What's a camera test?

Veteran DPs (directors of photography) will shoot camera tests in advance of filming a project – trying different lenses and different camera settings to achieve the visual style and effect they want for the film. Recording some test footage well in advance of your shoot, in one of your locations or somewhere similar and doing a little experimentation will give you a huge advantage on the day of the shoot.

This means you won't be burning time experimenting with camera settings, filters, and mics on the actual shoot- just concentrating on getting the framing and performance you want. This will lead to a much more productive, less stressful shooting day and much better looking and sounding footage that is ideal for your project.

It can give a great boost to the quality of your footage if you can plan to set up in your location the day before, shoot a little test footage with full lights and sound, then review your test footage that night, making a few adjustments the next morning before the actual shoot to make sure everything is perfect.

Even if your actual location is not available the day before, just setting up all your gear somewhere similar and shooting some test footage will help prepare you for the shoot.

You are also making sure your camera, mics and all other equipment is in perfect functioning condition. (Stan Smith's tip!)

And, if you pack up right afterwards, it will also ensure you don't forget any gear or accessories you'll need!

Here are some things to keep in mind while shooting camera tests:

• Where in this location will I put the camera?
• What time of day works the best in this location (if daylight is a factor)?
• Should I shoot slightly over- or underexposed in this location, for the look and emotion I'm going for?
• What shutter speed will give me the look I want?
• Should I shoot with filters? Which one(s)?
• Should I use a wider angle or longer lens?
• What framing looks better—tighter or wider?
• Should I use a lot of low or high angles, Dutch angles, or straight on shots?
• Do I need to rent, borrow, or buy a camera stabilizer so I can get smooth moving shots? How about a dolly or jib arm?
• What microphone and accessories should I use? How should I set my audio levels- manual, or auto?
• What is the complete list of gear I need to bring to this shoot?