Many Independent film makers struggle to make money from their projects - not only is it a risky industry where many new movies flop on a regular basis but also down to the fact that initial funding for a new film is not investigated out properly.
Obviously the best way to make money from film making is to actually sell the film - if possible on screen or via DVDs etc.. but to do this, it has to get noticed by a distributor. Big names are always going to be easily seen by them but for new movies from people not hugely known in the industry (yet), its a fight to get the movie recognised.
The most common way for independent film makers cover their initial outlay on producing the movie is to fund the project personally. This involves saving up over a large amount of time or by taking personal loans. This however is never a good idea because after paying back interest on loans etc.. generally means the filmmaker is out of pocket (unless its a big hit which is rare).
A better way to approach funding rather than banking on loans is to find a funding bodies designed to support or average filmmaker but be warned - they will only accept strong applications and in depth knowledge in what you are doing will be essential, they will spot people who haven’t done their research. Scottish Screen, the UK Film Council and Film4 are examples of these and regularly provide start up filmmakers with grants and other schemes etc.
The most ideal way of course is to approach the bigger companies to get your film funded or a sponsorship deal with little risk to yourself. They will expect something in return though like return on the investment, use of your services etc.. amongst other things, so before going down this route, you need to know what you are prepared to offer them.
Once funding is sorted and the film produced, other avenues to sell the movie is another way to encourage a better return from the film. As mentioned before, DVDs and cinema are the most common but many filmmakers have been drawn to the online marketing like paying per download and selling DVDs on their web sites etc.. Teaser trailers using social networking sites are also a good way to get the movie noticed.
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