How to raise money for your film project with a proposal

Micro-Budget Filmies Newsletter - SPRING EQUINOX

Happy soon-to-be Spring Equinox Filmies!

In this issue, we'll be focusing on the important task of securing funding for your documentary project. We'll walk you through how to write a persuasive documentary proposal that showcases your passion for the story and convinces commissioning editors to invest in your film. We'll also share some valuable insights from experienced documentary filmmakers on how to navigate the funding process.

But that's not all – we've got plenty more in store for you. We'll be featuring an exclusive interview with a top model who has navigated the film world, and plenty of tips and tricks, on how to snipe your colour grade from inspired content to royalty-free music. We'll cover it all. and an exclusive workshop "The Consciousness of Colour in Filmmaking", by Mark Wentworth. You'll learn plenty about the journey, creative process, and insights into the industry.

So sit back, grab a cup of coffee, and get ready to dive into the world of micro-budget filmmaking. We're excited to share this journey with you!

Key Insights

• Production Tips - Storytelling styles

• Fundraising - Find funding with a Documentary proposal

• Filmmaker Corner - Interview with Yash Ozbaris

• Podcast Conversations - Lindsay McAuley

• Creator Resources - Royalty-Free Music & Colour Grade Tips

• Docu-Spotlight - Searching For Sugarman

• Upcoming Events - 4 Festivals

• Collab Conner - Meetup & Colour Workshop

So let's begin...

Storytelling Styles

JOHN: Deciding to make a documentary film is only the beginning. In the pre-production process, you should decide what type of storytelling style you want to use. By doing this you can save yourself a lot of time in post.

Here are the classic storytelling styles you may want to consider using in telling your story:

1. Poetic - Non linear: creating a feeling, more than a truth.

2. Expository - Narrative based: takes you through the story.

3. Participatory - Part observational and expository: the filmmaker is part of the story.

4. Performative – Can use many different styles and personal stories to convey the message.

5. Observational- Watching the world around you, 'fly on the wall'.

6. Reflexive - Looking back on something with your eyes and sharing your POV.

There are sub-categories within each group, and no law says you can not mix the styles. The key to capturing your story on film is to have an idea of what style of documentary you want to tell before you start filming. It will help to keep your story on track.

Additionally, a documentary feel does not have to be 100% as it happens. You are free to create the moments and movements that help tell the story. A simple example would be, you observing your subject walking into her home, taking off her shoes, and putting them in a particular spot. Then she bows. Your camera was not rolling. You are free to ask to do that action again and gain coverage from different angles.

Remember, you are not creating a news broadcast. You are creating art!

How to Write a Documentary Proposal and Find Funding

RICHARD: "So, you want to make a documentary? Well, buckle up because it's going to cost you an arm and a leg! To get started, you need a killer proposal that will make investors throw their money at you like it's confetti."

First things first, what even is a documentary proposal? It's basically a document that explains every little detail about your film, from the story to the budget. It's like a map that will guide you to the land of riches (if you're lucky).

But let's not forget the purpose of this proposal: to convince investors to give you money. And let's be real, who wouldn't want to give their money to a bunch of strangers making a film? It's not like they have anything better to do with it, right?"

"So, make sure your proposal includes all the juicy details that will make investors salivate. Give them a taste of the story, the target audience, and the approach you're taking. And don't forget to throw in some bios of the important people involved. After all, who doesn't love a good bio?"

But most importantly, make sure your proposal includes a budget. Because let's face it, making a documentary isn't cheap. You'll need money for crew salaries, equipment, permits, and maybe even a few bribes (just kidding...or am I?).

Writing a documentary proposal is no laughing matter, but with a little bit of humor and a killer pitch, you just might be able to convince investors to fund your film. Good luck, and may the funding gods be ever in your favor!

What Exactly Is a Documentary Proposal?

"If you want to make a killer documentary that blows people's minds, you gotta give us the juicy deets. We're talking about the who, what, where, when, and why of your film. Who's gonna be in it? What's the story? Where will it be shot? When will it be done? And most importantly, why should anyone care? Oh, and don't forget the cash money. We need to know how much dough you're gonna drop to make this masterpiece happen. So bring on the proposal, and let's make movie magic happen!"

What Is the Purpose of a Documentary Proposal?

If you want to secure the necessary funding for your documentary film production, you need to have a solid proposal that impresses potential investors. This is crucial because filmmaking can be expensive, and even if you're not paying yourself, you still need to budget for expenses like crew salaries, equipment, and permits. To make sure you have everything you need to secure funding, it's important to create a well-crafted documentary proposal that outlines your vision and potential impact. This proposal will be your most important tool for getting investors on board with your project. One of the key aspects of pitching a movie is preparation, so if you land a pitch meeting, make sure to practice your pitch and anticipate questions ahead of time. This will ensure that you make a strong first impression and don't get caught off-guard. Think of a logline that describes your film in one sentence. This should grab the reader's attention and make them want to read more about your project.

