Always Say You’re a Student

When it comes to no budget independent film making, you will encounter flack from a lot of authority figures:

-Police
-Landlords
-Nosey neighbors
-Property owners
-Drunk Cubs enthusiasts

From years of dealing with these types, I’ve learned the best way to talk your way out of a tight spot is to claim your a film student at (local college, university, or art school). If you want to get ballsy you can say you’re an intern (or whatever) at the Sundance Institute. I did this for a bit, but people would ask a lot of follow up questions and assume I was famous.

I’m in Chicago, so my stand-by is grad student in the Columbia College film program. Art schools are especially nice because no one would expect you to produce a school ID.

Regardless of what school you pick, saying you’re a student creates the illusion that you’re well meaning (I’m sure you are, but most people see cameras and dudes and think you’re up to trouble) AND it’s an ironclad excuse for your lack of proper permissions and paper work.

“oh, really? I can’t film here? Oh, I had no idea. I’m sorry; I’m doing this thing for my film class at Columbia. I didn’t know I needed permission to shoot here. I thought it was cool. My bad. Is it ok if I stay just a few more minutes?”

Most of the time they’ll tell you to leave. Some might be cool with you finishing up as long as you don’t create a ruckus.

I’ve had equipment confiscated by security guards, tapes taken, and cops called on me before. None of which happened with the student excuse. Tell them you’re a student.