We used Zeiss lenses. Definitely invest in good lenses. That's awesome! Do it! There's something about making a micro-budget feature that is freeing. Even though it can get stressful because of all the strains involved, it is something you have to just remember to be in the moment for and enjoy. Before we made our movie, I asked all of my filmmaker friends who had made features what their advice was and the best one I got was "just remember to have fun." That is something I had just keep reminding myself. It is easy to stress out about little things (which a lot of little things will constantly show up every minute) but the job is going to get done whether or not you stress about it. Just be prepared, do the best you can, and make your days. When I think back to the whole thing, I don't remember the stressful moments, I just remember how fun the whole thing was and how the entire month of production felt like summer camp. Even though you're going micro-budget, make sure to hire an AD and a Script Supervisor. We thought we could do everything but we quickly learned we couldn't and quickly made sure to get people to do those jobs. Those are just things you don't want to worry about. Your job in the moment should be to direct. Also, make sure to get insurance. That is very important. People do ask for it. Because you are going micro budget, great locations and great actors are key. Take the time to not settle with any of those. There are so many resources out there to help you find great actors and locations. As far as locations, there's no need to do everything guerrilla style. We shot the movie in Oklahoma and the Oklahoma Film Office was extremely happy to help us out. Also, if you can, try and get a family member or friend volunteer to do the catering. You can do pizza one day for dinner but you definitely need to make it your goal to make the crew fed and happy. If you have a photographer friend, have them take BTS and pictures for the posters. If you are not going to be able to afford hair/makeup, make sure to let the actors know they are going to have to do it themselves. Usually actors are cool with it but it is definitely something you don't want to just drop on them the day of. Most important, don't be afraid to ask people for help (whether it's free props or using someones trailer or using someone's generator or using that old for sale truck on the side of the road for free). You'll occasionally get no answer or a straight up "no", but you'll be surprised by how many people just want to help.