New at making movies, any tips?

[SNJsharing]

Hey all,
Me and the missus have just started our proper movie making adventures,
And i was wondering if you guys had any tips on how to help our movies look a bit more professional.
Lighting is our main "problem" but all tips and thoughts as what to do are appreciated.
We have brought a couple of lamps to use but even with different watt globes they are too bright to be comfortable.
Does anyone here use lamps for lighting? And do u put covers infront of the globe to dim it down a bit? If so what type?
Hope to hear back from u guys soon and hopefully delight you all with our new film hobbie.
Thanks everyone.