On-Set Production – Class Exercise 1

14-10-2023

For our first exercise, we were presented with a one-page script, list of props, and three hours to mark-up the script, create a shot-list, dress the set, designate an actor and rehearse, set up equipment and shoot to our plan. This was a great challenge as it required us to prioritise and work efficiently as a crew in order to be ready to shoot.

This was done in our production groups that were arranged outside of class, and I was 2nd AC for the purpose of this exercise. I assisted in setting up the camera, which made the process seem less intimidating and I quickly grasped the order of assembly and learnt about new aspects of cinema cameras. I was also responsible for marking up the clapperboard with the necessary information, which required me to be in constant communication with Oliwia, our DOP, and Owen, our director.

I also observed the process of Oliwia advising and collaborating with Lewis, our gaffer, on lighting setups. This is an area of cinematography that I feel I need more knowledge in, so in future weeks I may get some more hands-on, practical experience with lighting a set.

Due to timing we only created one set-up, but the process from beginning with a script and a prop list to being ready to go for takes was a valuable experience. It emphasised the importance of time-keeping – and a good AD – and organisation and communication across departments.

The final shot has a nice warmth to the image, and I like the way the light interacts with the props and our actor, Cat. The colours are all very complimentary, particularly the vibrant pink top with the warm-toned lighting. Oliwia opted for a 24mm lens for our establishing wide shot on short tripod legs to create a sense of scale and wide depth of field.

As it was our first time working together, we were able to see the different working styles and individual strengths and weaknesses in each role – which is invaluable at this stage as we will work closely on future exercises. Although I would prefer a HOD role, it is also beneficial to work in crew roles to learn how to communicate and work with HODs.

I found the introduction to crew rehearsals as a practice very useful, as it’s not something I’ve practiced on other projects or sets until now. It’s a low-pressure way of running through a scene with an actor and allows any issues to be resolved before shooting.

Acting rehearsals with our actor, Cat, while crew set up was also very successful. It allowed for blocking and full rehearsals to take place before crew rehearsals – from observation, it allowed for the director to focus on working with our actor to make creative decisions with minimal pressure.