Film Challenge Detroit is all about sharing and celebrating local filmmakers' creations.Â
We're looking for solid stories told in creatively engaging ways, and you don't need a fancy camera to do it.Â
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(You have until Sept. 21 to enter, so click here to find out how!)
So, we set out to compile some smartphone apps and accessories that are cost-effective solutions to tell a story.Â
If you carry a smartphone, then you already have a powerful tool to help you plan your film. You could do an entire production -- writing and story boarding to grading and editing -- all with apps.Â
Here are some of our favorites.Â
Writing
Celtx (Free, monthly subscription optional - iOS, Android)
Most people probably wouldn't write their screenplay on a phone, but if you are like me, then inspiration usually strikes when you are away from your computer. For me, I find that I write most of my ideas down on my phone.Â
CELTX is a fantastic way to properly format a treatment with easy to use formatting for scripts. Multiple users can use Celtx to collaborate all on one project with ease. Great to use in conjunction with Celtx Cards to help you stay organized as you get started on your short film.
Planning
Shot Designer (Free, IAP 19.99 for Pro Version - iOS, Android)
Being able to quickly and easily communicate the blocking you envision for your scene is crucial, and Shot Designer is a great way to block out how you envision your scene playing out.
With the ability to tag storyboard images to shots and animate actors and cameras through complex setups, Shot Designer is not only an important app but a fun way to lay out the groundwork for your story.
(Special mention)
ShotPro (39.99, Paid monthly subscription for advanced features - iOS and Windows store only)
Ok this is a tough one to recommend, especially to iPhone users (Sorry guys nothing like this on Android yet) but this is hands down my all time favorite app, and is an absolutely vital tool for creating simple animatics for your film on the go.Â
Comparable software for Mac and PC starts at over $400 for apps like FrameForge Previz or iClone. Â
If you can get past the price tag you will find a robust tool set for dragging and dropping 3D models into a scene, designing complex shots utilizing multiple cameras and even drones!Â
With the ability to export your film concept in up to 4K resolutions so you can share what your vision of the project will be with your crew!Â
When working with a limited budget and time constraints as one often does with a short film it's nice to get a sense of what your essential shots need to be and ShotPro does just that.
Shooting
FiLMic Pro (9.99 - iOS, Android)
Most of you probably aren't going to shoot your film on your phone but it is nice to know you can get good results if you use an app like FiLMic Pro.
Did you know that audiences couldn't tell the difference between an iPhone using this app and a Canon C300 in a test performed by Zacuto for their Revenge of the Great Camera Shoot Out?Â
With proper lighting you can really get magical results from this application which maximizes the data rate your camera is capable of, this makes grading more flexible and reduces artifacts you would normally get in the dark areas of your footage. You also get a variety of manual camera settings to make sure you get the best image possible out of the tiny sensor in your phone.Â
Post
Chromic (Free, In App Purchases - iOS only)
Sadly, I have yet to find anything that compares to Chromic on an Android device but if you are using an iPhone this is a must have application for grading your footage on the go. You get a variety of tools to fine tune saturation, brightness and sharpness as well as the ability to add film looks that are really well done and after adjusting some settings you can combine these settings to make really unique looks for your films.
(Special Mention)
Director Malik Bendjelloul used 8mm on his Oscar-nominated documentary ‘Searching For Sugar Man,’ so that gives you an idea of the level of quality this app provides. It was recently updated to 4K resolutions so your vintage looks (ironically) can look their very best. The "70s" setting is my favorite and is really authentic.
Also authentic is the wonderful (and slightly gimmicky) VHS app. The zoom mode and on screen text are just perfect and a nostalgic touch that will make you laugh if you remember using VHS camcorders.
If your movie requires vintage footage you can't go wrong with using these apps.
These are just a few of the tools that we think can help you on your journey to tell your story. Is there a favorite application of yours that we missed? What do you use while on the go to help you plan and shoot your films?Â
Tell us below!