again this year, and what an experience it was! Being surrounded by so many passionate actors, filmmakers, and creatives was truly inspiring, and I was honored to be there, offering advice, sharing stories, and helping encourage others on their filmmaking journey.
The indie filmmaking scene is truly something special, particularly within indie horror. It’s a space where creativity knows no bounds, offering endless opportunities to bring bold, chilling, and thought-provoking stories to life. Scary movies will always have a special place in my heart, and it’s always a joy to see others light up with the same passion and excitement for this genre that I do!
One message I hope everyone took away from the panel is that the only thing truly holding us back from making films is ourselves. Whether you’re an actor or a filmmaker, the key to bringing your ideas to life lies in your willingness to take that first step.
As an actor, I understand how easy it is to focus solely on the craft of acting. After all, you want to hone your skills, give amazing performances, and wait for the perfect opportunities to come your way. But here’s the truth: you can’t always wait for opportunities to find you. You must be willing to go the extra mile, create your own opportunities, and yes, create your own productions.
The indie film world is full of DIY possibilities. There are so many ways actors and filmmakers can take control of their own careers, and it’s all about having the drive, the passion, and the courage to start creating. If you’re feeling stuck, remember that creating your own projects is the perfect way to break through.
To help inspire you, here are 5 Golden Tips for Actors Looking to Create Their Own Productions:
1. Start Small, Think Big
The beauty of indie filmmaking is that you don’t need a huge budget to start making your mark. Begin with small projects that you can manage on your own or with a small team of like-minded individuals. Whether it’s a short film, a web series, or a creative video project, starting small gives you the space to learn, grow, and make mistakes while still building your portfolio.
The phone in your pocket is a great tool you have to start creating, right now!
2. Collaborate with Like-minded Creatives
You don’t have to go it alone either. Surround yourself with passionate people who are equally excited to create. Look for other actors, writers, directors, and crew members who share your vision. Collaboration fosters creativity and helps elevate the quality of your projects. Sometimes the best ideas come from bouncing concepts off others.
I’m incredibly grateful for meeting Robert Massetti of Fear Film Studios. The friendship we’ve built while growing our portfolios together over the years has been truly unmatched. We continue to inspire and motivate each other, constantly pushing each other to keep creating and turning our dreams into reality. Always find people who not only want to create, but also want to lift you up and see you succeed on your acting journey as well.
3. Learn the Basics of Filmmaking
Even if your focus is acting, having a solid understanding of the entire filmmaking process is invaluable. It’s not just about learning your lines and performing; it’s about understanding how a film set operates as a whole. Take the time to learn about the different roles on set – from the director to the camera crew, production design to sound, and how each contributes to bringing the story to life.
Understanding how to read a script from a director’s perspective is key to interpreting your character within the larger vision of the film. The more you know about the technical and creative aspects of filmmaking, the better you’ll be able to collaborate with the team and bring your best performance. It also makes you more versatile as an actor, because you can adapt to the needs of the production, be it adjusting to changes on the fly or communicating more effectively with the director. Plus, it gives you confidence on set, knowing how to navigate the environment and understanding the bigger picture.
4. Write Your Own Script
If you’ve got a story to tell, why not write it? Screenwriting may feel daunting at first, but there are plenty of resources, courses, and software to help you get started. Your story doesn’t have to be epic or complex, it just needs to be yours. Writing your own script allows you to play a major role in the creation of your own project.
Personally, I haven’t delved into screenwriting yet, as I’ve been focused on collaborating with others who have their own stories to share. However, I do plan to take it on eventually! What’s most important is to keep creating, especially when your filmmaking friends are tied up with other projects, leaving you with time to explore your own ideas.
5. Don’t Wait for Permission: Take Action
One of the most important lessons I’ve learned in my creative journey is that you don’t need permission to start creating. Too often, as actors and filmmakers, we wait for someone to give us the green light… A casting director to choose us for the perfect role or a producer to offer us the perfect project. But here’s the thing: if you’re waiting for someone else to make the decision for you, you could be waiting forever!
The world of filmmaking and acting is fast-paced, and opportunities don’t always come knocking when you expect them to. Rather than waiting for an invitation, take action and make things happen for yourself. Start writing your own scripts, filming short projects, or producing content with the resources you have. Don’t wait for the “perfect” moment to start. Sometimes, the best projects come from the willingness to take risks and experiment!
By starting your own projects, you are creating your own opportunities. You don’t have to wait for someone to cast you when you can cast yourself. You don’t have to wait for someone to give you a script when you can write your own. The power of creation is in your hands, and the more you take action, the more momentum you build.
The world of indie filmmaking, in particular, is built on the passion and determination of those willing to push forward without permission. You may not have a big budget or a massive team, but that shouldn’t stop you from bringing your ideas to life. With a little creativity, some resources, and a lot of drive, you’d be amazed at what you can achieve.
Remember, that little phone in your pocket is a powerful tool for creating amazing content. Whether it’s skits, videos, photos, social media posts, or even full-length films if you’re up for the challenge, there’s no limit to what you can produce with the right creativity and determination!
So, don’t let the fear of not having the “perfect” project or opportunity stop you. Start creating today, and you’ll discover just how much you can accomplish when you take the reins of your own career!
Being a part of the Megacon Indie Horror Filmmaking Panel was a reminder of why we create and why we need to push beyond our own limits. The indie film world is wide open, and the only thing holding you back is your own fear or hesitation. If you have a story to tell, an idea to explore, or a project in mind, start today. Don’t wait for someone to give you the green light, take the reins and make it happen!
Your future is always in your hands. The journey may not always be easy, but it’s yours to shape. So, get out there, start shooting, and bring your vision to life. There’s no better time than now! If you need some extra inspiration, check out this video where Robert and I discuss going all-in as creatives and embracing the power of taking action!
Have you ever created your own film project? Share your story in the comments below! I’d love to hear your experiences and any challenges you faced along the way.
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