Production Tip #3

Tapes are Cheap.
It always helps to keep extra tape along, not only can you buy multiple packs of them as well as singular, they are inexpensive, and you never know when you might need a back up.  That way, in the uncommon event that the tape doesn’t work or the tape snaps, you have an extra.  Or if an interview goes long (you won’t believe how many people get long winded) you have another to shoot extra footage.  You will save yourself a lot of time an heartache if you just remember to bring another tape.  Try to prepare how long you are shooting and estimate 1-2 tapes more than the length of the shoot.  Therefore you save yourself some time and won’t be running to the store and making the client wait.  That’s bad news.

Production Tip #2

Label Tapes.
I know that this sounds like a no-brainer, but you won't believe how often I see this even today in the broadcast realm as well. Labeling your tapes is crucial for not just the production of your video, but also the editing or post-production of it as well. If you want to make sure that you know what's on a tape and whether or not it has been used label it either before use or after. This will ensure that if you rewound the tape and set it down with out a label it will not be recorded over. Sticky notes are not labels!!! All video cassettes come with a label for this reason. For those who have a hard time with the small DV labels, Sharpie makes an ultra fine tip that will write on these beautifully. They can be bought at any office supply store.

Production Tip #1

Always Charge Your Camera Batteries.
This may sound like common sense, but you may be surprised how many times this is overlooked. Even if you think you may be inside and near an outlet to use A/C for most of your shoot, there may come an instance, where you need to take it mobile or go outside for some key shots. So the night before the shoot make sure all batteries are charged, and you won't miss that crucial, impromptu shot that may be important for your production.