Realistic expectations? at DVinfo.net

Kevin McRoberts · May 26th, 2010, 08:57 PM

I had a first meeting on a volunteer project four weeks ago. ~20m piece with lots of B-roll, stock, effects, etc. due 5/30.

Clients didn't have scripts done for a week and a half.

Clients finally got shooting scheduled last week, and principle photography wrapped on Friday. I let them know before and after that this was a problem, and that I might not be able to deliver on everything.

As of today, I've got a decent radio edit. I'm not getting any help scrounging or creating B-roll, stock footage, or making any graphics. Informed the client that two short effect-heavy sequences were likely going to have to be dropped due to a lack of time and their expectation that I just come up with a script.

I've got no problem putting in the time, but is there realistically any amount of time I can put in at this point to deliver exactly what they're expecting?

Sam Hancock · May 26th, 2010, 09:16 PM

Hey Kevin-

Sounds like you've been pretty honest with them every step of the way, and that they have pretty unrealistic expectations... Especially on a volunteer gig. I would continue to communicate what you believe you can realistically deliver, and be up front about what they will get if they stick to there deadline/lack of help/resources.

May 26th, 2010, 08:57 PM	#1
Kevin McRoberts Major Player Join Date: Jun 2008 Location: Charlottesville, VA Posts: 700	Realistic expectations? I had a first meeting on a volunteer project four weeks ago. ~20m piece with lots of B-roll, stock, effects, etc. due 5/30. Clients didn't have scripts done for a week and a half. Clients finally got shooting scheduled last week, and principle photography wrapped on Friday. I let them know before and after that this was a problem, and that I might not be able to deliver on everything. As of today, I've got a decent radio edit. I'm not getting any help scrounging or creating B-roll, stock footage, or making any graphics. Informed the client that two short effect-heavy sequences were likely going to have to be dropped due to a lack of time and their expectation that I just come up with a script. I've got no problem putting in the time, but is there realistically any amount of time I can put in at this point to deliver exactly what they're expecting?

May 26th, 2010, 09:16 PM	#2
Sam Hancock New Boot Join Date: Jan 2006 Location: Berkeley, CA Posts: 16	Hey Kevin- Sounds like you've been pretty honest with them every step of the way, and that they have pretty unrealistic expectations... Especially on a volunteer gig. I would continue to communicate what you believe you can realistically deliver, and be up front about what they will get if they stick to there deadline/lack of help/resources.