A documentary proposal consists of nine parts.

Here is the fundamental outline for creating a documentary proposal.

1. Abstract: This is like the opening line of a pickup line - it needs to catch the investor's attention and make them want more. Think of it like a movie trailer, but for your proposal. The first page of your proposal should be the abstract, a one-page summary that readers may share an extract from the entire document. Because it is the opening page of your proposal, it will influence how an investor could initially see your concept. Abstracts are lengthier than loglines and treatments.

2. Table of Contents: It's like a menu for a fancy restaurant, except you don't know what any of the dishes taste like yet. The second page of your multi-page proposal should contain a table of contents that provides a general summary and lists each part.

3. Treatment: This is where you give the investor a taste of what's to come. Think of it like a menu description, but for your documentary. "Our film will attempt to portray a juicy story with specific details, likely characters, and vivid descriptions. It's like a steak, but with more drama!" The treatment is a synopsis of the events your film will attempt to portray. Documentary film proposals should contain specific details on anticipated story beats, likely characters, and vivid descriptions that will appear in the finished film. These proposals, which may be several pages long, should be detailed. A two to five-page vivid and realistic description is what you should aim for.

4. Project History: It's like talking about your ex on a first date - you don't want to overshare, but you also don't want to seem like you have no experience. Even if your project is still just a vague idea at this point, start keeping track of its emergence and growth. This should include your interest in the subject, any connections you may have with the characters or the tale, how long you've wanted to produce the movie, and other relevant information.

5. Target Audience: Who would want to watch this movie? Is it just your mom and her cat, or will it be the next big hit? It's like trying to find the right audience for a joke - if it falls flat, it's not funny. Take into account the audience and how they will respond to the story you want to tell. Who will be interested in seeing your movie? What distinguishes your viewpoint from others on the issue and what other films have been made on it?

6. Method and Demeanor: This is where you get to show off your creative skills. Think of it like picking out an outfit for a first date - you want to impress, but not be too flashy. A point of view should be included in your film. Look at the aesthetic of the cinematography. Specify, for example, whether your film will rely primarily on reenactments or still photos and found footage. Take into account the editing when deciding on a style. Will it be paced quickly with startling contrasts, or will it appreciate the lovely and peaceful moments? Describe in no more than one page the key aesthetic elements that will set your approach apart.

7. Significant Figures and Advisors: It's like introducing your friends to your parents - you want to make sure they'll get along. Think about who you will collaborate with, interview, and provide advice for this film. Provide concise summaries of each of these participants' basic characteristics. If at all feasible, limit this section to two pages.

8. The Workday: This is like explaining your daily routine to a therapist - it might not be exciting, but it's important to know. Explain the duration of each stage of your project. How will you do this task? The tasks you want to do during pre-production, research, script writing, hiring, shooting, editing, music development, and sound mixing should be briefly described. One to two pages should make up the final product.

9. Budget Overview and Breakdown: This is like trying to stick to a budget on a night out with friends - it's never as easy as it seems, but it's necessary for a good time. How much will each project stage cost? Create a spreadsheet with all relevant line items.

RECAP - Four GLORIOUS Guidelines for Writing a Documentary Proposal

Writing a documentary proposal is like being a detective - you need to gather all the clues, follow leads, and present a convincing case to secure that sweet, sweet funding. It's like preparing for battle, but instead of swords and armor, you're armed with a killer proposal that will make potential funders say, "Yes, I want to see this documentary happen!". And hey, the harder you work on your proposal, the easier it'll be to convince your team members that they're working on the right project, so you can all celebrate with a victory dance. Just remember to be descriptive and engaging in your proposal - after all, you want to make it so interesting that even the most stoic of funders will be begging to give you their money.

1. Don't hold back! When writing your documentary proposal, it's important to go all out. No detail is too small to include. Think of it as trying to fit an elephant into a tiny car - challenging, but necessary to get the job done.

2. Budget like a boss. Along with your treatment, you need to whip up a budget for your documentary. Don't worry, it's not rocket science - just list the essential elements on a single page. Factor in the cost of renting equipment, paying the crew, and all the other little details that add up.

3. Get creative with fundraising. The key to success is persistence - keep at it, and don't be afraid to get creative. Think of it like putting together a "fundraising menu" with different options for different needs. Maybe even throw in a fundraising dance or two!

4. Keep the faith. Rejection is part of the game, but don't let it get you down. Stay positive and keep pushing forward. You've got this!

