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Q&A for How to Make a Found Footage Film

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How can I produce a found-footage film that feels real?

João Homem
Film & Media Industry Expert
João Homem is a Professional Colorist and Film & Media Industry Expert based in Vancouver, British Columbia. As the Co-Founder and Creative Director of Escuro Studios, a Canadian full-service production company, he oversees creative development and both pre- and post-production for diverse projects, including music videos, commercials, films, and TV series. He is also the CEO and founder of Cromatic Elements, an online asset store for filmmakers that supports emerging professionals by providing a platform to share high-quality tools, insights, and assets across multiple creative fields. Originally created to develop filmic assets for personal use, Cromatic has grown into a community-driven space where up-and-coming creatives can access resources designed by top industry professionals. João’s commitment to fostering a collaborative environment and offering accessible, authentic tools has positioned Cromatic as a valuable resource for filmmakers around the world.

João Homem

Film & Media Industry Expert

Expert Answer

First, you have to create a believable story and setting for your found footage movie to feel real. Then, research and watch other good found-footage movies so you have an idea how it works and what made them successful. Then write a good script with relatable characters. Film with a shaky camera from a first-person view with natural light. Make and capture spontaneous moments, and edit the clip roughly. Remember that your goal here is to make your film feel like it's real life and not from a polished production.

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Question

How many characters are In the movie?

Community Answer

Your choice. Just remember that too many can be confusing and too few can get boring.

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Question

If the person holding the camera were to be killed and then time passed, could the camera be picked up by one of the other members of the group?

Community Answer

You could definitely have them die, then let the film roll for a couple seconds, and have a friend or someone else important to the film pick it up.

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Question

Can I use Windows Movie Maker?

SyxKDFyre

Community Answer

Yes, Windows Movie Maker can be a great place to start. Don't forget to save often! The older the version you use, the more likely it is to crash at random times. This goes for any program.

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Can you use a phone to film without it looking worse?

Hannah Madden

Community Answer

Definitely! Most smart phones have pretty good cameras nowadays, so filming on a phone shouldn't be a problem. It will probably add more realism to the story, too.

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Found footage movies have been done to death, and no longer have the advantage of the Blair Witch Project where since it was the first of its kind everyone believed it. How do I keep my movie fresh?

Hannah Madden

Community Answer

Explore other genres beside horror. Most found footage films are horror-based, but you could make a sci-fi or apocalyptical one, a thriller, or even an action movie.

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