How to Start Your Own Production House in the Modern Era

Starting your own production house in the current climate of filmmaking and media production can seem daunting, but it doesn't require an extensive background or numerous resources to get started.

When I first moved to Los Angeles in 1991, I was told that to be a producer, you simply needed to declare yourself one and start producing. This wisdom, which still holds true today, is simply to recognize the need for grit and determination in the face of uncertainty. Now, in late 2024, while the landscape has shifted with the advent of ubiquitous cell phones, the essence of this advice remains the same. So, whether you're producing for theatrical features, network television, streaming platforms, or any other medium, the key is to start small and build from there.

Choosing Your Production House

Once you decide to produce stories using motion pictures, the next step is to choose a name for your production house. This name should reflect your vision and be memorable. My production entity is Calix8 Productions, a straightforward nomenclature that emphasizes both the project and the producer.

The next crucial step is to define the type of content you wish to produce. This could be theatrical features, network television, basic cable television, premium cable television, or features for streaming platforms. Each category has its unique requirements and challenges, and understanding your end use is paramount. For instance, a spec television show has a different production flow compared to a feature produced for a specific writer or director, and a documentary has yet another set of considerations.

Understanding the Devil in the Details

The production house must navigate the devil in the details. This often involves understanding the timelines, budgets, and logistical challenges of each project. The production of a one-day shoot for a spec television show is different from a feature film that will be shot in December or a documentary in post-production. Each project demands a tailored approach, and these differences can make the production process complex.

A famous quote from Dick Cheney regarding the Rumsfeld Matrix (knowledge of knowns, known unknowns, and unknown unknowns) highlights the complexity of the production process. It's important to recognize that while you may know what you know, there are always areas of uncertainty that you don't fully understand.

Learning by Doing

The greatest teacher in the world of production is action. The Rumsfeld Matrix suggests that the only way to understand all the unknowns is to start producing something. This is entirely true. Start with a simple project and build from there. Whether it's a short film, a viral video, or a personal documentary, the key is to begin producing.

Consider the smartphone and personal computer analogy: everyone has a camera and an editing system at home. So, why aren't you making motion picture stories yet? The tools are already in your hands. Utilize what you have, add your name to your project, and start producing.

Resources and Tools

For those looking to start their own production house, the following resources and tools can be invaluable:

Camera and Editing Software: Your smartphone, DSLR, or videocam paired with free or affordable editing software such as Daemontoast or Captivate Video. Scriptwriting Tools: Software such as Final Draft or SavePlaintext can help with scriptwriting. Freelance Collaboration: Platforms like or Upwork can help in finding collaborators and freelancers for various aspects of the production.

In conclusion, starting your own production house requires a clear vision, a willingness to adapt, and a commitment to learning through practice. Embrace the journey, and don't let the unknowns hold you back. Begin producing today.