Tag: safety

  • Low-Budget Filmmaking Tip #104

    Low-Budget Filmmaking Tip #104

    You really need those fingers.

    It is okay to call a halt if you don’t feel a pyro or other effect is safe, or you suddenly see something that looks very wrong. It may screw up the shot, but wasting time or money is far preferable to wasting lives.

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  • Low-Budget Filmmaking Tip #102

    Low-Budget Filmmaking Tip #102

    We can replace interns!

    Tape every cord down, except for under the tripods and C-stands, lights, etc. You don’t want people tripping over cords.

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  • Low-Budget Filmmaking Tip #86

    Low-Budget Filmmaking Tip #86

    It’s like being a superhero.

    If you’re crewing, bring a pair of gloves. Even cheapo dollar store gloves.

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  • Low-Budget Filmmaking Tip #80

    Low-Budget Filmmaking Tip #80

    Stretch those chewy hamstrings!

    Before you do stunts or other physically demanding action, take a few minutes to stretch and limber up. There’s a reason zombie hunters do it!

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  • Low-Budget Filmmaking Tip #55

    Low-Budget Filmmaking Tip #55

    Tension Breeds Resentment

    When taping cables and cords down, always leave a very generous series of loops at each C-stand, tripod, or workstation. This is so you can move stuff around without retaping.

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  • Low-Budget Filmmaking Tip #48

    Low-Budget Filmmaking Tip #48

    “Sudden Massive Tissue Loss” +100 points!

    When loading shells in a mortar, try to drop them in with your non-dominant hand (if you’re right-handed, drop with the left hand). That way, if you experience Sudden Massive Tissue Loss, you still have your favorite hand.

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  • Low-Budget Filmmaking Tip #38

    Low-Budget Filmmaking Tip #38

    Yes, even a nuke.

    If you must have a live weapon on set, such as a pistol, or a shotgun, or a nuclear weapon, have one expert dedicated to babysitting that object. They must never let it out of their sight. Pay attention to what they have to say. If they say the actor is being unsafe, fix the actor — don’t shush the expert.

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