Students Starting out with a Skeleton Crew

I've spent most of my career creating hands-on, learn-by-doing, educational programs. It's been especially effective in training first-time filmmakers to write, shoot, direct and edit their own short films. Most student filmmakers seem to have limited budgets and time restrictions, and almost always start their careers working in skeleton crews; usually two to five crew members.

This can seem intimidating to someone who has never done it, but is very doable and actually a good way to begin.

 Photo credit: Michael Eldon Lobsinger

Not sure how to start with a slim crew? I recently found an excellent article by LA-based independent filmmaker Noam Kroll that gives great tips and insight on the must-have members for your team, titled "How to Shoot a Film with a Skeleton Crew." It's worth reading no matter what level you're at.

Kroll got his start working on digital content, short films and music videos, which led to commercials, TV content and feature film work. I learned he currently runs a production company/post house called Creative Rebellion.

- Jim York