Purpose

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The purpose of this Standard Operating Procedure (SOP) is to provide a structured workflow for daily production activities at F7 Studios. This SOP defines responsibilities, timelines, and protocols to ensure that each phase of production operates efficiently and aligns with project goals, safety protocols, and production quality standards.

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1. Pre-Day Setup and Preparation

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1. Daily Call Sheet Review

   • The Producer and Assistant Director (AD) are responsible for preparing and distributing the daily call sheet the evening before production.

   • The call sheet includes details such as cast and crew call times, scene breakdowns, shooting locations, special notes, and contact information for key personnel.

2. Crew and Equipment Call Times

   • Call times for each department are staggered to ensure that necessary setup is complete before the cast and crew arrive on set.

   • Technical Crew Call: The technical crew, including the camera, lighting, and sound teams, will arrive first to begin setup.

   • Production Crew Call: Departments like props, set design, and wardrobe will follow to prepare for the day’s scenes.

   • Cast and Makeup Call: Actors and makeup artists will be called once technical setups are near completion, minimizing wait times.

3. Safety and Briefing Meeting

   • The Safety Officer or AD conducts a daily Safety Briefing with the entire crew, covering potential hazards, emergency procedures, and any specific safety requirements for the day’s activities.

   • The AD will also conduct a Daily Briefing for department heads to review the production schedule, scene objectives, and any specific instructions.

 

2. Scene and Shot Preparation

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1. Set and Prop Setup

   • The Set Design and Props Departments are responsible for setting up the designated scenes and ensuring all necessary props and set pieces are in place.

   • The Props Master verifies that all props are prepared, tracked, and positioned accurately to align with the script and shot list.

2. Camera and Lighting Setup

   • The Director of Photography (DP) and camera crew coordinate with the Lighting Department to set up cameras, lights, and any required equipment for each shot.

   • The Lighting Gaffer and team will ensure proper lighting according to the shot list and storyboard, maintaining visual consistency across takes.

3. Sound Check and Preparation

   • The Sound Department conducts sound checks, adjusting microphone placements, levels, and ensuring audio quality.

   • A quiet zone will be established around the set during sound-sensitive scenes to reduce noise interference.

4. Wardrobe, Makeup, and Hair

   • Actors report to the Wardrobe and Makeup Departments as scheduled on the call sheet.

   • Wardrobe checks ensure that costumes match continuity requirements, while makeup artists prepare actors according to the character’s look as documented.

 

3. Scene Execution and Shot Management

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1. Director’s Blocking and Rehearsals

   • The Director will work with actors and crew to block scenes and conduct any necessary rehearsals, finalizing movements, positions, and timing.

   • The Script Supervisor will monitor continuity, recording actor positions, prop placements, and scene specifics for reference in subsequent takes.

2. Camera Rehearsals

   • The DP and camera operators conduct camera rehearsals to confirm shot framing, movement, and focus.

   • Adjustments are made as needed to ensure alignment with the shot list, and the camera team confirms readiness with the Director before moving forward.

3. Slate and Take Management

   • The Assistant Camera Operator manages the clapperboard, marking each take with scene, shot, and take number to ensure proper synchronization for post-production.

   • The AD or designated crew member logs each take in the Shot Log, noting quality and identifying preferred takes as indicated by the Director.

4. Performance and Filming

   • The Director calls “Action” to initiate each take, and the crew maintains absolute silence until the take is complete.

   • The Director calls “Cut” to end each take, at which point the crew is permitted to resume movement and prepare for any necessary adjustments.

5. Reviewing Takes and Adjustments

   • The Director and DP review key takes as needed to confirm satisfaction with framing, lighting, and performance.

   • Any adjustments to blocking, camera positioning, or lighting are made before additional takes if required.

 

4. In-Between Scene Transitions

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1. Scene Wrap and Reset

   • Once a scene is complete, the AD announces a scene wrap, and the crew begins resetting for the next scene.

   • The Props and Set Design teams reposition or change out set pieces as required by the upcoming scene, ensuring continuity with the script.

2. Equipment Adjustment and Battery Checks

   • The Camera and Lighting Departments will reposition equipment and perform necessary adjustments for the next setup.

   • Crew members verify that cameras, lights, and audio devices are fully charged or replace batteries if needed.

3. Cast and Crew Coordination

   • The AD will notify the cast when they are needed on set, while other crew members ensure readiness for the next scene.

   • Any remaining actors in wardrobe, makeup, or hair are prioritized to avoid delays.

 

5. Breaks and Meal Periods

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1. Scheduled Breaks

   • The AD manages break times according to the production schedule and ensures that all crew members are informed when breaks are scheduled.

   • Breaks are staggered when necessary to ensure critical departments are always covered.

2. Meal Break Compliance

   • Meal breaks will be scheduled in compliance with local labor regulations, typically at 6-hour intervals.

   • The Producer is responsible for coordinating catering or meal delivery to ensure timely service and minimal disruption to the schedule.

 

6. End-of-Day Wrap-Up and Review

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1. Scene and Shot Completion Check

   • Before wrapping for the day, the AD, Producer, and Director review the day’s planned scenes and shots to ensure all essential content has been captured.

   • Any missed or incomplete shots are noted and prioritized for the following day.

2. Equipment Storage and Securing Props

   • The Camera, Lighting, and Sound Departments are responsible for securing and storing equipment in designated storage areas, ensuring everything is organized and safe.

   • The Props and Set Design teams store all props and set pieces, taking notes on placement for continuity in future shoots.

3. Daily Wrap-Up Meeting

   • The AD and Producer hold a quick end-of-day meeting with department heads to review the day’s progress, discuss any issues encountered, and review the plan for the following day.

   • Key notes, issues, and adjustments for the next day are recorded and incorporated into the call sheet and daily shooting plan.

 

7. Post-Production Handoff and Documentation

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1. Shot Log and Scene Documentation

   • The Script Supervisor and AD finalize the Shot Log and any relevant continuity notes, ensuring clear documentation for post-production.

   • Documentation is reviewed, logged in F7 Studios’ project management system, and backed up in the designated project folder per the Post-Production SOP.

2. End-of-Day Report to Producer

   • The AD compiles an End-of-Day Report summarizing completed scenes, missed shots, equipment issues, and any safety concerns.

   • The report is submitted to the Producer, who reviews it with the Director and ensures that all necessary adjustments are accounted for.

 

8. Compliance and Continuous Improvement

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1. Daily Compliance Check

   • The Safety Officer and Producer confirm compliance with safety protocols, labor laws, and production quality standards each day, addressing any identified issues.

   • Any incidents or potential improvements are noted and documented.

2. Weekly Review and Adjustment

   • The Producer holds a weekly review meeting to assess the production workflow, gather feedback from department heads, and implement improvements as needed.

   • Insights and recommendations from these reviews are incorporated into future production plans and SOP updates.