...and action!
Today is the first shoot of a new project. There’s an element of excitement tinged with trepidation. Anticipation of the project to come mixed with the daunting reality. After all the discussion, the planning, the storyboarding and the budgeting – it all becomes real.
The moment the camera turns over for the first time in a project is a tangible culmination of the different competences used in the pre-production stage. It’s just like the skills test in the Professional Masterchef kitchen – unless the chefs know how to make a meringue that is light and fluffy, then they won’t be able to execute a soufflé that meets the high standards set by Marcus Wareing.
For me, the overall emotion of the first shot is excitement. That moment when Ryan, the director, shouts action is just spine tingling. However, like the start of any project, that moment can set the tone for the entire venture.
The first shot should mean the right team is in place. For us, it’s vital the director of photography should have the right skills for the overall look of the final films. Our new project needs fluidity within a rigid structure. We also need someone who makes our participants at ease – none of them are professionals and they’re all nervous. Having the suitable team in place that matches the project requirements is vital.
A project manager will always know the deliverables. So as the first scene is framed, we should know where it fits into the outcome. It’s not point, shoot and hope for the best; everything should be focused on providing the agreed result for the client. Each question that will form the final narrative, each shot – all has purpose for the final film. We know in detail what needs to be done for us to deliver and we know it will meet – and exceed – expectations.
As well as the outcome, should also know the steps to get there. When making a gin and tonic, the outcome is the flavor. But unless the ratio between gin and tonic is perfect with the right amount of ice and lemon (or cucumber depending on your choice of gin), then it may not be a good as it could be. Understanding the desired outcome is important, but knowing each step to execution is essential.
But let’s go back to the spine tingling moment of the first ‘action’. It’s that emotion that will influence the entire project. The job of a producer is to lead, coerce, cajole and coax the project to its conclusion. It's about gaining the team’s commitment and firing their passion to elevate this project from good to great. Bring it on!
#videoproduction #projectmanagement #videodirector
