23 May How to Focus On a Film Set
If you are an actor wondering how to focus on a film set – perhaps you have booked your very first job – you’ve come to the right place! Here at 3-2-1 Acting School in Los Angeles, we train our students in acting technique, and we also prepare them for working on sets! In this educational video, our master teacher John Walcutt is explaining how to focus on a film set.
Here are a few additional tips for you:
To prepare for your acting career, work as an extra!
Working as an extra, or background actor, is a great way to learn about film sets. If you are just starting out, I suggest doing a few background acting jobs to familiarize yourself with the work environment. If you are already working as a professional actor, please know that it would not be appropriate for you to list a background acting job on your resume. Background acting jobs will simply expose you to film sets and how they operate; they will also allow you to build relationships.
While you are surrounded by working professionals, you will become more comfortable with the hectic nature of film sets. This way, when you book your first acting role, you will be less distracted; you will be able to focus!
Listen carefully to your fellow crew members.
As actors, it is, of course, our job to listen to our scene partners. While on set, it’s also important to listen to the crew so that you can understand the process of filmmaking.
Listen carefully to the “lingo” that the crew uses, and take notes when it is appropriate to do so. You will likely hear many of the film set terms that John describes in the video. You can also check our Hollywood Vocab page to learn some terms before you go to set!
Meditate (when it’s appropriate to do so).
John mentions that actors often retreat to dressing rooms and trailers to clear their minds. Take advantage of this quiet time! We recommend developing a meditation practice. Some actors love listening to music; others prefer guided meditations and meditation apps. Try some different outlets, and see what works for you!
Of course, you can meditate in the morning before you even go to set. This is a great way to start the day. For more advice about well-being and healthy habits, check out my blog post 5 Habits of Healthy Working Actors.
Focus on your character and the moment before.
When you are about to film your scene, there will be a lot of activity and noise around you. John does a great job of describing the final moments before the director says “action” (check out the video on this page!). Your job is, of course, to stay aware of your surroundings and to listen for instruction as you may be asked to move, or you may be given instructions about blocking or props. As this is occurring, the best way to focus is to start to get into character (again, without losing touch with your colleagues – they may have important instructions for you). Rather than being on a film set with a couch and paintings and a front door and a flurry of crew members…you are in your character’s living room! What is happening immediately before your scene starts? Is your character preparing for mom’s surprise birthday party? Think about this circumstance. Think about the excitement of surprising someone that you love. Perhaps you can “use” the flurry of activity on the film set as fuel for your character – perhaps it sort of feels like you are all setting up for a birthday party!
Lights, camera…action!
Once the hair and make-up team has cleared and the cameras are rolling, you can fully get into character; this is your moment! You are not on a film set; you are in your living room with your father, sister, aunt, uncle, and neighbors. Your mom is coming home from work, and you are about to surprise her on her birthday! Use that wonderful imagination of yours! You’ve got this.
Have fun.
I can’t say this enough! You, as an actor, are hired to tell stories – to entertain and to bring joy to the world. Have fun! Enjoy the process of preparing for the role, and enjoy learning how to focus on a film set. We at 3-2-1- Acting Studios in Los Angeles are here for you. If you are searching for acting training, do get in touch regarding our online and in-person classes.
