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Film a one-take movie

Film a one-take movie
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Plan and film a short one-take movie with friends using a smartphone or camera, practicing storyboarding, timing, and teamwork using safe props and simple effects.

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Step-by-step guide to film a one-take movie

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1st Grade Kids Learning Videos Compilation

What you need
A few safe props (hat scarf toy), a small stack of books or a simple phone stand, adult supervision required, colouring materials, costume pieces, paper, pencil, sticky notes, tape

Step 1

Pick a simple story idea that you can tell in one short scene.

Step 2

Decide how long your one-take movie will be (choose a time like 60–90 seconds).

Step 3

Assign roles to your friends (actor camera person prop manager director).

Step 4

Draw a 4-panel storyboard on paper showing the beginning middle and end and where the camera moves.

Step 5

Write the main beats and approximate times on sticky notes and stick them to the storyboard.

Step 6

Choose props and costume pieces and place them where the actors will grab them.

Step 7

Practice the actors’ movements and lines slowly without the camera.

Step 8

Walk the camera path one time while pretending to hold the camera so the camera person learns the route.

Step 9

Decide whether the camera will sit on a stack of books or be held by someone for the take.

Step 10

Set up the camera support or hand the camera to the chosen person so it is ready to record.

Step 11

Do a full timed rehearsal while recording to check timing and movement.

Step 12

Make any small changes to the storyboard props or timing based on the rehearsal.

Step 13

Film the final one-take movie in one continuous shot from start to finish.

Step 14

Watch the footage with your team and choose the best take.

Step 15

Share your finished one-take movie on DIY.org

Final steps

You're almost there! Complete all the steps, bring your creation to life, post it, and conquer the challenge!

Complete & Share
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Help!?

What can we use if we don't have a camera, sticky notes, or storyboard paper?

Use a smartphone to record, fold regular printer paper into four panels for the 4-panel storyboard, and replace sticky notes with small pieces of tape or index cards to stick the main beats to your drawing.

What should we do if the camera keeps shaking or actors keep missing their marks during the final take?

Mark the camera path and actor spots on the floor with masking tape, decide to use a stack of books or a steady hand-held grip as described in 'Decide whether the camera will sit on a stack of books or be held by someone,' and run extra full timed rehearsals while recording to fix timing and movement.

How can we adapt this one-take movie activity for younger or older kids?

For younger kids shorten the runtime to 30–45 seconds, assign fewer roles and use a simpler 2-panel storyboard during practice, while older kids can keep 60–90 seconds, use the full 4-panel storyboard and detailed sticky-note timing for more complex beats and camera moves.

How can we enhance or personalize our movie after we've filmed the final take?

Add a custom title card, simple music or sound effects in post, refine props or costume pieces you adjusted during 'Make any small changes,' and include a behind-the-scenes clip when you 'Watch the footage with your team and choose the best take' before sharing on DIY.org.

Watch videos on how to film a one-take movie

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Movie Studio 14 - Full Tutorial for Beginners [+General Overview] *

4 Videos

Facts about filmmaking for kids

✏️ Storyboards let filmmakers plan camera moves, actor blocking, and timing ahead of time — a huge time-saver on set.

🎬 Alfred Hitchcock's Rope was edited to appear as one continuous shot by hiding cuts between long takes at clever moments.

🤝 Even kid-made short films benefit from clear roles (director, camera, sound, actor): teamwork keeps a one-take shoot running smoothly.

🎥 Russian Ark was filmed in a single 96-minute continuous take, traveling through the Winter Palace with hundreds of actors.

📱 The indie film Tangerine (2015) was famously shot entirely on an iPhone 5s, showing smartphones can make festival-ready movies.

How do I plan and film a one-take movie with my child and their friends?

Start by brainstorming a short, simple story and sketch a 6–10 frame storyboard showing key beats and camera moves. Assign roles—director, actors, camera operator, prop manager—and rehearse blocking, timing and transitions slowly. Set the smartphone/camera on a stabilizer or tripod and test exposure and audio. Use safe, lightweight props and mark walking paths with tape. Do several timed run-throughs, then film your final single take, staying calm and cheering the kids.

What materials and equipment do we need to make a one-take movie?

You need a smartphone or video camera, a tripod or hand grip, extra batteries or charger, and a simple microphone if possible. Gather safe props, costumes, and lightweight set pieces, plus masking tape for floor marks, paper and pencils for storyboards, and a stopwatch for timing. Optional: small LED light, colored gels, and snacks for breaks. Keep everything age-appropriate and avoid sharp or heavy items.

What ages is filming a one-take movie suitable for?

This activity works well for kids ages 6–15 when adapted. Ages 6–8 can act and help with props under close adult supervision. Ages 9–12 can storyboard, time scenes, and assist with camera setup. Teens 13–15 can direct, plan effects, and manage the shoot. Match tasks to maturity, keep sessions short, and have adults handle sharp tools, heavy props, or complex equipment.

What are the benefits and safety tips for filming a one-take movie?

Filming a one-take movie builds planning, teamwork, timing, and storytelling skills while boosting confidence. It encourages problem-solving and creativity with low-cost effects. For safety, choose soft, non-toxic props, clear trip hazards, and set boundaries for camera movement. Supervise children near roads or water and avoid stunts. Use age-appropriate tasks, test loud sounds or lights beforehand, and keep first aid and water on hand. Celebrate every take to keep it fun.
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Film a one-take movie. Activities for Kids.