Filmmaking doesn't have to cost a fortune, especially when it comes to found footage horror. In fact, the genre practically thrives on its shoestring-budget charm. Whether you’re a budding director or just looking to have some scary fun with friends, here’s your step-by-step guide on how to shoot a found footage film without breaking the bank.

Step 1: Write a Killer Script (or Don’t)

When it comes to found footage, you have two script options: go for a polished script to guide your actors through a structured narrative, ensuring key moments and scares hit just right, or embrace the genre's improvisational roots by giving actors an outline and letting them ad-lib their dialogue for a natural, authentic feel. If you can’t decide, try a mix of both—draft a loose script with major plot points and allow for spontaneous moments. The key is to keep the story engaging and believable, ensuring the audience is hooked and questioning the reality of what they’re watching.

Step 2: Gather Your Gear

You don’t need a fancy camera to shoot a found footage film. Your smartphone is your best friend here. Today’s smartphones have incredible video quality, and their portability is perfect for those shaky, immersive shots. If you want to get fancy, borrow or rent a handheld camcorder. Bonus points if it’s an old-school VHS model—nothing screams "authentic found footage" like a good, grainy VHS tape.

Step 3: Location, Location, Location

The best locations are free locations. Look for eerie settings that don’t require permits or fees, like a friend’s creepy basement, the nearby woods, or an abandoned building (just make sure it’s legal and safe). These places come with built-in atmosphere, saving you time and money on set design. Plus, the more isolated, the better—it adds to the realism and the tension.

Step 4: Cast Your Friends

Who needs professional actors when you have friends willing to work for pizza? Cast your pals and let them embrace their inner thespians. The key is to capture genuine reactions, so encourage them to play it natural and unscripted. Just remind them that if they start to think they’re Oscar-worthy, they might be taking it too seriously.

Step 5: Embrace the Shaky Cam

Shaky cam is your best friend, and it’s free! Embrace the movement to enhance the realism of your film. The shakier, the better. Sure, some viewers might complain about nausea, but hey, it’s all part of the experience. Just think of it as your film’s unique signature.

Step 6: Use Natural Lighting

Natural lighting is not only budget-friendly, but it also adds to the authenticity of your found footage film. Shoot during the day or use flashlights and candles for night scenes. If anyone questions the lighting quality, just tell them it’s all part of the gritty, realistic aesthetic.

Step 7: Record Authentic Sound

Forget about expensive sound equipment. Use the built-in microphone on your phone or camera to capture the audio. Embrace background noise as part of the ambiance. The rustle of leaves, distant traffic, or even the neighbor’s barking dog can add to the authenticity. Remember, it’s all about that raw, unfiltered feel.

Step 8: Editing Magic

Use free or low-cost editing software to piece together your film. Programs like DaVinci Resolve offer plenty of editing power without the price tag. Keep the cuts minimal and the transitions simple—this isn’t a Hollywood blockbuster, after all. Focus on maintaining the illusion that this is real, unedited footage found on a camera or phone.

Step 9: Market Like a Pro

Now that your masterpiece is complete, it’s time to get the word out (ahem...on FOUND?). Utilize social media to build hype. Create a mysterious backstory for your film, maybe even a fake website or social media profiles for the characters. Channel your inner "Blair Witch" marketer and get creative with it. The more you can blur the lines between fiction and reality, the more intrigued your audience will be.

Shooting a found footage film on a budget is not only possible but also part of the genre’s charm. With a bit of creativity, resourcefulness, and a lot of shaky cam, you can create a film that feels authentic and engaging. So grab your camera (or phone), rally your friends, and start crafting your own piece of found footage horror history.