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Photo/Video Shoot SOP

savanna
8 October 2024

Photo/Video Shoot SOP

Why?

This is a guideline for how SCAD organizes photo and video shoots, so we have consistent shoots with our clients.

 

Planning the Shoot

To plan for a photo/video shoot, you will need the information below.

 

Before the Shoot

  • Shot list / Storyboard
    • Unless this is a repetitive shoot (like real estate), ALWAYS make a shot list (pinterest, PDF, etc.) beforehand and have it available. 
  • Check the weather for outdoor shoots. 
  • Confirm with the client the day-of that everything is okay.
  • Bring snacks / water / coffee. 
  • Print out and bring model release forms if applicable. 

 

Location

  • Are there parking accommodations (especially for any heavy equipment)? 
    • The Project Manager should help you to arrange parking close to the shoot location.
  • How long will it take to commute?
  • Is there any typical traffic during the shoot time?
    • Take this into account when planning to leave the office/hotel.
  • What is the lighting? Time of day? Need to make sure these are in line with the goals of the shoot.
  • What are the availability of outlets, space, natural light, and isolation of the set? These are important for sound, what equipment we can bring, etc.

 

Day and time of the shoot

  • What is the approximate time needed to complete the shoot?
    • Make sure you have enough time allotted for setup and tear down. The filming time should not feel rushed, give yourself plenty of time when planning the shoot.
  • Do you have access to the room/building/location for long enough?
    • Let your Project Manager know if you need access early/late for setup or tear down. 

Equipment

  • How many cameras/angles are needed?
  • Always bring lighting, even if it’s just backup. Flash minimum for photos. LED panels for video. 
  • Green screens?
  • What microphones are needed?
  • Create a Packing List

Setup time

  • How long will it take to set up the equipment?
    • Video setup
      • MINIMUM setup time: 30min. 
        This would be a location you have shot before, know where you are shooting, and know the setup well, and there isn’t much equipment.
      • NORMAL setup time: 1hr - 1.5hr
        Lighting setup, test shots, sound setup, test sound, with an additional 30 min if you need to scout the area. However, pre scouting is always recommended, or having the client send photos or do a walkthrough of the area if that’s available. 
    • Photo setup
      • MINIMUM setup time: 30min
        Known location, have already shot, minimal lighting needed. 
      • NORMAL setup time: 30min - 1hr
        Lighting setup, test shots, location setup, etc. Add 30 min if you need to scout locations first. 

 

  • Camera Set Up For Interview Set Up
  • Is this a new setup? Has the new setup been tested/rehearsed off location?
  • If the shoot is at the SCAD office, can the equipment be set up/tested in advance?

 

General Audio Notes:

  • Capture noise print
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