The day of a shoot can be stressful. It is of course necessary, however, to get your video project complete. So how can you make it run smoother? Here are our 4 tips for shoot day, to help you achieve that goal.
Go with the Flow
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.
Always Build ‘Padding’ in Pre-Shoot
“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.
Prioritize What’s Most Important
Some good questions to ask pre-filming day are:
- What if your shoot was cut much shorter than anticipated. What shots would you hope to get the most?
- What elements are most costly and would be the worst to have to reschedule?
- When in the day would you know you had enough for the video? And then you could be at ease, knowing the rest of the shoot was extra and would only enhance the story.
- What will require the most energy of your cast and crew? Do that first.
Don’t Crowd or Hover
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.”