Here is a quick run down of things you need to know before shooting your next event (feel free to add to this list in the comments):
- Make sure all your devices are fully charged & that you pack extra batteries or battery pack chargers just in case.
- Pack some kind of light source (a flash or lighting ring). If you don’t have either and only have your flashlight on the iPhone present then that works. It’s not always ideal but in low lighting situations it’s better than nothing. You never know how lighting will be at events.
- Make sure you have plenty of space available on your devices for footage. Remember, you can always delete things later, you can’t go back though and add moments you missed.
- Bring extra cash as well as coins just in case you are in an area that does not accept credit cards. Hey, it can happen!
- Bring your business cards!
- Be sure to fill up the gas tank!
- Always double check the location address & estimated time it will take you to get to your destination.
- Plan to show up at least 30 minutes prior to your designated time. This will leave room for the unexpected (traffic, parking, detours, etc.).
- Scout out the location. Another reason to show up early is so that you can scout out the location, take test shots, and plan out where you will be.
- Capture footage of the area before the event starts. While shooting these test shots capture footage that could be used later in the editing process. Again, you never know what you will need until you start editing and wish you had x,y,z.
- Review the footage you captured so far to make sure everything is working and that you like the angle, view, sound, etc.
- Watch people start to show up and prepare for the event. Take mental notes and capture this too!
- Mingle when appropriate with others. If you develop a detailed conversation with someone offer up your business card and encourage them to connect with you at a later time.
- As time approaches find your spot and be ready!
- Be ready to capture anything that moves! You should know your mark and be aware of what else is around that might work later in the editing process. You have to focus on your mark because that is why you are there. However, you also have to be aware of what else is going on around them because it could be the one thing that makes you stand out later.
- Lights, Camera, Action & double check you are recording!
- Once all the hype has died down it’s time to pack it up!
- Let the editing process begin!
- Be sure to save all your original files somewhere safe so that if anything happens in the editing process you can always go back and grab the original.
[This article was inspired by our coverage of the Mill Valley Film Festival with Dig In Magazine ]