So you've got your documentary proposal all polished up and ready to go. Great job, you little filmmaker, you! Now, it's time to start scrounging up some dough to make your masterpiece. There are four types of folks who might be willing to fund your film: the government, corporations, foundations, and individuals. That's right, you're going to need to hit up Uncle Sam and some bigwigs in the biz to make it happen. But don't worry, you don't have to do it alone. Get out there and network, baby! Find the movers and shakers in your community who care about the same things you do. And if you're feeling really adventurous, start hunting down some wild and crazy funding sources you never even thought of. Hey, you never know who might be willing to throw some cash your way. It's all about thinking outside the box, folks. So get out there and start shaking those money trees!

MBF interviews model, actor and creative director, Yash Ozbaris

THIDA: When did you first get into acting?

YB: I was at university I entered a model competition online and I was just not interested then after some weeks they got back to me and said I made it to the top 100 and people voting and I was surprised that I started to get votes! I continued with my university and didn't think much but then when they said I made the top 50 and to come down to the modeling agency Storm models in London I thought okay this is getting a little serious. I then went down to London not knowing much and spoke to Sarah Doukas who scouted Kate moss and other top models. I made it to the top 20 but I didn't win. I somehow got the confidence and from the agencies, Sarah told me about I applied and was taken on by a talent agency I was only 21 :)

MBF: Wow. Selected by Sarah herself. What an achievement. And what was the strangest thing you've had to do on a job and why?

YB: I've had to go to an audition once and they wanted me to pretend to bark and be an animal for a comedy kind of show was funny now looking back then in the casting studio barking like a dog 🤣

MBF: Haha, we can imagine how hard that must have been to keep a straight face. You look really swish in those 'mad hatter' scenes by the way. We know you creatively direct photoshoots, but what is your main source of income in this industry?

YB: TV commercials, campaigns for Nokia, T-mobile, Ford Ka campaign, Blackberry, TV parts in both UK and America.

MBF: Yup. Commercial always pays the bills. Part of our mission is to be able to follow the growth of Indie filmmakers and their success stories as time evolves, but we also know hundreds of people that aspire to earn from acting and extra work will benefit from your experience.

MBF: What was the most difficult job you've had to do and why?

YB: I've had to go to an audition once and they wanted me to pretend to bark and be an animal for a comedy kind of show was funny now looking back then in the casting studio barking like a dog 🤣There have been many jobs with very early starts the hardest part was being told I was not 'caucasian' enough for a part of the racism in the industry back then was very bad happy to know people of colour are now in more movies and models who grace covers of vogue are of colour!

MBF: That is an interesting turn of events. And really shows that everything is temporary, and trends will go around, supporting our motto of 'Doing What You Love, and Loving What You Do" till its your turn to shine.

Speaking of shining, what was the most memorable job that shone out in your mind, and why?

YB: When I got chosen to be part of a team of talents from around Europe and got flown to the Canary islands for a tourism campaign. Seeing all the different islands of outstanding national beauty, got to take part in volcano hikes, and water skiing and just meeting so many other talents from Sweden, Denmark, France, and England and making friends, was AMAZING fun and one of those jobs I will never forget and also got to be on the radio in another country and tourism board for Canary islands the happy sunny ☀️ place all year round with the slogan 'No winter Blues! :)'

MBF: Yes, sounds very sunny and shiny indeed. What we wouldn't give to be on a beach in Spain right now. And can you tell us, Yash, what has been the hardest thing about your career?

YB: The rejections are very, very tough. Being told I'm essentially not white enough for some parts is very hard to understand but now I've been in the industry for so long that you can see it's changing and has changed for the better so still want to push boundaries and change the industry for the better.

MBF: Right, and I'm sure more than a few can resonate with what you are saying here. That in mind, what has been the most rewarding thing about your career?

YB: Just the creativity I love fashion, I love being in front of the camera, meeting cool photographers models actors on shoots and wearing nice clothes, being cool characters, and seeing the amazing sets just makes it all worth the rejection in the early mornings.

MBF: Sounds truly magnificent!

Well, as you have dabbled in actor and presenter coaching during your work as Creative Director with Create Me Workshop back when it was empowering talent in 2012, what would your five key bits of advice be to those starting up in their acting careers?

YB: Be very ready for the tough side of the industry, be ready for rejection, stay strong and vigilant, and keep going...you got this! 👊

MBF: Strong and solid advice there, we couldn't have said it better ourselves.

Would you like to add anything else?

YB: I am using my platform to raise awareness of the devasting disasters in Turkey. My family is Turkish Cypriot and would urge people to please donate any clothing or funds to the many charities working with Turkey to help rebuild the absolute disaster that's just happened there 🙏

MBF: That's a really honorable shout out. I think a lot of us want to be able to help others but find it difficult to trust where our money is being spent, so its good to have first-hand contact like this. How can people contact you?

