Quick Tip: How’d We Do?

The first day on set with a new DP is always a test. You are testing them to see what they are like and how they like to work, and they are testing you as well. 

At the end of the first day, I always try and grab the DP after wrap, or call them on the way home, and ask two questions: How did we do and what can we do better for you?

If there was something that didn’t work well, I’ll actually bring that up and explain how I am already working on fixing it, but these two questions will not only gauge what they need from you, but will also assure them that you are playing on their team and need to know how best to do it for them.

At the end of the first week, I ask the same questions again, and, hopefully, if there were ideas after day one, there is nothing at the end of day five.

Finally, there’s no downside to asking a DP you know this either. You may have a different team, so this is a time to explore what can be done better. You can do a great job on day one, but that doesn’t mean it can’t be better.

As always, communication and open dialogue are the keys to success.  Ask and you shall receive.