Cinematographer
Prep Days sind essentiell für mein Equipment-Testing. Ich überprüfe jede Linse, jedes Filter, jede Kamera-Funktion. Probleme am Prep Day zu finden spart Drehtage.
Designated day before shooting begins when departments prepare their equipment, sets, and personnel – includes camera prep, wardrobe fittings, set construction completion, rehearsals, and final logistics coordination, typically compensated at reduced rates compared to shoot days.
What is a Prep Day?
A Prep Day is a preparation day before principal photography, where all departments prepare their equipment, sets, and processes. Prep Days are crucial for smooth shooting days.
Basic Principle
| Aspect | Description |
|---|---|
| Timing | Before shooting begins |
| Purpose | Preparation |
| Crew | Department-specific |
| Compensation | Usually reduced |
Typical Prep Activities
| Department | Activity |
|---|---|
| Camera | Equipment Check |
| Costume | Fittings |
| Art | Set Dressing |
| Production | Logistics |
Camera Prep
| Task | Description |
|---|---|
| Camera Check | Test all functions |
| Lens Test | Inspect lenses |
| Build | Assemble camera |
| Workflow | Test data pipeline |
Costume Prep
| Task | Description |
|---|---|
| Fittings | Try-ons |
| Alterations | Modifications |
| Doubles | Prepare duplicates |
| Organization | Tagging, sorting |
Art Department Prep
| Task | Description |
|---|---|
| Set Finish | Complete construction |
| Dressing | Decoration |
| Props | Placement |
| Paint | Final coats |
Lighting & Grip Prep
| Task | Description |
|---|---|
| Equipment Check | Functionality test |
| Pre-Rig | Pre-installation |
| Gel Cuts | Prepare gels |
| Inventory | Check stock |
Sound Prep
| Task | Description |
|---|---|
| Equipment Test | Recorders, mics |
| Frequency Scan | Check RF |
| Playback | If needed |
| Backup | Equipment ready |
Production/AD Prep
| Task | Description |
|---|---|
| Call Sheet | Finalize |
| Logistics | Transport, catering |
| Coordination | All departments |
| Final Walkthrough | Location |
Number of Prep Days
| Production | Typical |
|---|---|
| Short Film | 1-2 days |
| TV Episode | 2-5 days |
| Feature Film | 2-4 weeks |
| Commercial | 1-3 days |
Compensation
| Type | Rate |
|---|---|
| Full Prep | 100% Day Rate |
| Half Prep | 50% Rate |
| Quarter Prep | 25% Rate |
| Travel Day | Varies |
Department-Specific
| Department | Prep Needs |
|---|---|
| Camera | High |
| Costume | High (with cast) |
| Art | Very High |
| Sound | Moderate |
Schedule
| Time | Activity |
|---|---|
| Morning | Equipment checks |
| Midday | Fittings, tests |
| Afternoon | Meetings, finalizing |
| Evening | If needed |
Prep Checklists
| Department | Essential Items |
|---|---|
| Camera | Bodies, lenses, media |
| Sound | Mics, recorders, batteries |
| Grip | Stands, clamps, flags |
| Electric | Cables, dimmers, fixtures |
Avoiding Problems
| Potential Issue | Prep Solution |
|---|---|
| Equipment Malfunction | Test early |
| Fitting Issues | Time for alterations |
| Set Incompletion | Schedule buffer |
| Communication Breakdowns | Pre-calls, meetings |
Tech Scout vs. Prep
| Aspect | Tech Scout | Prep Day |
|---|---|---|
| Purpose | Planning | Execution |
| Timing | Earlier | Just before shooting |
| Activity | Visiting, discussing | Working |
| Location | On set | Often studio/rental house |
Budget Considerations
| Factor | Description |
|---|---|
| Crew Costs | Reduced rates |
| Equipment | Rental begins |
| Location | Access required |
| Value | Prevents shooting day problems |
Best Practices
| Practice | Reason |
|---|---|
| Sufficient Time | Thorough preparation |
| Checklists | Don't forget anything |
| Communication | Report issues early |
| Documentation | For the start of shooting |
Today
Prep Days are an indispensable part of professional film production. Investing in thorough preparation pays off with smoother shooting days. With increasing technical complexity – from camera systems to digital workflows – Prep Days are becoming more important than ever to avoid costly problems during production.
From the crafts
Perspectives
Director
Prep Days nutze ich für finale Proben mit den Schauspielern und Besprechungen mit Department Heads. Diese Zeit für Vorbereitung ohne Zeitdruck ist unbezahlbar.
Producer
Prep Days sind günstiger als Drehtage und ermöglichen gründliche Vorbereitung. Die richtige Anzahl an Prep Days zu budgetieren verhindert teure Probleme während des Drehs.
More in the lexikon
Related terms
Test your knowledge
Quiz
1. Zu welchem Department gehört „Vorbereitungstag / Prep Day / Prep-Tag"?
2. Wie viele verschiedene Fachperspektiven bietet dieser Eintrag?