Film Directing 127: Day One

Film Directing 127: Day One

Watch your actors like newborn babies

Your first day on set as a director will undoubtedly be memorable.

Every day of film production requires you to have a plan. The question is: can the scheduled work be completed in the allotted time?

Whatever happens, you’ll walk away knowing a lot more about your actors, yourself, and the challenges of directing.

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Film Directing 126: The Director's Playbook

Film Directing 126: The Director's Playbook

Directors need a strong idea for what they’re looking for in every scene

After all the planning, preparation, meetings, auditions, rehearsals, location scouts, etc. – the first day of principle photography is what all the work has been about.

Your script analysis, thumbnail frames, shotlist, schematics, and meetings with your creative keys have helped build the plan for the production.

Pre-thinking performance notes and details are a vital part of the playbook.

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Film Directing 125: The Production Meeting

Film Directing 125: The Production Meeting

Gather round, everybody! We are ready to roll!

The production meeting is a review of all the details and moving parts of the production with all of the people involved in the shoot.

There are different ways to approach the meeting but the goal is always the same: to ensure that all departments and all personnel are in the know and ready to go.

This is a leadership moment for the directing team. Make it count!

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Film Directing 117: The Director's Schedule

Film Directing 117: The Director's Schedule

The schedule runs the engine of production

Films are rarely shot in chronological order. Creating the production plan, crafting an efficient schedule, and deciding on the best order for shooting your film is done with your assistant director.

There are many puzzle pieces to a shooting schedule. Weather forecasts, location access, equipment availability, and actor availability can all create logistical challenges. A well-organized schedule lets you get the work for the day done in the allotted time with strong performances and a sense that everyone is pleased with their efforts.

Take care when building your schedule. It will pay off with a good directing experience.

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