Can you make a short film by yourself?

You can absolutely make a short film by yourself! If you have a smartphone, use it along with a single location and maybe one or two actors to tell a simple yet compelling story.

Is a 30-minute film a short film?

By the accounts of most film festivals, a 30-minute film is technically a short film. That being said, most festivals – where the majority of short films are screened – look to maximize their programming, which means prioritizing shorter films. These same festivals typically max out at 40 minutes for eligible short films, so do what you can to tell the best story possible in the shortest amount of time.

What are the rules of a short film?

There are no hard and fast rules to making a short film. However, you do want to simplify the storytelling process to offset the shorter amount of time you have to share it with your audience. Subplots typically are cut in favor of economy of time with short films.

How to Make a Short Film in Six Simple Steps

Male crew member on the set of a short film

Author: Anne Russell

Last updated: Oct 23, 2022

Before coming to Full Sail, Anne produced documentary and reality television. Anne Russell joined Full Sail University in 2010 and was promoted to Program Director for the Film Bachelor of Science degree program in 2012. During her three years with that program, she oversaw the transition from emulsion film to digital format, launched the Student Production Office, and an additional Foley room for film students. In 2015, she was asked to spearhead the new MFA program in Film Production.
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How to Make a Short Film in Six Simple Steps