There’s a lot to think about when making your own film, but you can get ahead by having the essential paperwork ready to go.
To help get you started, we’ve put together this collection of free film production documents. All of them are in a guideline format, so feel free to edit and personalize them however you want.
⚖️ Video Collective accepts no legal responsibility for the use of these templates. All forms or contracts should be customized to suit each production and the legislation of your country.
Templates
| Document | Description | Link |
|---|---|---|
| Invoice Template | To get paid as a freelancer, you will need to send an invoice. Basically, this is a simple one-page document that lets your client know how to pay you. | Download PDF |
| Contract Template | You might not be given a contract by your client. If so, then you will need to create one and have them sign it. This is especially important when it comes to long-term projects. | Download PDF |
| Call Sheet Template | If you’re producing a film, then you might want to use a call sheet. All cast and crew members will get a call sheet at the start of every shooting day. | Download PDF |
| Storyboard Template | As a filmmaker, you need to get your vision of the film from script to screen. But how can you share this vision with your film crew? The easiest way is through a storyboard. | Download PDF |
| Shooting Schedule | A shooting schedule is a plan that every film follows to make sure that the production goes smoothly. It’s a simple breakdown of the scenes, talent, time, cast, company moves, and day breaks. | Download PDF |
| Talent Release Form | If you’re working with actors or conducting interviews, then you’ll need everyone to sign a talent release form. You are legally obliged to get signed permission from everyone that appears in your film. | Download PDF |
| Film Resume Template | To apply for film work, you will need to create a resume. A film resume is different from an ordinary resume in that it consists of a list of film credits. | Download PDF |
| Cover Letter Template | In addition to a film resume you’ll need a cover letter. Basically, your cover letter should explain who you are and why you are the best person for the job role. It should be kept as short as possible, as the person hiring will only have a limited amount of time to read it. | Download PDF |
| Location Release Form | A location release form grants permission to film in a location from the property owner. This can help you avoid future problems. If the owner of a property sees their site used without permission, they could take you to court. | Download PDF |
| Camera Shot List | Having a shot list allows you to communicate your vision with the rest of the crew. This is especially necessary for specialist shots that would need equipment hiring out in advance. They also help the 2nd AD create the schedule around your shooting plans. | Download PDF |
| Script Breakdown | Before you can create a working schedule, you will need to complete a script breakdown. A script breakdown is when you list everything that appears in each scene. Your analysis includes everything that you need to gather before you can start production, from cast to costume. | Download PDF |
| Film Treatment | A film treatment presents your entire screenplay idea on a couple of pages. It includes information on the title, genre, main characters, and a three-act structure synopsis. You don’t need to have a treatment when you make a film, but many filmmakers create one. | Download PDF |
| Film Synopsis | Before you can create a working schedule, you will need to complete a script breakdown. A script breakdown is a film synopsis, which is a one-page document summarising your film. Producers will ask for a movie synopsis before they read your screenplay. | Download PDF |
| Budget Breakdown | A film budget breakdown allows you to see exactly how much a film will cost to make. To begin with, list your cast and crew. Then, work your way through pre-production to post-production costs. | Download PDF |
| Equipment Rental Agreement | If you are renting equipment that you do not own, be sure to fill out a rental agreement. This form acts as a contract between the two parties. | Download PDF |
| Daily Progress Report | The daily progress report lets you know at a glance how fast it is taking to record each scene. It includes information on the call time, time of the first shot, breaks, and wrap. As well as a breakdown of daily scenes, script pages, and set-ups. | Download PDF |
| Music Release Form | You need to have permission to use all music in your film, even if you’re not using it for commercial release. | Download PDF |
