Producing an Independent Film: Behind the Scenes of Par for the Course

Creating a TV series isn’t all streaming deals and studio backlots. For independent concepts like Par for the Course, the magic starts long before there’s a script read or camera setup—and often in very unconventional places (think: kitchen tables, group chats, and parking lots). Here’s a peek behind the scenes at what it really takes to produce an indie TV project from scratch.

The Steps from Story to Screen

1. It All Starts with an Idea

Every great series begins with a story, and Par for the Course was no different. What began as a casual “what if” joke among friends turned into the concept for a mockumentary-style comedy following the chaos and characters of local amateur golf. Once the seed was planted, we started building out the world, developing characters, and figuring out what made this a show—not just a skit.

2. Writing for a Pilot (On a Budget and a Deadline)

We knew we wanted to produce a short-format pilot episode—something that captured the tone, style, and world of the full series. Writing for television means balancing storytelling with practical logistics: Can we shoot this at a real location? Can the cast cover multiple roles? Do we really need a rain machine? Every page was written with the indie budget in mind.

3. Assembling the Team

TV pilots, especially independent ones, live or die by the crew. Our team came together through shared passion, local connections, and a whole lot of DIY energy. Everyone took on multiple roles: the director helped with production design, actors pitched jokes during takes, and the camera team doubled as the lighting crew.

On projects like this, flexibility and collaboration are everything. It’s less about job titles, more about shared vision.

4. Shooting a Pilot with Grit and Gear

With limited time and resources, we had to be agile. We shot Par for the Course using a Canon C100 MKII and a Canon 6D MKII with minimalist rig setups, favoring handheld and shoulder-mount shots to keep that documentary-style realism. We filmed on-location at a real golf course and bar, using the natural setting to enhance the mockumentary feel.

We didn’t have big studio equipment—but we did have determination, a few bounce boards, and a sharp eye for comedic timing.

5. Post-Production: Where It Becomes a Show

After filming wrapped, it was time to stitch it all together. Editing a pilot is about more than just cutting scenes—it’s about pacing, tone, and getting the comedic rhythm just right. We shaped the final episode in post with attention to sound design, timing, and mock-doc-style editing that sells the series’ format.

This is where the pilot really came into its own—and started feeling like the launchpad for a full show.

6. Sharing the Vision

Once the pilot was complete, the next step was building a home for it. Whether submitting to festivals, pitching to networks, or building this very website—parforthecourse.tv—our focus has always been to get the project seen by the right people. We want viewers, producers, and fans to see the potential behind the concept.

The Takeaway? Make the Show.

Creating an independent TV concept takes guts, hustle, and a healthy dose of humor. But when your idea makes people laugh—and gets people talking—you know it’s worth it. For us, Par for the Course is just the beginning of something bigger.

If you’ve got a concept of your own, don’t wait for permission. Start small. Build your team. Write the pilot. And bring your story to life.

Want more behind-the-scenes content from Par for the Course? Follow us on Instagram and stay tuned for cast features, production stills, and updates on where the show goes next.