How do you estimate the necessary budget very roughly?

"At first, decide what the most important elements of your story are and create a vision based on the way you would like to make your film. Filmbudgets can differ a lot from each other. It depends on countless elements. For example: Does your story take place in the present or in the past or future? Have a look at the needed shooting locations. Do you have a lot of cast or extra's? Where are you planning to shoot? What equipment do you want to rent? Does your story contain stunts, animals, special cars or other specialties? Do you want to work with a professional crew or with a younger, less experienced crew? Everything costs money but in general you can say that the fee of cast and crew, art, locations, equipment, transportation and catering services have the most impact on the budget."

As a new filmmaker it can be difficult to enter the film funding institutions. How important is a big budget in case of short films and what other suggestions do you have for the funding?

"Keep in mind that a big budget is not always necessarily needed to make a good film. It really depends on what you want to make. What does the story need? For example, there are even whole feature length films made by only three people and shot on an iPhone. The Netherlands Film Fund is one of the biggest funds in the Netherlands for supporting films. They are very open to new filmmakers and support new film talents. You can always call them for information on upcoming deadlines or other questions you have. There are also more ways to finance your short film. For example, you can do applications at funds that support artists in their development. Or you can look for funds that fit the theme (or sub-themes) of your story well. It is also possible to contact a (public) broadcaster of a VOD platform that wants to invest in your project. You can do an application at regional funds or write to the township where you are planning to shoot. Besides named funding options, you can also search for private investors or start a crowdfunding campaign."

From the producer’s point of view: What is the best tip you can give to filmmakers when they are developing a short film?

"Write what you want to see and what you want to make and not what others expect you to make. Making films is a lot of work and it can take over all your headspace, so make something you really want to spend all your energy on. Choose stories that you feel need to be brought to the big screen and stories that will surprise you in multiple ways. Surround yourself with positive and inspiring people. You may hear many ‘no's’, but find a lesson in every hardship. Finally, never take criticism from people you would not go to for advice."