Study past works using still photographs to tell a story. Innovate with your project by understanding the style and what works. One successful narrative film using still photographs effectively is "La Jetee." The 1962 film succeeds in capturing audience interest while crafting a convincing post-apocalyptic world by using nothing but black-and-white photographs for visuals. It even inspired Terry Gilliam's feature-length film "Twelve Monkeys," starring Bruce Willis and Brad Pitt.
Decide whether the film is going to be a narrative or an experimental film exploring the medium. This will help inform the writers and producers. Experimental films have few conventions to follow, and the filmmaker should simply follow his instinct and curiosity. For narrative films, however, certain techniques can help make your short film a success.
Select a theme, characters and specific storyline. Start writing. Keep in mind stories using only still photographs need to tell a story differently than standard films, particularly because motion within the frame is not possible. If you're writing a kung-fu film emphasizing impressive physical movements, then a film using still frames might not be the best option.
Start taking photographs to fulfill your vision and script. Use equipment giving you an aesthetic with which you can work; for example, film vs. digital camera or set lighting vs. natural lighting. Begin with photographs not requiring any actors or living subjects first, as these likely will require less preparation than others. For a narrative film like "La Jetee," you should recruit actors to tell the story.
Rehearse with actors as if the film is being shot in real-time. Simply posing actors to convey a certain action runs the danger of looking forced. Unless you're going for a tableaux aesthetic, then rehearsing and photographing in real time is critical.
Record any necessary audio during performances, if possible. If not, get into a studio and record afterward. If you have two actors talking to each other for a scene, it might sound more realistic if the actors are actually talking to one another while you record.
Find a good video editing program so you can include and finesse all of the other elements of your film. Avid Media Composer is a professional program that will give you every tool you'll need. Final Cut Pro and Adobe Premiere are also comprehensive programs allowing you freedom to edit successfully.
Make sure the timing works with your creative vision and pacing. This is especially critical in a film using nothing but pictures. Use zooms or other moves on photographs to give life to an otherwise stale photograph. The techniques also can give some sense of motion without any actual movement within the frame. Editing to a music track or voice-over can help you figure out a timing that works.
Add sound effects to give more realism and to further indicate what's going on.
Screen your film for some feedback once you get to a good place. If necessary, make revisions to strengthen its effectiveness.
Share your work. Sites like YouTube and Vimeo allow you to showcase your film and make it accessible to anyone. Or, if you'd prefer to enter the festival market, start researching potential markets and submit your work.