Ok, I just started filming my first BIG short film. a Multi thousand dollar project with insurance and permits, and 5D and lens, Zacuto, etc....15 minute short film, with 1-6 actors at a time, 2-4 crew.

I have learned a few things with the first 2 days of filming.

1) Everything takes way longer then you think it will
2) The lighting outside changes ALOT

For shooting a scene, it does not seem to work to shoot everything wide, and then do the close ups, because by the time you do the close ups, the lighting is all different. And its not possible to cheat really because the environment is a fixed environment. SUGGESTIONS??!

As far as time for shooting, is there a way to know much much time each shot will take.....is an estimate for about 15 minutes per shot about right, given you do multiple takes?

I am in the middle of this and need help now for the next 5-6 shoots coming up.

Also is it better to reshoot a scene if possible rather then just take extra shots to finish up a half shot scene?

Thanks everyone.

Silas,

Would it be practical to use your 5D to shoot background stills (and even background videos) on location, then go into a studio and shoot the actors in front of a greenscreen? There would probably be just a few shots where actors had to actually be "on location", but most shots could be done at your leisure in a studio. Of course, you need to be sure the light seems to come from the same direction in the studio shot as in the background shot. You can cheat a little bit with matching fill light, but not too much or the audience will notice the difference.

Ken