SECTION 4
Go Undercover With These Five Guerrilla Filmmaking Tactics
Guerrilla filmmaking can be risky, but sometimes there’s no choice. Here are some important planning tips that can help prevent disaster.
When faced with the dilemma – to shoot without permits or not shoot at all – a lot of filmmakers will opt to shoot their film “guerrilla” style. In other words, they’ll choose to go ahead and film without location permits or permission from property owners in order to keep more money in the bank. While this may seem like a fairly easy decision (especially when faced with having to shell out potentially thousands of dollars for permits), there are some severe downsides to consider when going down this path.
and having your gear confiscated. Thankfully there are some workarounds that can help you tackle a guerrilla or low-budget shoot if you want to do it right. These tips are equally as applicable to journalists who may be working in restrictive conditions. Quick Note: When shooting guerrilla style there is always a risk that you will be shut down or fined. If you choose to go down this path, you are doing so at your own risk. Always be aware of the potential consequences. Be sure to check local laws and, most importantly, always keep your crew’s safety in mind.
If you’re caught at the wrong place at the wrong time, you run the risk of having your production shut down, receiving additional fines, 88