Let’s take a look at some of these DIY tips as well as where to find the equipment they call for.

Low Fog

If you’re shooting a horror film, or any type of science fiction story, creating mood and environment is key. This low-lying fog adds a layer of creepiness and a boosts the sense of production value on your set. As Connolly advises, when handling the dry ice, make sure you wear gloves and make sure you don’t touch the ice with your bare skin.

What you need:

• Styrofoam cooler
• Fog machine
• Dry Ice

Lens Flare

Capturing an organic lens flare in camera is easier than it sounds, and this cost effective technique will get the job done without taking your shoot outside. With a little bit of tape on the top and bottom of your lens, you can get the flare effect you’ve always wanted, without distracting your audience.

If you still want more control over the flare or need to add one during the post-production process, check out RocketStock’s anamorphic lens flare pack here.

What you need:

• Tape
• Fishing line

Spray Paint Lights

Let’s say you don’t have the resources or time to get a few gels before your next shoot. Not to worry. You can simply spray paint the lightbulb. You can even include these in the shot, as they are visually appealing. Make sure you purchase heat-resistant paint because the bulbs become extremely hot as the shoot goes on (we’ve all seen what they can do to gels).

What you need:

• Heat-resistant paint

Shower Curtain

Using a shower curtain as a diffuser is not just a household trick. Professional cinematographers like Shane Hurlbut have used it on big-budget film sets. Even if you don’t have shower curtain with you on set, a quick run to nearest grocery or supply store will set you up with a super cheap solution. This curtain will add a level of diffusion that will help with harsh sunlight or shadows.

What you need:

• Shower curtain

Simulating a Party

One of the most frustrating aspects of shooting a scene that requires a lot of extras is actually rounding up enough people to make the scene look convincing. Fortunately for you, there’s a simple solution to subtly deceive the audience that uses only a handful of people and a few crew members to create the appearance of a raging party. Use your telephoto lens or zoom in enough to close the background up around your subject. Voila. If you want a little added spice, have a crew member walk in front of the camera or behind your subject to add even more to the illusion.