Archives for February, 2009
1st AD - How to Call the Roll
One of the 1st Assistant Director’s responsibilities is to “call the roll” while on set. This is very important as one of the steps include using a slate to mark a take, which helps the editor sync the audio to the picture and helps to keep track of all the shots. Below are the steps involved, usually, in calling the roll.
1) “Waiting on…” Though not technically part of calling the roll, 1st ADs may keep the set focused by frequently calling out which department is responsible for a delay in rolling a take. If the lights need to be adjusted, the 1st AD calls out, “Waiting on gaffers”. If the actors are still in their trailer, the 1st AD calls out “Waiting on talent”, etc. However, such calls can be regarded as applying excessive pressure to the department in question, and especially in the case of actors, are often avoided.
