Heading into a shoot without a solid plan? That could welcome some trouble. Good preparation is the secret to avoiding those last-minute scrambles and ensuring everything runs like clockwork. From double-checking gear lists to prepping your team, we have the experience to ensure you have a productive shoot day. Continue reading as we provide top tips for prepping your set, ensuring you’re completely prepared.
Check, then Check Again
Following the steps below sets the stage for a successful and efficient filming day. Plan on filming at a studio? Use ours! We’ll help you every step of the way.
Pre-Shoot Planning
Scheduling: Start by crafting a realistic timeline for your shoot. This should cover the filming itself as well as the necessary setup and wrap-up times. Effective scheduling ensures that the day progresses smoothly without rushing through important shots or missing critical details.
Script and Storyboards: Don’t underestimate the power of a well-prepared script and thorough storyboards. These tools are crucial for guiding your shoot and ensuring that everyone, from the director to the camera operator, understands the vision and sequence of events.
Equipment Checklist
Camera and Lighting: List every piece of equipment you’ll need, focusing on cameras and lighting rigs. Always have backups ready—it’s better to have something and not need it than the other way around. This ensures a productive shoot day even if your main equipment fails.
Audio Gear: Double-check your audio setup before the shoot. Ensure all equipment, including spare mics and extra batteries, are functioning correctly to avoid audio mishaps, which can be costly in post-production.
Location Readiness
Scouting and Permits: Visit your locations ahead of time. Whether you’re shooting in a studio or on location, understanding the space is critical. Also, secure all necessary permits to avoid any legal hiccups on the day of the shoot.
Set Design and Layout: Plan the layout of your set meticulously. A well-thought-out set design enhances the visual appeal and optimizes the space for practical use during the shoot.
Crowd Briefing
Roles and Responsibilities: Clearly define each crew member’s roles and responsibilities. This will prevent task overlap and ensure no essential roles are overlooked.
Communication Tools: Implement efficient communication tools. Whether it’s traditional walkie-talkies or modern apps, choose what keeps your team connected across the set, especially in vast or multiple locations.
Rehearsals
Technical Run-Through: Conduct a technical rehearsal with your camera and lighting teams. This practice helps identify and adjust any technical glitches before they become problematic.
Actor Rehearsal: Allow time for your actors to rehearse on set. This helps them familiarize themselves with their movements and timings relative to the camera and props, ensuring a more natural performance.
On-the-Day Checklists
Last-Minute Checks: Have a comprehensive checklist for the morning of the shoot. This should include equipment, script, props, and wardrobe checks to ensure everything goes as planned.
Backup Plans: Always have a Plan B. Whether it’s changing weather conditions or equipment failure, being prepared with alternatives ensures that your shoot goes on, no matter what surprises the day may bring.
Film at Our In-House Studio
A productive shoot day is built on thorough preparation, meticulous planning, and clear communication. By ensuring you have a comprehensive pre-shoot plan, you’re setting up your project for success.
When you work with Legion Films, you will find an environment where creativity meets technology, enabling you to bring your vision to life with precision. Our in-house studio is designed to cater to a wide range of video production needs and is equipped with all the tools and technology necessary to ensure a seamless filming experience.
Ready to take your video production to the next level? Contact us today to discuss how we can help make your next project a resounding success.