Production management

Start with your script 

 
• your script is the source of most production decisions you
need to make
• how long is it?
The script will tell you...

• Length of project (the screen-time)

• The cast you'll require
• locations you'll need & whether they are exterior or interior
• equipment required
• wardrobe you need
• sets and props
• you'll also use the script to work out your coverage plan for
each scene and the set-ups
Secure your locations
 
Things that will affect decisions about locations include
 
• can you get permissions to use them? Councils and shires require
written permissions
• cast and crew have to be able to eat and drink there and go to the
toilet
• you'll need parking arrangements for equipment
• there may be issues with ongoing ambient, irregular and intrusive
sounds
• time of day and lighting requirements
• is the location adequate for your technical set-ups
Production manager roles
• Script breakdown and budgeting
• Negotiating deals on equipment and production/postproduction in consultation with key crew ie director DOP
• Preparing a preliminary shooting schedule before the 1st Assistant Director takes over
• Assembling the crew, except for those hired by the director
• Approving all production expenditures, usually submitted via purchase order, invoice, or receipts reimbursement
• Negotiating wages and hours
• Approving call sheets
• resolving personality conflicts.
First AD Roles
• setting the shooting schedule,
• tracking daily progress against the filming production schedule,
• arranging logistics,
• preparing daily call sheets,
• checking the arrival of cast and crew,
• maintaining order on the set,
• rehearsing cast,
• and directing extras.
OH&S - One of the most important jobs of your First AD to specify
the risks to the cast and crew for every location
Location Specific Risks Hazardous Materials e.g. Asbestos, Dust, Chemicals /
Ventilation / Structural Risks e.g. floors etc / Animals (dogs or disease carrying animals) /
Plant (i.e. flora) materials / shooting in parks / the bush / Access (in and out in a
emergency) and permissions to use locations / Guards and railings / Shooting in confined
spaces / Shooting near or on water / at the the beach / Fire systems e.g. water sprinklers
that would affect using lighting / Water and toilets access / High (and low) temperature
and humidity

Electricity And Lights / And Water / Overloading circuits

Physical Action Stunts / General strenuous action (like jumping, swimming or running)
Vehicles Driver Distraction (no shooting of actors driving and saying dialogue) /
Overloading Vehicles / Camera Vehicles

Special FX Fire / Firearms real and non real / Pyrotechnics / Safety equipment for
above
 
Production resources and initiatives Call sheets / First Aid / Security / Traffic
control / Transport to and from production