Here are the five most important things every crew member should do for optimal production results the moment they arrive on set.
Cover image via Gorlov-KV.
Film and video production sets come in many shapes, sizes, and forms, yet they all share at least something in common: they can be dangerous places for people and expensive gear. They also can get quite busy and cramped, causing moments of confusion when you need to scramble to find power outlets or light sources in a pinch.
To avoid any holdups, here are the five most important things you should do the moment you arrive on set to make sure your production runs smoothly, safely, and professionally.
Find a Safe Place for Gear
Image via gnephoto.
This begins well before you arrive on set. When gathering your gear at home, in the office, or at your local rental house, you need to protect it during all aspects of transportation and setup. Consider weather, temperature, and surface availability when deciding on travel cases and shells. When you first walk on set, look for spots that are out of the way but still accessible, where you can keep an eye on your gear and access it quickly without tripping people up.
Look at Light Sources
Image via Studio 72.
When you evaluate your set for the first time (after safely storing your gear), lighting is your main concern. Unless you’re working on a soundstage, natural lighting fixtures like windows or doors will be your biggest challenges to controlling the light in the environment. Doing a walkthrough (if you haven’t already) to prepare any windows you need to black out, or where to put your production lights, is key. Plus, lighting setups can often be the most laborious aspects of production, so it’s best to get on it right away.
Locate Power Outlets
Image via gnephoto.
Power sources and outlets are another pressing matter. Depending on your production camera(s) and gear, you may run through dozens of batteries or need dedicated generators. For locations with power, finding and carving out safe spaces for power cords and adapters is a crucial first step. For outdoor and remote locations, finding the safest and most optimal spot for your generators is your primary concern.
Consider Noises and Audio Concerns
Image via Gorlov-KV.
When you’re first arriving at a shoot (and going through your other concerns), keep your ears open for noises your equipment may pick up. Everything from subtle hums created by lighting fixtures or appliances to occasional flyovers by airplanes needs attention. If you don’t get the chance to scout the location before the day of your production, you’ll need to be on your toes about new sounds that may pop up at anytime.
Take Note of Safety and Amenities
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Finally, while everything else may help ensure a solid production, this will ensure your sanity. Scope out the facilities on your shoot, and take into account the size of your crew. We’re not just talking about restrooms — consider sinks and wash stations as well as safety items like fire extinguishers and emergency exists. If you notice shortages early enough, you can arrange for travel accommodations to better facilities or bring in safety gear of your own.