Learn from a filmmaking duo who have produced over a dozen films! 

PLUS! You'll receive exclusive handouts to keep: a case study script, a stripboard/schedule, and a crew list!

Hiring a qualified crew for your micro-budget feature film—especially one with a budget of $150,000 or less—is absolutely crucial. You might think that with a compelling story, your film will speak for itself, but even the best scripts can falter without a team that knows how to bring your vision to life. It’s about more than just talent; it’s about having the right people to handle the countless decisions and challenges that come with shooting on a micro-budget. Every choice, from cinematography to sound, can make or break your film, so understanding how to build a committed and capable crew is essential for your film’s success.

How do you make a million-dollar movie on a micro-budget? It’s a daunting question if you are taking this huge career step. You may have an excellent script in hand, but the path forward can feel unclear and full of potential missteps. Building a reliable crew requires understanding how to balance fair compensation with the resources available to you. For example, you'll need to determine when to hire based on potential over experience, how to empower collegiate interns, and why authenticity and sweat equity are invaluable assets. The truth is, creating a successful film on a small budget is a skill set of its own, requiring strategic decisions about leadership, compensation, and resourcefulness.

That’s why we’re thrilled to have Erika Arlee and Kristi Ray, co-founders of the award-winning Honey Head Films, as your instructors. Erika, a writer, director, and cinematographer, has built a career specializing in ultra-low-budget filmmaking and has a proven track record with critically acclaimed films like A Song For Imogene, which has won multiple awards. Kristi, a producer and actress trained at Lee Strasberg, has been a force in independent film for over 15 years, championing strong, female-centric narratives. Together, they bring a wealth of experience and a passion for empowering filmmakers with the tools they need to tell their stories effectively, even on limited budgets.

In this webinar, you’ll gain practical insights on hiring a crew that fits your budget and vision. From understanding which roles are essential to budget for and how to decide when to stay lean or scale up, to strategies like “fixing it in prep” and fostering a positive set environment, Erika and Kristi will guide you through every critical step. 

PLUS! You will receive these exclusive handouts for you to keep:

• A case study script

• A stripboard/schedule

• A crew list

How to Build the Crew You Need

• Hiring on potential over proof

• Empowering collegiate interns 

• Understanding emotional currency

• Why authenticity and sweat equity matter

• When to stay skinny and when to scale

Understanding the Types of Rates You Will Pay

• Questions you need to ask yourself about your project when crewing up 

• An overview of the types of roles you need to budget 

• An overview of what you will pay for them

• Hiring on potential over proof

Micro Budget Nuts and Bolts

• How to “fix it in prep” 

• Maintaining a positive set atmosphere

• The benefits of investing in teaching and giving back 

• Checking egos at the door

• Putting together equipment packages that make sense for your crew size

Case Study

• A SONG FOR IMOGENE: Feature Film Case Study

Q&A with Erika and Kristi

Testimonial from your Stage 32 Educators:

"Stage 32 is an amazing creative community that acts as a pivotal bridge to members of the film industry, especially those at early career stages. We are excited to share our years of award-winning production experience with all Stage 32 members." -Erika Arlee and Kristi Ray, Honey Head Films

• Aspiring filmmakers with a micro-budget feature in the works
• Directors, producers, and writers seeking practical tips on crew building
• Filmmakers interested in learning how to manage a team on a budget of $150,000 or less
• Independent filmmakers aiming to understand the key roles and strategies needed for a successful shoot

Testimonial from your Stage 32 Educators:

"Stage 32 is an amazing creative community that acts as a pivotal bridge to members of the film industry, especially those at early career stages. We are excited to share our years of award-winning production experience with all Stage 32 members." -Erika Arlee and Kristi Ray, Honey Head Films