Low Budget Feature Production Lab
The Low Budget Production Lab is a free two-day workshop teaching you to create high-quality productions with minimal resources, led by expert guest tutor Bill Thomas.
This two-day intensive Lab is designed for filmmakers looking to develop and produce a feature film on a limited budget. Through hands-on exercises, real-world case studies, and industry insights, you’ll learn how to make smart, practical decisions that bring your project to life without breaking the bank.
Day 1 covers the fundamentals of low-budget filmmaking: choosing the right project, securing funding, and working within real-world limitations. Using The Adventures of Maid Marian as a case study, you’ll explore budgeting, risk reduction, and resourceful production planning.
Day 2 explores the logistics of low-budget production, from breaking down scripts and scheduling efficiently to handling contracts and deliverables. Working with real-world examples, you’ll explore how low-budget films are structured, shot, and sold.
Through practical exercises, scene breakdowns, and expert guidance, this Lab will equip you with the skills to turn your ideas into a viable, fundable film without breaking the bank.
bill thomas, guest tutor
Bill is an internationally working, freelance Producer/Director. He’s directed several feature films and documentary drama for over 200 broadcast episodes for various channels including Amazon, the BBC, National Geographic, Discovery, and Channel 5. In addition, he has directed shorts, online sketch comedy and branded content. He is passionate about creating high quality, engaging drama, has a good working knowledge of VFX and has a reputation for getting the most out of limited time, resources, and budgets.
Originally from the North East of Scotland, Bill began his career in film and TV art departments. Over the years he worked as a Prop and Model Maker on many big budget productions. These included Star Wars, Harry Potter, V for Vendetta, Bridgerton, James Bond, and The Dark Knight Rises. He also worked as an Art Director for various companies including: BBC Arts, Brook Lapping, October Films, Darlow Smithson, Wall to Wall, and Pioneer.
