How do you work with other field production pros on multi-camera shoots?

1 Plan ahead

Before you start shooting, you need to have a clear plan of what you want to capture, how you want to capture it, and who is responsible for what. You should create a storyboard, a shot list, a script, and a schedule that outline the vision, the goals, and the logistics of the shoot. You should also assign roles and tasks to each member of the crew and make sure everyone knows what they are expected to do and when. Planning ahead will help you avoid confusion, conflicts, and delays on the day of the shoot.

3 Sync your cameras

One of the most important aspects of working with other field production pros on multi-camera shoots is syncing your cameras. Syncing your cameras means making sure that they have the same settings, such as frame rate, resolution, white balance, and exposure, and that they record the same timecode, which is a numerical code that marks each frame of video. Syncing your cameras will make it easier to edit and match the footage from different angles and perspectives. You can sync your cameras manually, by using a clapboard or a stopwatch, or automatically, by using a wireless device or a software.

4 Monitor your shots

Another essential aspect of working with other field production pros on multi-camera shoots is monitoring your shots. Monitoring your shots means checking the quality, the composition, and the continuity of the footage that you are capturing. You can monitor your shots by using the built-in screens or viewfinders of your cameras, or by using external monitors or devices that connect to your cameras. Monitoring your shots will help you adjust your settings, correct your mistakes, and improve your performance.

5 Respect your boundaries

Working with other field production pros on multi-camera shoots can be fun and rewarding, but it can also be stressful and frustrating. You need to respect your boundaries and the boundaries of others to maintain a positive and professional atmosphere. You should respect your boundaries by following the rules, the guidelines, and the expectations of the shoot, by not interfering with other people's work, and by not taking things personally. You should respect the boundaries of others by listening to their opinions, by accepting their feedback, and by supporting their efforts.

6 Learn from each other

Working with other field production pros on multi-camera shoots is also a great opportunity to learn from each other. You can learn from each other by observing how different people approach different situations, by asking questions and sharing tips, and by giving and receiving compliments and criticism. You can also learn from each other by reviewing the footage together, by discussing the strengths and weaknesses of the shoot, and by celebrating the achievements and the challenges of the shoot. Learning from each other will help you grow as a field production pro and as a team player.

7 Here’s what else to consider

This is a space to share examples, stories, or insights that don’t fit into any of the previous sections. What else would you like to add?