08.12.20
MK3 Shoot Day Checklist
Live action, in-person video production is making a comeback. We’re seeing more and more clients considering (and scheduling) on-location video shoots. And while there are guidelines we’re following to help keep people safe, we can’t forget the “evergreen” guidelines for a successful shoot! To help you stay on top of your shoot day, we’ve put together this checklist that our producers swear by.
Print. It. Out.
We live in a digital world, but good old fashioned paper still has its place – and that place is on-location! Video production is fast-paced and hands-on, so you can’t rely on your location’s wi-fi access or ask your crew to read from handheld devices – chances are they have their hands full already! On the day of your shoot, or even the night before, print out hard copies of the production schedule, shot lists, storyboards and interview questions – whatever you’re going to need during the shoot. This will help everyone keep track of what needs to happen and when. Print out enough copies of the production schedule for the crew and clients (pro tip: a few extras never hurt). Of course, be sure to recycle the paper at the end of the day!
Keep in Touch
Communication is always key! Be sure to gather cell phone numbers and email addresses for the cast, crew and clients ahead of time and put them in your phone. Send important documents and information out at least one day before the shoot day, keeping everyone up to date on the schedule and shoot locations. Bolded and/or highlighted text within an email is a good attention-getting trick.
Meet Everyone’s Basic Needs
Video shoot days are long ones – and sometimes projects require several of them. Make sure everyone’s needs are met – even the most basic ones. Food and water is a must, and with any outdoor shoot, make sure there’s a bathroom onsite – it’s a small but important detail. Check on dietary restrictions and include meals (and their delivery times) in the schedule. Oh, and don’t forget – early mornings require coffee! A good shoot usually starts with caffeinated clients and crew!
Stay Organized
No matter how thorough your shoot schedule is, you won’t be able to plan for everything. Be flexible and ready to adapt. But stay organized! You might fall a bit behind schedule…and that’s okay! As the day progresses, keep track of the shots that are taking longer and always look for ways to make up time. They often present themselves in ways you’d least expect.
Go the Extra Mile
We’ll say it again: “a few extras never hurt.” Pack a bag with extra talent and location releases, schedules, pens, makeup powder, etc. One thing you can always plan on is that someone will forget something. And with the current safety guidelines, don’t forget to bring extra masks and hand sanitizer.
The morning of a video shoot can be a bit nerve-wracking, but staying organized and prepared can make the difference between a day of problems or a day of productivity. For more help organizing your next video shoot, reach out to info@test-mk3.local.
Live action, in-person video production is making a comeback. We’re seeing more and more clients considering (and scheduling) on-location video shoots. And while there are guidelines we’re following to help keep people safe, we can’t forget the “evergreen” guidelines for a successful shoot! To help you stay on top of your shoot day, we’ve put together this checklist that our producers swear by.
Print. It. Out.
We live in a digital world, but good old fashioned paper still has its place – and that place is on-location! Video production is fast-paced and hands-on, so you can’t rely on your location’s wi-fi access or ask your crew to read from handheld devices – chances are they have their hands full already! On the day of your shoot, or even the night before, print out hard copies of the production schedule, shot lists, storyboards and interview questions – whatever you’re going to need during the shoot. This will help everyone keep track of what needs to happen and when. Print out enough copies of the production schedule for the crew and clients (pro tip: a few extras never hurt). Of course, be sure to recycle the paper at the end of the day!
Keep in Touch
Communication is always key! Be sure to gather cell phone numbers and email addresses for the cast, crew and clients ahead of time and put them in your phone. Send important documents and information out at least one day before the shoot day, keeping everyone up to date on the schedule and shoot locations. Bolded and/or highlighted text within an email is a good attention-getting trick.
Meet Everyone’s Basic Needs
Video shoot days are long ones – and sometimes projects require several of them. Make sure everyone’s needs are met – even the most basic ones. Food and water is a must, and with any outdoor shoot, make sure there’s a bathroom onsite – it’s a small but important detail. Check on dietary restrictions and include meals (and their delivery times) in the schedule. Oh, and don’t forget – early mornings require coffee! A good shoot usually starts with caffeinated clients and crew!
Stay Organized
No matter how thorough your shoot schedule is, you won’t be able to plan for everything. Be flexible and ready to adapt. But stay organized! You might fall a bit behind schedule…and that’s okay! As the day progresses, keep track of the shots that are taking longer and always look for ways to make up time. They often present themselves in ways you’d least expect.
Go the Extra Mile
We’ll say it again: “a few extras never hurt.” Pack a bag with extra talent and location releases, schedules, pens, makeup powder, etc. One thing you can always plan on is that someone will forget something. And with the current safety guidelines, don’t forget to bring extra masks and hand sanitizer.
The morning of a video shoot can be a bit nerve-wracking, but staying organized and prepared can make the difference between a day of problems or a day of productivity. For more help organizing your next video shoot, reach out to info@test-mk3.local.