DIY: 5 Tips for Shooting a Music Video on a Budget
Shooting a music video is the best way to connect fans with your music. Fans of your tunes love to see music videos that pair with the band’s aesthetic and unique vision. Music videos are a lot of fun to shoot, but even the most seasoned filmmakers will agree that music videos are hard work.
Music videos are difficult to shoot because they require pooling together large groups of (sometimes unpaid) talent, backup dancers, and performers. You’ll also need to source props, scout and secure locations, and rent camera gear. Once you have these things and you’ve hired a director of photography, shoot days can be long and your videographer will need to complete a long shot list in a short amount of time. This process can be incredibly daunting.
That’s why we’ve compiled this list of 5 of our best tips to produce and shoot a music video while staying on time and within budget.
KEEP IT TO ONE OR TWO LOCATIONS
Renting locations or convincing someone to let you use their space for a music video can be tricky and expensive. When you are writing the treatment for your music video, challenge yourself to keep the scenes within one or two locations.
When scouting locations, check the space out to see if there is more than one location within the space to shoot.
You may be able to get 2 or more scene settings from one location if you do your homework. Soundstages or art studios make a great open space to install multiple sets and installations.
SHOOT FOR WIDER SHOTS
Shooting wider shots means that you’ll have to reset your gear less. Resets mean moving tripods, light stands, safe zones, and talent. Shoot for wider shots that mean you’ll need to reset less, saving you time and money.
CREATE A SHOT LIST TO STAY ON TIME AND BUDGET
Creating a detailed shot list and assigning someone to supervise your list will help you stay on task for your shoot day. Take the time to visualize how your music video will look and feel. Pre-plan ins and transitions between shots for a more cinematic approach. Visualizing and planning a shot list will help you make sure that you have every shot that you’ll need when it comes time to edit your footage.
COME PREPARED WITH APPROPRIATE LIGHTING GEAR
Lighting on set can be tricky. If you can, try to walk your location before arriving and start making a list of lighting equipment that you’ll want to have on hand for the shoot. At the very least you’ll need a Key light but we recommend bringing a fill light and a hair light as well. It’s always helpful to have some handheld options, like mini-LEDs or portable panels.
A softbox will be very helpful to have on set to help smooth shadows. Bring a large bounce for softening natural sunlight that pours in from doors and windows. Bring a few large black flags or black sheets to block natural light and reflections.
SOURCE PROPS & COSTUMING EARLY
Source your props and costuming early. You can ask around for specific items, check estate sales and thrift stores, or you can rent your outfit from a Halloween or costume store. Costume stores often carry props that will help set your scene as well.
Make a running prop list and refer to it often. Then start looking for these items when you’re shopping or start hunting online. Don’t wait til the last minute to try to source your outfits, there is nothing worse than that wig you need arriving just hours before you’re set to shoot.
READY TO START PRE-PRODUCTION ON YOUR MUSIC VIDEO?
The creative professionals at Spivey Media are ready to help you create a music video for your band. Whether small or large, we can help you craft an impressive music video that fits your band’s unique aesthetic and budget.
Contact us today and ask us how we can help you produce your next music video. We’ll sit down with you and create a music video concept and treatment and then we’ll get to work figuring out how to make it happen. Spivey Media is based in Norman, Oklahoma. We are ready to help you produce the next big thing!