Independent filmmaking is undoubtedly a lot of fun, but it is also immensely challenging at the same time. There are a lot of tasks to tackle and steps to complete before you can transform your idea into something the audience can watch. The process starts with brainstorming for ideas for your next project.
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Before you can have a script, worry about lighting or do post-processing, you need to have an idea to begin with. Brainstorming for ideas is a big hurdle, but these next few tips we are about to discuss in this article will help you get a set of fresh ideas for your next project without a problem.
Get in the Mood
Every filmmaker has his or her thing. I know a friend who’d put on her yoga pants and meditate before she started writing down a lot of brilliant ideas. Others may have different habits.
It’s all about getting in the mood. It is much easier to find ideas that work when you’re in a certain mood. When you’re in a good mood and generally feeling positive, your brain can imagine more things more vividly and you’ll end up with more ideas to work with.
It works the other way around, too. A lot of successful short films with a sadder tone actually started with the filmmakers writing ideas when they were feeling sad. You can use this method to develop your own ideas. The most important thing is to choose an approach that works for you.
Make It a Habit
I agree that there are a lot of great ideas that came from ‘eureka’ moments. These ideas became the remarkable short films we know today. That said, the majority of filmmakers – the successful ones at least – actually make brainstorming and writing down ideas a habit.
You find ideas from everywhere, often at odd times too. Don’t hesitate to stop what you’re doing and take the time to write those ideas down as they come to you. At the end of each day, take a look at your notes and add details to them.
As you begin writing every day, you will find exploring and developing ideas to be easier and easier. You’re turning brainstorming into a habit. At this point, you will never run out of ideas to turn into short films that audiences love.
Watch More Films
Just like writers get better by reading more, filmmakers get better by watching more movies. Hundreds – or even thousands – of new films and movies are introduced every day. Thanks to the internet, it is now easier than ever to see them.
There is a lot to learn from the creativity of others. You should never copy others’ ideas, but you can always find new premises and stories to develop. You can also learn new techniques and ways to tell stories from the work of other filmmakers.
So, are you ready for your next project? Use these tips to help you find great ideas and start developing them into amazing stories to tell.