YB: My Instagram is yashiiman (Model/Acting and lifestyle blog)My spotlight (acting) link is https://www.spotlight.com/8613-1272-3995 and myFacebook page is www.facebook.com/yashmodel

MBF: Thank you so much, Yash. We feel motivated and ready to face the world another day.

JASON: In this second episode, we meet Lindsay McAuley, a world traveler and movie maker who explains his art of capturing ancient times in motion.

Check out Lindsay's fascinating projects here:

Royalty-Free Music

It is impossible to overestimate the importance of music in a movie's success. We searched other websites that provided royalty-free possibilities in search of appropriate tunes, including MobyGratis and Soundstripe. Also, it can be advantageous for both parties to request that friends contribute some of their creative music. Don't be scared to enlist the help of your friends because doing so not only gives them significant exposure but also guarantees that your project will profit from their special talents.

Colour Grade Tips

If you are working on your mood book (lookbook) for your client's project or your own, and you have taken inspiration from a particular film, here's a way to copy that look in DaVinci Resolve. Take a clip from the film, (or a still) into the color tab in DaVinci Resolve. Put the still in Gallery. The colour scheme from that still can now be placed over your footage, getting you closer to the look/tone you seek.

If you do not own DaVinci Resolve, you can download the free version, here. DaVinci Resolve 18 | Blackmagic Design

SEARCHING FOR SUGAR MAN

JOHN: "So, this is not a recent documentary but it is a great example of how a question can become a story of interest, compelling enough to become a documentary film. In searching for Sugar Man, the director is able to explore and tell two stories from a single question: “How did this man die?

I don't want to spoil the story but here is the trailer, which is also a great example of how to create a trailer for your film. "

SEARCHING FOR SUGAR MAN - Official UK Trailer - An Award-Winning Documentary

They do a brilliant job of using archival footage, old newspaper clippings, and photographs to help you be there. During the time of the artist Rodriquez, the grittiness of the interviews and historical footage really kept me engaged and wondering how the story would end. I am sure you can find this film on YouTube, for free, so I would suggest watching it. I believe this film will help you become a better storyteller.

The H.P. Lovecraft Film Festival® evangelizes the genres of Cosmic Horror and the Weird Tale through the exhibition of cinematic works by professional and independent filmmakers, including cinematic adaptations of H. P. Lovecraft's stories, as well as other works in the genres of Cosmic Horror, the Weird tale, and the Uncanny. March 28, 2023 | The Haunter of the Deadline

Bolton International Film Festival is proud to be one of the Top 10 short film festivals in the UK and accredited by both BAFTA (British Academy of Film and Television Arts) and BIFA (British Independent Film Awards). April 4, 2023 | April Deadline

The mission of the IAFF Golden Kuker-Sofia is to contribute to the development of Bulgarian art, to help Bulgarian and foreign animators get in touch, and to support young professionals and students. April 17, 2023 | Notification Date

Torino Underground Distribution is an opportunity for filmmakers to take their work to the next level. It is a real opportunity to distribute your film on Sooner.de and consequently on Amazon Germany and Amazon Great Britain. March 27, 2023 | Deadline F

CLIFFORD: We have a really exciting workshop with Mark Wentworth coming up on Sunday, March 12th, 2023, straight after our Micro-Budget Filmmakers online network meetup.

Mark is a colour expert who has been working with the transformational power of colour in storytelling for 36 years, 23 of which have been integrating colour with archetypal depth psychology, expressive arts, and psychodrama.

And if you aren't already a member, be sure to join our 1,500 strong meetup via the above link...it's a completely FREE meetup, sponsored by Plasm Productions as part of their social activities.

Get ready to network, learn, and be inspired with our beloved teammate Clifford White, award-winning music composer and host of our 1500-member-strong Micro Budget Filmmaker Meetup.

Whether you're a seasoned filmmaker or just starting out, this is the perfect opportunity to expand your knowledge, share your work, and make meaningful connections in the film industry. Don't miss out on this exciting evening of film and friendship. RSVP now to secure your spot!

Finally, please check it our newly launched LinkedIn Group, 'Micro-Budget-Filmmakers', naturally... designed to allow you to connect and collaborate with fellow Filmmakers around the world. If you don't already use LinkedIn, it's one of the best places to be able to list your skills, projects and experience in order to meet fellow artists.

Well, that's a wrap for the second edition of our Micro-Budget Filmmakers Newsletter!

We hope you found all of the tips, tricks, and inspiration to be super useful (and maybe even a little bit entertaining). And if you didn't, well, sorry about that. But hey, there's always the next issue!

So until then, keep those cameras rolling and those creative juices flowing. And remember, even when things get tough (and trust us, they will), there's always a way to make it work.

Happy filmmaking, fellow Filmies!