How to ensure that your film crew members each turn up at the right time on set?

How to navigate through a hectic production day?

Knowing what call time is and how to incorporate it into the production plan will help you! Keep reading to learn the “what, when, where” of call time.

Thinking of starting with something more explanatory in the world of filmmaking?

Give a read to this complete guide on filmmaking - all the basics covered and explained.

Call time meaning

What does a call time mean?

Call time is a cinematography term that refers to the time the cast and the crew in production must be on set, ready for filming.

The crew usually has their call time earlier than the actors since they need more time to prepare everything for the shooting.

The purpose of a call time is to help everyone on set to stay on schedule and, therefore, on budget.

Setting call times in filmmaking also helps save resources and minimize the risks of production deviating from the plan.

Why is call time important?

  • ensures that everything for each production runs according to the schedule
  • provides an opportunity for crew members to meet and anticipate the events of the day
  • lets the team prepare and get all the necessary equipment
  • include notes about what needs to be done before the shooting begins
  • minimizes costs and risks
Call time in filmmaking

Where is the call time?

The call time is usually indicated in the call sheets sent the night before the shooting starts.

You can find everything you need to know and prepare for the production day in the call sheet, so it’s a good idea to check the sheet carefully the night before to know exactly where and when you have to be.

When is call time on set?

The call time is usually 2 hours before the first shot on set - this amount of time allows every crew member to prepare and prepare the equipment for the filming.

Simultaneously, it will enable the members not needed for the shoot to leave early, rest, and prepare for their next call.

Up next: Keep your shooting days effective with a call sheet

Nothing adds effectiveness to a shooting day as careful planning.

A call sheet is a perfect scheduling tool for filmmakers that allows them to track the time slots and locations of each crew member on set.

Head on to our article on call sheets to learn more about this handy tool and get a free call sheet template to fill in!

What does it mean to call time?

It means to announce the call time for all crew members for the production day.

What is a call time on set?

Call time is a cinematography term which refers to the time the cast and the crew in production need to be on set ready for filming.

What are actors’ call time?

The crew usually has their call time earlier than the actors since they need more time to get the equipment prepared for the shooting.

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