Film Set Photography - Advice Please

[lensworx]

Hi all,

I have been asked if I would help out with a short film that is being shot by some students from my local university. I have said that I would be willing to do it and they are aware that I have not done this type of photography before.

they have requested that I document the making of the film as well as some back stage shots and promo shots for the poster etc...

can anyone give me any advice on how to about this?

Really looking forward to this and hoping to get some new shots for my portfolio at the same time. There are a number of short films going to be shot before long and I may get a chance to shoot some of the others if this one goes well.

Thanks in advance

Mark

 

[paulhinch]

What gear are you using?

Would imagine using a flash would be difficult / not allowed for any of the shots whilst their filming as it'd probably show up on film.

High ISO / Fast Lens required then to shoot in low-lighting?

Apart from that limitation, I'd treat it like any other job.

Sit down with them and find out what they're after before you start.
- Find out specific shots they're looking for (wide angle shot of the sets, promo portraits of actors, general candid / journalist style things of them making the film).
- Go to the locations with the director beforehand. Find out where he's wanting to shoot so you can plan a few set up shots that will look good but won't have you in the film frame.
- Get a feel for the type of film & therefore the type of pics they want (grainy b&W, gritty urban stuff or polished hollywood)....you'll be able to do a lot of that in post-production but it helps to work out set ups.

Just gather as much info as you can. Sit down and work out (with them if possible) what you've HAVE TO capture, make sure you get them in amongst general picking the moment stuff.

Know your gear (not as bad as something like a wedding as you'll probably get a few second chances with multiple takes on the filming but you don't want to be messing about working out the best mode / exposure settings etc whilst the moment passes).

Relax.

 

[paulhinch]

Sorry - just had a squizz at your website, your gear should be fine (thought you might be using a 1000d with a kit lens or something).

 

[awp]

If you're shooting while they're filming you'll need a Blimp. You don't ned to visit the locations in advance - you have to learn to suss that out when you get there. Stills are ot the most important thing the director has to think about. You'll get a brief and get on with it.

 

[lensworx]

Thanks for all the replies.

The only information that I have been given so far is that it is a" dystopian/Orwellian piece".

The film is being shot entirely in a studio, they have said that apart from the lights that they will be using for the shoot the whole studio will be blacked out.

I will be getting there early to give the place a once over before I start, I already have a good idea about the building it just the actual studio that I need to look at. got to meet the producer there so should get filled in better on the evening.

I will be using my 7D along with my 24-70 f/2.8 and maybe my 50mm f/1.8 if required.

Thanks all

Mark