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Can indie films really afford good VFX? Absolutely. In this special episode of VFX for Indies, we sit down with an all-star panel of visual effects veterans who presented at South by Southwest 2025, discussing the very topic indie filmmakers wrestle with every day—how to make visual effects work on real-world budgets.
Join host Paul DeNigris (Foxtrot X-Ray) and guests Laura Skowronski Nattam, Joey Cade, Shaina Holmes, and Laurie Powers Going as they share stories from the trenches, insider advice, and actionable tips on working smarter with visual effects.
📚 We also spotlight the new book Visual Effects for Indie Filmmakers by Laurie and Shaina—a must-read guide filled with practical insights from decades of VFX experience. Use code VisEffects2025 for 25% off at Routledge through August 18!
💡 Topics covered:
How indie filmmakers really use VFX
Why planning early with your VFX team saves money
The truth about green screen suits and "fixing it in post"
When to use stock assets vs. custom builds
What to do before you shoot that phone screen scene
🎟️ Whether you're just breaking into indie filmmaking or a seasoned pro trying to stretch your budget, this episode is packed with useful takeaways.
👉 Watch Part 2 of this discussion next week — and don't forget to subscribe for more episodes like this one.
🔗 Book Discount and Links:
📖 Visual Effects for Indie Filmmakers | Code: VisEffects2025
https://www.routledge.com/Visual-Effects-for-Indie-Filmmakers-A-Guide-to-VFX-Integration-and-Artist-Collaboration/Holmes-PowersGoing/p/book/9781032282060
📖 Visual Effects for Indie Filmmakers | Amazon Affiliate Link
https://amzn.to/4jrVMwX
🔗 Find out more about all our panelists at: https://linktr.ee/VFXforIndies
#VFXforIndies #VisualEffects #SXSW2025 #IndieFilm #FilmmakingTips #VFXBudget #PostProduction #filmeducation
Chapters
00:00 Introduction to Visual Effects in Indie Film
01:26 Panelist Introductions and Backgrounds
09:41 Diverse Paths to Visual Effects
19:15 The Importance of Visual Effects in Indie Filmmaking
20:11 Insights from the South by Southwest Panel
29:26 Building Community Through Discord
29:42 Understanding Visual Effects Costs
31:30 The Role of Pre-Production in VFX
32:15 The Importance of Clean Plates
35:33 Planning for Visual Effects
44:13 Advice for Filmmakers on VFX
46:30 Using Stock Assets vs. Custom Builds
50:16 Effective Communication with VFX Teams
54:02 The Value of Early Consultation with VFX Professionals

Hosted by Foxtrot X-Ray’s founder and “chief pixel pusher” Paul DeNigris, who brings to the conversation 30 years of experience in both independent filmmaking and visual effects, as well as 20 years of experience in teaching all aspects of digital filmmaking at the university level.
For episodes, transcripts, and more, visit http://vfxforindies.com
For more information about what Foxtrot X-Ray can do for your film, visit https://foxtrotxray.com