Essential Pre-Production Checklist for Independent Film Shoots

Visualizing the Production Day

Before you take the plunge into shooting your first independent film, it's crucial to create a comprehensive pre-production checklist. This checklist will ensure that every aspect of the shoot is meticulously planned, from the actors to the equipment and beyond. Here’s a detailed list of what you should consider: Who will be coming to set and when do they need to be there? How and when did you notify them? What happens if one is missing? What location are you going to use? What equipment is needed and how did it get there? Is there enough space for all the equipment? Does any of the equipment need power? Are there enough outlets and sufficient amperage? How will the actors and crew be on the set? Is there enough ventilation? Is the location quiet enough? What is the lighting situation like? Do you need to use or block daylight? What about makeup? What about costumes, food, and a waiting area? Are there any bathrooms available? Does makeup need to be removed after the shoot?

By visualizing and mentally walking through all of these elements, you can anticipate potential issues and prepare accordingly to avoid any last-minute stress.

Feeding Your Crew

While feeding your crew is important, it’s more than just a pizza run. Hire a caterer who can provide both vegetarian and regular meal options. A well-fed cast and crew make a low-budget production a success. Some might argue that catering a budget film is unnecessary, but it’s worth the investment. A well-fed crew will perform better, leading to a higher quality final product. Watch the vegetarian food disappear daily to ensure it’s meeting everyone's needs.

Avoiding Common Mistakes

Micro-budget independent films often suffer from a few common mistakes that can ruin an otherwise promising project. Here are some key areas to avoid:

1. Poor Casting

If you're on a tight budget and can’t afford union actors, you might turn to friends or community members for casting. Some may have talent, while others may not. Hold casting sessions, use free ad services to spread the word, and repeat the process until you find the right talent for your film. If you're working from a dialogue-specific script, be prepared to fire a collaborator if necessary. This might damage relationships, but it's important to prioritize the quality of your film. If you cannot find the right person, your crew and audience will notice, and it may affect their perception of your seriousness. If you are producing a road movie with ad-lib dialogue, you might get better performances from non-professional actors, especially if they include children.

Avoid cutting corners because you can’t afford certain elements. Hiring a skilled and creative editor is crucial, and you should prioritize this role. After the director or director-writer, the editor will have the most significant impact on the final quality of your film.

2. Rights and Permissions

Make sure you have all the necessary rights and permissions. This includes the rights underlying your screenplay, the rights in actors' performances, music permissions, and any other brand names or individuals featured in your film. Get these in writing to avoid legal issues later. Do not assume you don't need to address these issues until after shooting. It's better to get them sorted before you start filming. A film without clear chain-of-title insurance from an errors and omissions insurer will not be licensable by broadcasters, distributors, or buyers. This step should be undertaken early in the process.

In summary, a well-planned pre-production checklist and attention to detail in casting, crew welfare, and legal permissions are essential for the success of your independent film. By taking these steps, you can enhance your chances of creating a high-quality, marketable film that will stand the test of time.