With the price of silver strong as ever, and the global recession shrinking our filming budgets, here are 8 helpful pointers that might help you shoot more film this year!

A handy video tutorial here for anyone needing a quick, heavy volume smoke effect. You could use the can as a pretend smoke bomb and actually throw it onto the set, or just use the smoke it produces as part of an effect in your movie.

Some of my favourite footage was taken in winter – the bitter frost and falling snow can make shots really atmospheric. Before filming in winter though, it helps to be prepared for when disaster strikes in the form of a dead battery or a jammed film magazine/cartridge. This article will help you make sure you’re fully equipped and getting the right exposure in your movies.

I do most of my editing the lazy way – in the camera, and I’m always trying to think of smart ways to dissolve or fade from one scene to the next. Here’s one I’m proud of. Use acetate (heavy clear or frosted plastic), which you can get from your local art supplies store. I usually buy it in pieces 25 inches x 50 inches, although it also comes in rolls of 12 feet and 50 feet. I sandpaper the…

I have discovered a realistic way of depicting a miserably cold rain sequence for an animated film. This works best for a small-scale model, and prevents the model and characters from getting soggy. Construct a small tray with small holes drilled in it (cardboard works well) and fill it with silver glitter. When you’re ready to start filming, shake the tray. Shining a white light on the glitter helps to create the impression of rain. Strategically placed burning cigarettes make…