This extension of the DIY movement into mainstream, popular culture, like any cultural upheaval, is a significant area for digital marketers to address. The greatest aspect of DIY projects is that importance is placed on individuality and personalization, overpricing. It’s all about Ingenuity. As a weekend filmmaker, I love film hacks. Today I will share one that I used in a recent music video. Sun Scrims!

A scrim is a light modifier used by photographers and the film industry to reduce the intensity and harshness of the light. The medium used is often semi-transparent fabric such as white muslin, polyester, and nylon. The light that reaches the subject is diffused and creates a flattering light. Check out my other posts on the basics of lighting for a good foundation of what we are doing here.

Things you will need to create your 6ft x 6ft Scrim AND Frame:

30ft of PVC Piping Schedule-40, 3/4" Diameter (Three 10ft Pipes, PVC Pipes are readily available at many Home Improvement Stores). - $3.64 * 3Qty = $10.92
Grommet Making Kit - $6.48
Eight (8) Pack of Ball Bungee Cords. -$7.98
Two (2) PVC T Shaped Connectors with screw and slip ends. For 3/4" Diameter Piping - $1.03*2Qty = $2.06
Four (4) PVC 90deg Slip Connectors. For 3/4" to 3/4" Diameter Piping. - $1.51*4Qty = $6.04
72"x72" Frosted Shower Curtain Liner (Or similar-sized alternative). YES SHOWER CURTAIN. - $9.96

Cut two of the PVC Pipes into 6ft and 3 ft Lengths. Scrap the remaining foot of PVC Pinign or use for another project.

Cut the last pice of PVC Piping in two 3ft Lengths.
Use the two 6ft Length Pipes for the top and bottom. Add a 90 Degree Connector to each end of the pipes.
Between both of the 3ft Length Pipes add a T Shaped Connector to allow for easier connection to a C-Stand or structural support. Attach these pieces to the 6ft Pipes using the PVC 90 Degree Slip Connectors.
Use the Grommet Kit to add reinforced holes to each of the sides of the Frosted Shower Curtain Liner.
Using the adjustable Bungee Balls attach the shower curtain to the overall frame. You are done. Now just find a good light source whether natural or a video light and use the diffuser to modify the light on your subject.

By this point I am sure you have checked out some of my other blog posts highlighting some of the preproduction phases of film making, everything from narrative work to instructional videos. Whats next? Shot lists! Dont worry they are simple to create.

A shot list serves a crucial purpose. It is a document that maps the clip compositions for every scene within a film. Consider it a functional checklist for the production team to provide general direction and facilitate efficiency on set. It is developed by the Director and Cinematographer, depending on the size of the team one person may be doing both roles. Be sure write out every scene out in complete detail. Mentally visualize the entire video in your head and write it down. In my experience this document has been the glue that helps small production crews come together during brainstorming think tanks.

What information is captured on a Shot List:

Identify Scene (i.e. "Breakfast in Kitchen").
Assign Reference numbers for each clip within Scenes (i.e. Breakfast in Kitchen 001).
Scene Description - List the action sequence details, what is happening in the scene inclusive of props, actors, animations and summarize dialogue.
Camera Equipment (ie. Camera Model and Lens Needed)
Camera Movement (Zoom, Pan, Arc, Dolly)
Camera Angle (High, Eye-Level, Ground, etc.)
Audio Design (Voice-over, Boom, Lavalier, etc)
Shot Framing (Wide, Medium, Tight)

Pro Tip: Google Sheets and Excel are great places to organize your shot lists. Take a stab at it and let me know if you need help.