What to Expect on Set: A Marketing Director’s Guide to Video Production Days
You’ve signed off on the concept, reviewed the shot list, and locked in the deliverables. Now it’s shoot day — and your team is stepping onto set.
As the client and brand representative on set, your role during production is crucial, but it’s not to direct or micromanage. It’s to represent the brand, support the creative vision, and ensure the shoot stays aligned with your objectives — without disrupting the flow.
Here’s what you can expect, how to prepare, and how to collaborate with your production team for a successful (and stress-free) shoot.
- Set Prep: Know the Plan Before You Arrive
- Your Role on Set: Feedback, Not Filmmaking
- Review Responsibilities: When and How to Give Input
- Supporting the Creative Team
Set Prep: Know the Plan Before You Arrive
Production days move fast. Having clear alignment before the first shot is rolled will make the day run smoothly for everyone involved. Make sure you’ve reviewed:
- The final schedule (call sheet) — arrival times, talent, lunch break, and estimated wrap
- The approved script or interview questions
- The shot list or storyboard — what’s being captured and in what order
- Wardrobe and props — confirm brand consistency and availability
- Any key messaging or visuals that are non-negotiable
It’s also helpful to confirm who from your internal team will be on set and who has final sign-off authority — especially if decisions need to be made quickly.
Your Role on Set: Feedback, Not Filmmaking
You’ll be set up with a client-dedicated monitor, typically just off set, where you can watch the live camera feed in real time. This lets you see what the director and crew are capturing — without stepping into the filming environment or slowing the process.
Next to you will be your client producer — your primary point of contact on the production team. Their role is to listen to your feedback, help interpret creative decisions, and communicate any adjustments to the crew (lighting, framing, set design, etc.).
This setup keeps the chain of communication clear and efficient — you stay focused on brand alignment, while the crew stays focused on execution.
Review Responsibilities: When and How to Give Input
Your creative team wants your feedback — but timing and clarity are everything. Here’s how to make that happen:
- Flag big issues early: If something looks off (wardrobe, set design, overall energy), bring it up before rolling on multiple takes.
- Avoid giving talent direction directly: Let the director or client producer handle performance notes so we can maintain tone and flow.
- Save detailed notes for playback or between setups: It’s common to record multiple takes and review options later — not every note needs to be fixed live.
And if you’re unsure about something in the moment? Ask your client producer. They’re there to help you understand what’s happening — and when it’s the right time to step in.
Supporting the Creative Team
The best way to help your production team is by creating space for them to do what they do best. A few ways to support the process:
- Minimize distractions near camera: Keep conversations and devices away from active filming areas.
- Keep the crew looped in on changes: If a VIP guest is delayed or a product prop is being swapped, share that as soon as possible.
- Trust the process: A lot of what’s happening on set may look chaotic — but it’s intentional. If something feels off, your client producer can clarify why it’s being done that way.
Your presence is valued. You’re the bridge between brand and production. And your biggest impact comes from collaboration.
Show Up Aligned. Support the Process. Speak Through the Right Channels.
Video shoots work best when there’s trust and clarity. At Swng Productions, we set our clients up for success with clear communication, live monitoring, and a dedicated producer who ensures your voice is heard — without disrupting the momentum on set.
Want a quick checklist to prep for your next shoot? We’ve got one — just ask.
