Making an independent film is a huge project, and conventional wisdom has it that you: shoot your film, cut your film and then, after that’s all done, you try to sell your film. However, marketing your film should begin during the production phase. But who has the time? That’s just it you don’t.
So…find some people who do. Marketing is a priority, but it should not be your priority. You need to beg, borrow and trade favors to find a few key people who can stay on top of your marketing needs while your film is in production. Ideally, you want to make the entire production process a marketing process too. Below are a list of five key things you do not want to forget to do, or better yet, that you do not want to forget to find someone else to do for you.
1. Find A Photographer
My own experience in film acquisitions has taught me that even some high-level productions forget to finish production with some great still photography and I cannot emphasize enough how important this aspect will be down the road. You will need photography for every aspect of you promotion and you want it to be quality product. Basically, you need a professional photographer, or somebody who shoots like a professional. You do not need a photographer for the full duration of your shoot, but you should ensure that you have one for the most photogenic scenes. As well, you want to make sure you have compelling photos of all your lead actors in costume and in character. Brief your photographer on the film’s story so they can help you tell it visually. Don’t put off taking stills until the end and don’t assume that it’s something you can go back to later ‘ you can’t. The best shots are going to happen during your shoot, so make sure you have somebody around who can capture them.
