Film Directing 128: That's a Wrap!

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LEVEL 100 blogs are for film students and first-time directors taking on the directing role for a short film. The series is designed to help and guide new filmmakers through the director’s prep duties, pre-production activities, and principle photography dynamics.

The production crew may be finished, but you’re not!

Whether your shoot was one day, one week, or one month, it’s important to stay classy every day you’re on set and treat your co-creators with respect.

Before your 1st AD calls it a wrap, the crew has likely been anticipating the number of shots remaining in the day. Knowing the work to be done helps everyone manage their time, energy, and responsibilities on set.

The last shot for a day or at a location is called the ‘window shot.’ The second to last shot is called the ‘abby shot.’ Filmmakers love their lingo. Learning the language of film is important.  

 When the shoot is officially finished and “That’s a wrap” has been called on the final day, there’s a collective sense of celebration.

 Finishing production is a major milestone. Emotions can run high. Along with the cast and crew, you may feel both overjoyed and exhausted. And rightly so. A lot of energy and effort has gone into getting your project to this point.

Some directors, however, can have a tendency to dwell on what didn’t happen: what they wanted and didn’t get, setups that were rushed, shots that were missed altogether.

If you find yourself second-guessing your situation and the dynamics of what happened, try to let go of any post-shoot negativity.

Sometimes the best-laid plans get derailed. It happens all the time. Especially to first-time directors working with amateur actors and crew. It’s a learning experience.

Chalk it up and stay positive. The cast and production crew may be finished, but you’re not! You have many miles to go.

* * *

After everything is said and done, and before you walk away from set, there are some things to do and some stuff to remember:

  • Gather your script and scribble notes, you’ll need them in the editing room

  • Organize a cast and crew photo

  • Take selfies and personal photos with cast and crew

  • Arrange to get photos from others that feature the characters, makeup, set, location, equipment, etc.

  • Pitch in with the wrap if it’s a small crew and you know where things go

  • Let others know when you are leaving set – but before you go…

  • Thank everyone!  

All good things must come to an end. Walk away with a smile knowing that you gave it your best effort.

Ideally, there’ll be time to take a bit of a break and catch your breath. It’s good to recharge your creative batteries as you head on to postproduction. This is where your story truly comes together and you’ll be better off with a fresh perspective.

Yes, there will be surprises waiting for you in the editing room. Hopefully, they are pleasant ones.

* * *

And… that’s a wrap for LEVEL 100 Film Directing Fundamentals. It’s been quite a ride, but the best is yet to come.

Buckle up! NEXT STOP: LEVEL 200 Directing through Postproduction.

See you there!