Anticipation

Well, that's it. I'm getting ready for yet another production. This time, it's a web series about an alien and some interviews. That's all I have right now. No script (even though I usually request to see a finished script prior to starting any new project), no money (that, I'm used to), but some great talent. I feel that usual trepidation over the new project. Will it be fun, will it be work, will it be a waste of time? Gads I hope not.

Keep yourself in line with yourself and you will be good to go. Dig this article: Ten Commandments of Filmmaking by Peter D. Marshall. If you don't already subscribe to his blog or site, make a point of doing so. You can also follow him on Facebook and he makes some great links for you to check out. He's an industry insider and has been for decades.

So on to the anticipation and using it to your advantage. I like to imagine what the shoot will be like long before the shoot actually begins. I imagine the set, how it will look on the script, how it will shoot out, how we can get it done on time, under budget, and with extreme professionalism. There are so many factors involved, it can make your head spin.

First, make a list of everything you think can and/or will happen. Since they're all running about in your head, write it down and elaborate wherever you can. Next, you should be having meetings of some kind with your producer, director, DP, costume, makeup, lights, grips, etc., etc. to nail down the details for the shoot. Now, you're getting prepared. Turn that nervous "I don't know" energy into something that will help you rather than harm you.

Next, let's do some blocking: you have the script, let's get it all blocked out so it looks good. Lean on the director for that one. Figure out what they have in mind. Now, take charge: Get the direction from the director and make it all happen. Don't be afraid to yell or make mistakes - it's gonna happen. Just go with it.

Now, get the crew ready once the blocking is done. Let the actors get ready and rehearse. Let them run lines and prepare. Now, you get the crew ready to light it, record it, shoot it, etc. Ready? Good. Ask the director if they're ready. When they are, make your calls: quiet on set, roll camera (get confirmation), roll audio (get confirmation), places, cue any other pre-action things ready (like effects or crowds), slate (if you are using external audio) - call scene, take, audio track, and wait for the director to call action. Watch and listen to everything.

I usually wind up doing script supervision, too (when I'm AD) so I'll end up doing that as well. Sometimes you get your own script sup/continuity supervisor, too. That's like disco, baby.

My ramble is nearly done. All that nervous energy can translate into real results for your production. Make it all happen the best way humanly possible. Imagine everyone saying they couldn't have done it without you. It happens. I know. It feels good and I thank everyone profusely for their kind words and assistance. Remember you are a team no matter what happens.

Be a team.