Category: Student Production Office

BEFORE THE SHOOT 

Be honest with your actors about what the shoot will require of them. Set expectations early and clearly about your rehearsal schedule and any sensitive or physically challenging work that will be required of them. 

DURING THE SHOOT 

Ensure actors have a private place to change and something accessible to cover up with between takes if they are performing scenes undressed or partially dressed. Do your best to provide a quiet rest area so that the actors can collect themselves between set-ups. Be sensitive to the emotional work they are doing to bring your film to life.  Create a plan to take care of the actor’s comfort and safety when shooting scenes that require repetitive eating, drinking, or physical activity. 

AFTER THE SHOOT 

Keep the actors informed about your post-production schedule. Let them know when you will be done with the project, when the screening is scheduled, and when they can expect their copy of the film. 

MAKE SURE ALL YOUR ACTORS GET A COPY OF THE PROJECT 

The reason actors want to work on student films is to get a tape of the film to show to agents and casting directors. If it’s going to take some time to finish the project, let them know. Call periodically and fill them in on your progress and reassure them that you haven’t forgotten them.  

Be up front about what deliverables you will provide your actors. It is standard to give actors a digital copy of the completed film, but some directors are happy to provide NON-COLOR CORRECTED raw footage with UNMIXED audio of their actor’s scenes for their reel. If you and your editor have the time to give actors a copy of their takes it goes a long way in creating mutual beneficial relationships. Remember to tell your actors to how you’ll allow them to use your media. You don’t want them editing their own film out of your footage!