Help! I’ve been recruited for my company video! What should I expect for my first time on set?
If you’re reading this, then you’re probably not a professional actor. But, you’ve been summoned to participate in a company video by your marketing team.
You’ve got to play “woman walking with dog” or “customer in line,” and you have no idea what to expect.
We’ve been there before, so here’s a few tips for your first time on set.
1. Be Patient: It’s going to take longer than you think
A .60 second corporate marketing video doesn’t take that long to make, right? You only need a minute of footage. That’s like an hour tops, right?
Wrong. It could take anywhere from 4 hours to 12 hours or more depending on the scale of production.
Of course, not all .60 second videos take a full day of production. It depends on lots of factors, like the number of scenes, the story, the weather, etc.
But, chances are, it’s going to take longer than you think it will. Some scenes need more takes than others. Sometimes the production crew will want to try a scene a few different ways before committing to what works.
Sometimes talent gets a little grumpy or tired (especially if you’re working with young children), and they need to take a break.
So, embrace the workflow of the day, be patient, and enjoy your fifteen minutes of fame.
2. Bring a positive attitude
As we just explained, a day on set can be a very long day. Make sure to bring a positive attitude to help keep the energy up.
Rarely does a day of production go seamlessly. Producers have sharp problem-solving skills for a reason. Between lighting and weather and miscommunication at locations, there’s lots of details that can go wrong.
So, keep in mind your crew is probably a little stressed. They want to do their job well to deliver a top notch product for your company.
Make it easier on them by not complaining. Everyone there has a job to do.
Be a bright spot on set. Be willing to feel a little silly.
The crew knows you’re outside your comfort zone. And, people will remember and appreciate your good attitude.
3. Pay Attention to Your Surroundings
Elementary, my dear Watson. Put your phone away when you’re on set.
Set can be hectic, especially with large scale productions. It’s important to pay attention to know when the director needs you on camera.
A lot of time can be wasted looking for people who are supposed to be in a scene (and they’re playing on their phone down the hall).
Being present and paying attention is about courtesy. If you need to take a call or answer an email, just let someone know and make sure it’s not hindering the process.
Before you know it, you’ll hear: “That’s a wrap!”
