The Shoot

Terminology

While working on set you will be expected to understand a few technical terms. Here is a mini-glossary...

Continuity

The task of ensuring that each shot flows naturally to the next is the responsibility of the 'continuity' staff. They may take polaroids of you after a shot to ensure that the next time e.g. a button is not different.

First Positions

The AD will tell you where you are to start from in a shot. For example, if you are to walk, you will be instructed to walk from point A to point B. Your 'First Position' will be point A where you will stand before the shot commences. When the director (or an assistant) shouts 'First Positions', return to this spot. Chewing gum stains on pavement or carpet tape are often used to ensure exact positions.

Rehearsal

This is a walk through the shot, usually accompanied by instructions.

Final Checks

This is where wardrobe, hair and make-up check that everything is all right.

Stand By

Get ready and particularly a chance for the crew to report a problem.

Background Action

Usually the background action can start independent of the foreground action. This is your cue to do your thing.

Rolling

The camera has started filming.

Action

This is the cue for the actors to start their action.

Cut

Stop the cameras.

Camera Right and Left

These are directions relative to the cameras point of view.

Advice from Experience

Being an extra is easy, but not as easy as it seems. Here are some tips from our members

Noise

You will normally be expected to make no sound while the foreground action is taking place. If you are talking you will have to whisper or mime. When miming speach try numbers, letters, words of songs or at worst 'rubarb rubarb'.

The Camera

The camera is a very dangerous thing on the set. Never look at it. You thing you can just casually glance past it, but is sucks you in.

Shoes

Foot steps can be very noisy. You may be asked to remove you shoes if you are walking in a scene. Make sure your socks have no holes.

Glasses

Glasses are rarely a problem in contemporary work. If you need them wear them. The AD can ask you to remove them it she/he wants.

Shooting from multiple angles

Often, the same scene is shot from multiple angles. (You may think that it would be easier to have two cameras, but you need to change lighting and sound). Remember what you did in the first take and do the same thing. If you have a drink make sure it is the same level, etc. Don't change your costume, even to button a loose button.