Brain snack: “The difference between a good shoot and a great shoot is often in the clock.”
Most filmmakers dread the clock on set.
They wing it.
They hope for the best.
They end up in overtime, burning cash and crew.
But after years on set, this simple formula works best for me. And yes, you can steal it.
Why this formula is your secret weapon:
- It’s Predictive – No more guessing games, just clear expectations.
- It’s Empowering – You control the schedule, the schedule doesn’t control you.
- It’s Respectful – Your crew and talent appreciate a well-run set.
- It’s Profitable – Overtime kills budgets. This saves them.
- It’s Repeatable – Apply it to every shot, every day, every project.
Here’s the one simple tip:
Calculate your shot time with precision using this formula:
Setup Time + (Estimated Script Time + 5 min Buffer) * Estimated # of Takes = Total Shooting Time for a Shot
Let’s break it down:
- Setup Time: This is the real-world time it takes to get the camera, lights, and talent ready for this specific shot. Be honest. Is it 5 minutes or 30?
- Estimated Script Time: How long does the actual action or dialogue for this shot take? Time it. Don’t guess.
- 5 min Buffer: This is non-negotiable. It’s for talent resets, minor adjustments, a quick sip of water, or moving a C-stand. It adds up, and it’s crucial.
- Estimated # of Takes: This is where experience comes in. Are you working with seasoned pros or new talent? Is the shot complex or simple? Be realistic. If it’s a tricky emotional scene, budget for more takes.
Example in Action:
Imagine a close-up of an actor delivering a 45-second monologue.
- Setup Time: 20 minutes (new lighting setup)
- Estimated Script Time: 0.75 minutes (45 seconds)
- 5 min Buffer: 5 minutes
- Estimated # of Takes: 7 (it’s a monologue, so more takes for performance nuances)
Calculation: 20 min + (0.75 min + 5 min) * 7 = 20 + (5.75 min * 7) = 20 + 40.25 = 60.25 minutes.
Round up to 65 minutes. Now you know that one shot needs over an hour. This isn’t just a number; it’s a commitment. It allows you to plan your day, manage expectations, and avoid that sinking feeling when you’re behind before lunch.
Want to apply this level of precision to your entire creative business, from client acquisition to project delivery? Check out the No BS Filmmaker OS Notion template. 👇
Make your day (and everyone else’s), George
PS: My favorite part of any shoot day? Getting home before the sun does. Almost. (just for laughs)
