A successful production day doesn’t happen by chance. It requires meticulous planning, strong communication, and attention to detail. Whether you’re shooting a commercial, a feature film, or a corporate video, these 10 tips from industry pros will help you prepare for and execute a smooth, stress-free production day.
1. Start with a Clear Shot List
A well-prepared shot list serves as your production roadmap. It outlines every scene, angle, and detail you need to capture. Share this list with your crew in advance so everyone knows what to expect and can stay on schedule.
2. Communicate Early and Often
Effective communication is the backbone of a smooth production. Hold a pre-production meeting with your team to review the schedule, equipment, and roles. During the shoot, use walkie-talkies or team communication apps to stay connected.
3. Confirm Your Crew and Talent
Double-check that everyone involved—crew, talent, and extras—has confirmed their availability. Share call sheets with clear details on call times, locations, and contact information to avoid last-minute confusion.
4. Test Your Equipment Beforehand
Nothing derails a production day faster than equipment failures. Test cameras, lighting, teleprompters, and audio gear the day before to ensure everything is in working order. Bring backup equipment for critical items, just in case.
5. Scout the Location in Advance
Visit your filming location before production day to evaluate lighting conditions, power access, and potential challenges. Knowing the layout helps your team set up quickly and address any issues ahead of time.
6. Stick to a Realistic Schedule
Build extra time into your schedule for unforeseen delays. Break the day into manageable blocks with specific goals for each segment, and always include time for setup, breakdown, and meal breaks.
7. Keep Essentials on Hand
Pack a “production day kit” with essentials like gaffer tape, extra batteries, spare memory cards, first aid supplies, and snacks. These small items can make a big difference when time is tight.
8. Plan for Contingencies
Weather, last-minute cancellations, or technical glitches can disrupt the day. Have a backup plan in place, such as alternative locations or flexible crew members, to minimize downtime.
9. Prioritize Crew and Talent Comfort
Happy people make for a productive shoot. Provide adequate meals, snacks, and water for everyone. If the shoot runs long, ensure there’s a comfortable area for breaks.
10. Wrap with Care
At the end of the day, ensure all equipment is accounted for and safely packed. Conduct a quick post-shoot meeting to review what went well and address any issues. Thank your team for their hard work—it sets the tone for future collaborations.
Bonus Tip: Partner with Experts
Consider working with a company like See Production Services to streamline your production process. With expert teleprompter operators, video assist technicians, and high-quality equipment rentals, we help make your production day as smooth as possible.
By following these tips, you’ll not only set the stage for a successful production day but also create an environment where creativity and collaboration can thrive. Ready to take the stress out of your next shoot? Contact See Production Services today!
