Start with the Story: Developing Your Feature Film Concept on a Budget

Before you think about cameras, locations, or casting, you need one thing: a story worth telling. Developing your feature film on a budget starts with a clear, compelling concept—and you don’t need a dime to get started.

After making three award-winning short films, I’m now in early development on my first feature. If you’re dreaming of doing the same, the first step is simple: get your story down.

Here’s How to Get Started:

• Write a One-Sentence Logline – What’s your film about? Who is it for? Sum it up in a single sentence. If you can’t, you’re not ready to move forward.

• Sketch Out a Beat Sheet – Use the three-act structure as a loose guide. Plot the major emotional turning points. It doesn’t need to be fancy—pen and paper works fine.

• Think Within Your Means – Budget doesn’t limit your creativity. It focuses it. Think of locations you have access to, stories that rely on dialogue, or intimate character dramas.

• Test the Idea – Share your logline with trusted friends or collaborators. Watch their reaction. Ask questions. Does the story hook them?

The sooner you focus on the story, the sooner you’ll start building momentum.

Your story is your currency—spend time developing it now, and you’ll thank yourself later.

-Jason