- Nate Rivi
A Video Producer’s Guide to Safe Shooting
Updated: Jul 22, 2021
As COVID-19 vaccines slowly trickle out to the public, public safety continues to be a national concern as businesses are doing everything they can to show the world they care for their customers’ well-being.
Masks and hand sanitizer aren’t enough to calm people’s nerves anymore. That’s why we got Safe Sets Certified by Safe Sets International. Safe Sets International is a collective of leaders in the film industry aiming to keep film crews safe from COVID-19. By reading their module and taking their quiz, we gained valuable information and we’re here to share some of our favorite tips and resources so you can continue shooting safely during the pandemic.
Screening, Screening, Screening
First things first, you’re going to want to screen your whole crew for COVID-19 symptoms. Our good friends at Safe Sets International whipped up this screening document so you can quickly screen your crew. The document should also be sent to anyone who will be present at the shoot (send before the shoot date so everyone is properly screened before-hand).
Next, you’re going to want to invest in an infrared thermometer. We never go on a shoot without our trusty thermometer. It’s able to pick up fevers that individuals may not know they had, while also remaining touch-free meaning no cross-contamination. If those aren’t enough reasons to get one, it provides peace of mind to your client that they are dealing with safe, caring professionals.
Stay in the Loop
It seems every day there are new updates on the most effective ways to safely conduct business amidst the pandemic. It is your responsibility to stay up to date on all the latest regulations and guidelines. Lucky for us, the Virginia Film Office keeps a tab on their website strictly dedicated to COVID-19 related updates for producers in the state.
The Producers Guild of America went as far as to build the complete guide to navigating COVID-19 as a video producer. Their comprehensive guide is complete with everything you need to know to continue safely producing!
Safe Sets Pro Tips
The tricky thing about this new COVID-19 society we live in is accommodating the various levels of paranoia surrounding the virus. Some people are carrying on business as usual, while some are still too petrified to leave their house. Here’s a list of helpful tips we’ve learned from our Safe Sets Certification that will help ease the worries of your clients.
Stagger your call times to keep set traffic at an all-time low.
Have crew members that are not in need away from the set to avoid unnecessary crowding.
Instead of using trailers with AC, switch to portable tents and use fans if you need air conditioning.
Limit location scouting to one or two people who are key decision-makers, use video chat to share location with the rest of the crew.
Makeup artists should use disposable toothbrushes and applicators, avoiding the reuse of any applicator.
Of course, this is just a fraction of the helpful information available on the Safe Sets International website. Plus, the base level Safe Sets Certification is free, so there’s no excuse to not be certified.
What We’ve Learned
As a video producer trying to stay safe and in business during this pandemic, remembering these three strategies will get you well on your way. Bolster your screening process with a screening document. Stay up to date on guidelines from various governing bodies in your area so you are always in the loop. And last but not least, in a stressful time like this, using the tips provided by Safe Sets International will keep your video production company a cut above the competition.