Working on a short film? Then read this.

Alrighty. I just finished 1st Assistant Directing a brilliant short film this easter weekend and thought I would write up a little post about what it's really like working on a short.

This post is for anyone looking to or thinking about working on a short film. It can be a lot of fun but it can also be hectic and busy as you quickly run out of hours and patience from the crew.

Yes, the majority of people who choose to work on short films (for free!) have a passion for what they do but trust me everyone has there limits and theres nothing wrong with that.

Here are my tips for working on a short film set:

1. Bring your own reusable cup for teas and coffees (getting cups on a short film set when they've ran out will take hours so cover yourself with your own mug)

2. Be happy with going for a nature wee (or hold it in but I wouldn't advise this!). Of course this depends on the type of short film you're working on and the location but let's just say that most definitely they will not have honeywagons on set!

3. Bring snacks - there will not be any craft services. There might be a tea table with biscuits and fruit but if you want to stay energised just bring your own stuff and look after yourself.

4. Ok so this one is tailored more to ADs 1sting a short film - do not do anything you are not comfortable with. You might find yourself in a situation where other crew members are offering up suggestions (ones that are not the safest) but just remember you are responsible for the health and safety of this people so stand your ground.

5. Take photos! Make memories and have some fun and enjoy the experience.

6. From an AD perspective this one might sound silly but read the script before doing the short and have a good understanding of the storyline and what is happening in it.

7. Another obvious one for the ADs - read the callsheet - check where you can park and if there's breakfast or not. Trust me you don't want to get there and find out you have to wait until lunch for any food.

8. Take the opportunity to talk to the crew - unfortunately this doesn't happen often when you're on a busy film or TV set and everyone is running around non stop. Take the time to talk to the lovely crew who have given up their time to come and make this script a reality - you never know what connections you might make.

A short little blog post but hopefully a helpful one. Any questions feel free to drop us a line at theadreport@gmail.com - I'd love to hear from you!

Now I'm off to pack for my trip to Florence (non work related!).

TAR

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