Not often do we think of distribution as where to start. It would appear that because distribution is the last thing involved in making a movie that it would theoretically come last. This way of thinking, unfortunately, is what gets most filmmakers into trouble. Distribution should be the first thing that you do in developing a film. While you may not be able to easily land distribution for your film you will definitely learn a lot things that will help you to land distribution. This also allows you to decide what your ultimate goal for the project is.
Not all movies will be picked up by a distributor and not all distributors are the best option for indie filmmakers. You may want a theatrical release or are more interested in a direct to video deal, either way you need to make a decision as to where you want your project to end up. When this step is executed properly you will know the steps that are required during the full process in order to reach where you want to go.
In talking with distributors before your project begins you will see many advantages reveal themselves as opposed to if you jumped into the project, skipping this step. There are a number of things that keep distributors interested in a project varying from genre, production value, story and most importantly talent attached. There are various ways in which to make contacts and obviously it is better for you if you have something to show, but what I have found to be most successful for any situation is being honest with the distributors. Distributors are looking for projects that will make them money, so make sure that you are presenting them with questions that can help make your movie more marketable and ultimately help them or make their job easier. It is not a 100% guarantee that they will help you along the way but you may find that by including them in the process at an early stage will not only make your project better but may give you the possibility of landing a deal as soon as you are done.