We all love being in control. But as with anything in life, sometimes we’re not. And shoot day is no exception.
Awhile back we did a full day shoot with some adorable children for ECR4Kids out of San Diego, CA. But, as adorable as they were, they were still kids. Allowing for some playtime within the pre-made schedule is essential when working with children. And–keeping it real–take and retake and retake again is common working with anyone. And necessary.
“Padding” is extra space to work with. At any shoot it is essential. You should NEVER assume your day will go just as planned. Even if it does, additional time will enhance the shoot. For instance, it may allow you to get some different versions of things that are even better than you captured at first. It will also allow for some “refresh” times for cast and crew and will make the day feel both ‘safer’ and more successful in the long run.
Some good questions to ask pre-filming day are:
Having too many people on set doesn’t always aid performance or efficiency (or feel “comfy” in this post-pandemic world). Of course, discovering and discussing should be allowed (and encouraged!) on any production. But keep a keen awareness to what is helping and what is detracting.
Remember, let your cast and crew do what you hired and entrusted them to do. Know when to speak up and when to let the creative happen. As the saying goes, “Good things take time…great things take a little longer.”