If you’ve created an effective production plan (see “Create a Production Plan”), you should have a relatively smooth production phase. However, surprises and unexpected opportunities always come up! Here’s a handy list of tips for how to have a great production experience, and common pitfalls to avoid.
During production, DO:
Find interesting ways to make all areas surrounding the camera interesting (front, back, sides, above, below)
Control the location so random people aren’t interrupting your set visually or aurally
Capture multiple takes and watch them in the phone before moving onto a new setup or wrapping production
During production, DON’T:
Underestimate the power of sound (if audio is important to the final product, consider how you will capture it on set)
Leave the camera unattended or unsecured.
Put the safety of your crew, your cast or yourself at risk