Glossary

Film Title: The title you use during shooting should be considered a working title only. Remember that you can always change the title during shooting or editing if you decide that another title might be more appropriate

Synopsis: An outline of your film in 500 words or less. The synopsis should cover the central action in the film (without giving away any secrets vital to the viewer’s enjoyment) as well as explaining the main themes and issues covered, and why these themes and issues are important. Remember that the synopsis serves as an advertisement for your film; do your best to sell the film to as wide an audience as possible.

Initial Script: The script you have written for the film before you begin shooting. The script might change as you begin filming, but it nevertheless serves as an important guide

Proposed Characters: The list of characters to feature in your film and their role in the story.

Time Plan: A timeline for the making of your film from beginning to end. The various steps in your timeline will typically follow the order below:

Research: Once you have decided on the theme of your film, you will need to choose the main characters, decide on suitable locations for shooting, sketch out an initial script, and decide what additional features (e.g. music) your film may need.

Script: Exchange opinions with the team members about the initial script. This script will remain provisional, and will likely be subjected to many changes (large and small) as shooting proceeds.

Shooting: Try to set a reasonable time-frame for shooting, one which allows you to take enough shots to allow you to get the most out of editing, but not so many that you have no idea where to start.

Sound Recording: Write out a script for the voiceover (if any) and record it in your voice or any other voice you choose (and include any music you may want to add).

Editing: This is the most important stage in the film-making process. Review the shots you have taken choose those which best suit your purposes. Edit them down so that only the most essential content remains, and remember to mix in the voiceover and/or any music you wish to accompany your images.

Suggestions related to Shooting: Any general advice to the cameraperson on how you want her to move the camera, as well as specific recommendations for individual scenes.

Suggestions related to Editing: Any general advice to the editor on what you want your film to capture, as well as specific recommendations for individual scenes, transitions between scenes etc.

Suggestions related to Sound: Any general or specific advice for the sound editor on the use of sound/music in your film.