10 Things To Keep In Mind On The Set Of A Local TV Spot Shoot

10. Bring enough expendables.
You need to make sure you have more than enough batteries/battery life and tapes. Nothing is more frustrating (and looks more unprofessional) than running out of tape or battery life and having to end the shoot before you have the footage you need.

9. Know your equipment inside and out.
Being 100% familiar with your gear will make it that much easier to get the shot you are looking for. Also, if something goes wrong with the equipment, it will help you to pinpoint and fix the problem quickly and efficiently.

8. Be aware of utilities on set.
While on set, one of the first things that should be done is to check your surroundings for outlets. Be sure to plug only one light into a circuit of outlets at once – generally this means use only one outlet on a particular wall.

7. Bring gloves.
The lights will get hot, so gloves are going to be necessary when handling them. (Side note: Be sure that the gloves themselves will not melt or burn when touching hot surfaces. You would be surprised what materials do and do not burn.)

6. Use the microphone best suited for the production (and always avoid using the camera’s built-in mic).
Whether you choose to use a lavalier or boom mic, ALWAYS test the sound before actually shooting to check for ambient noise and/or distortion.

5. Be aware of camera settings.
For audio levels, you want to make sure the sound is neither clipping, nor too soft. Also be conscious of the various aspect ratio and frame rate options.

4. White Balance for every new lighting set up.

3. Get release forms before shooting.
Once set up is finished and before filming, you must make sure you have signed release forms from anyone recognizable in the frame.

2. Leave the location clean and undamaged.
After you have finished filming, always leave the location clean and undamaged. It’s a simple courtesy to the owners of the location.

1. Be respectful to everyone on set.
Whether it is toward talent, other crew members, or your boss, being respectful helps create a calmer atmosphere, makes work run smoother, and keeps networks open for future opportunities.


Desiree Holm
Intern, Propulsion Media Labs
Communication Major, Villanova University