Google Drives

The internet is a great resource for your film making. Not only is it full of information at your disposable, you can also communicate with each other synchronously and asynchronously. I'm going to show you how to use that to your advantage through Google Drives.

Last semester I was introduced to Google Drives over a production assignment. We were able to edit the same documents at the same time and upload files for each other to view and edit. I decided that this would be a valuable resource in my future projects.

With Google Drives you have up to 15GB worth of storage. You can share the folders and responsibilities between several accounts. You can set permissions to "can view", "can edit", and "can comment" for all the files and folders.

Through Google Docs, you are able to edit, view, and comment on the latest version of the script at all times. Through an Add-on called Screenplay Formatter, you are able to type your script up in standard screenplay format, similar to programs like CeltX.

You are able to set up electronic spreadsheets to stay up to date with your crew, cast, and props list and all edit it simultaneously or separately. It has all the features of Microsoft Excel and such spreadsheet programs. It's is easy to pick up if you've had experience with spreadsheets before.

You are also able to upload pictures, videos, and various other files onto the drive. That way your main crew can have access to location scout pictures, actor headshots, resumes, audition videos, and etc.

The best part is, it's all free. Stay organized and up to date with all your filming documents through Google Drive. (Note: I'm not a sponsored spokesperson of Google, although I do think they are awesome. ["Blogger" ,however, IS supported by Google])

Resources

A lot of people don't realize the resources around them. Sometimes you just have to ask. Look for people who specialize in the area of what you need. And ask them. If you need artwork, look for a graphic design major. If you need people to do stunts and not act, look for stunt groups, martial arts places. If you need attack dogs, look for dog training academies, K-9 Units.

You might be thinking "Oh, they won't agree to help" or "I don't have money to pay them.". Sometimes you just have to ask. You have a lot more to offer than you think. You are offering them publicity, a chance to be on a film, and things they can put on their portfolio. Sell your product, and make them want to support your project.

One of my friends needed to burn a house down for a DF2 project of his. He contacted several fire departments to find a abandoned house they could burn down. The firefighters were extremely co-operative. They found a house and were able to burn it down. It served as good practice for new firefighters. All of this was done for free.

In this video DevinSuperTramp talks about how he gets funding and help on his videos [3:15]. Also has cute puppies!

Think of what you need. Who would be best for that job. And talk to them! Explore and weigh your options. Think of who your project appeals to, how it can benefit them, and ways you can exploit that. So go out there, and see what resources are at your disposal. You'll never know if you don't look~

The Paperboy Update

Hey guys! Exciting news, "The Paperboy" was just just chosen to be produced. I'm am working with some very hardworking and dedicated people. It's great to have people so excited for my film. I will be posting updates and fun stuff for you in the coming months. Prizes, behind the scenes, test videos, and much more!

The Paperboy was a pitch I had in my DF2 class. It passed the first round but wasn't chosen by the producers. Like I said in my previous post about pitching, you have to be ready to be rejected. You need to stay confident in your idea, and continue to refine it!

DF3 Pitch "The PaperBoy"

Hey everyone, it's finally ready. Here is the pitch video for my senior thesis project.



It has not been confirmed for production. It has to win the class and professor's approval. I'm competing against a lot of great film ideas so wish me luck!

(P.S. All clips and tracks belong to their respected parties, I don't not own any of the clips or music used. This is video purely for educational purposes, not profit. Thanks for watching!)

Zack Dunlop Music Video

Hey everyone still working on my pitch video. Hang tight. In the meanwhile, here's one of the most recent projects I've helped on.

It's definitely one of the biggest projects I've worked on. I had fun throughout. I don't even listen to country and I thought the song was catchy, but maybe I'm just bias ;] who knows.

Non Dialogue Short Film

I'm currently working on a pitch video for my undergraduate thesis project, so hopefully I can reveal it to you guys in 3 weeks. It should be fun!

But in the meantime, here is one of the non-dialogue narratives I made for my digital film class! Hope you like it! (Contains slightly crude humor)

BlenderTexturePaint Tutorial followup (Texture paint with 3ds files)

Hey guys just doing a quick follow up of last week's tutorial. Some people had questions about the model. So I go over briefly how to obtain a 3ds model, set it up, and how to use the 2d paint feature.

TexturePaintv2 from Thien Ngo on Vimeo.