After being in ATL for 12 weeks I finally got to be on set for, not one but, two productions back to back. One short film and one music video. On both sets I played different roles within the production team. The short film came first. Titled, "Twin Flame" I was assigned to originally be the camera assistant. However the DP (Colbie The Great) was ON IT. So I took the roll of a slate announcer?...the person with the clap board who calls out the scene and take. Additionally I took some behind the scenes pics. Check out some below, see more here.
The music video I got to be a production assistant on was drastically different. There were a lot more than just six people on set and one location. Instead we started at an architectural artist's house from 11am till about 5:00/6:00pm. The second location was at a production studio, and this didn't end until about 2:30am. In between all that time I was a runner, which is tedious work that no one honestly wants to do but it has to be done. I had to use my car roughly 10x to go out and buy things for the video and / or crew to use. The only thing that kept me going was the experience and knowing I was getting the opportunity to work with an artist I admired (Deante' Hitchcock). Check out some sharp shots I caught from set day here. Below are some quick tips and brief summary of this experience. Two sets down, a lifetime left to go.
Some "On Set" Terminology
Apple box: Hollow crate like boxes, sturdy enough to lay things on / stand on.
Martini: The final shot before the recording is done.
Playback: That’s yelled to cue the music.
Wish Shot: Beautiful shot you wish to do but only if time allows. Extra scene for beauty.
Points: Heads up, something sharp or with edges is being lifted / moved.
What I Learned - Summary
Bring a camera to set - Gives you access to everything.
Stay calm - There's a lot going on, easy to get lost / frustrated.
Ask questions - You're there to learn.
Learn names - Key to making connections and referring later for future work.
PA Work Isn't Fun - It's what you make it but you're here to learn and gain exposure.
AD’s (Assistant Directors) - are essential to lessen the load off a single director.
Terms - learn these as quickly as you can.
Make the best out of this time, network with people who do what you want to do.
Find out what’s going on from who ever hired you or watch director.
Be nice to everyone and introduce yourself.
Bored...help someone.
Don’t quit...as much as you want to.
Music video production and short films differ.