As a DOP/Director, success often boils down to preparation. Over the years, I’ve learned that a well-prepared shoot day isn’t just about having the right camera or crew—it’s about using tools that empower you to make the most of every location, every frame, and every hour of daylight. Here are three game-changing tools that have made me a better DOP/Director, plus a bonus tip that ties everything together.
1. Measuring Tape: The Unsung Hero of Location Scouts
A simple measuring tape might seem trivial, but it’s one of the most essential tools I bring to every location scout. By measuring the exact dimensions of windows, corridors, or rooms, I can plan with precision.
Why it matters: These measurements help determine what gear is needed, from lighting setups to camera movements. For instance, if I know a corridor is too narrow for a dolly, I can plan to use a gimbal instead.
Practical tip: Combine this with your lighting plan. Knowing the size of a window helps you decide whether you need a silk or ND gel, or if natural light will be sufficient at a certain time of day (more on this later).
Pro tip: Always jot down these dimensions and incorporate them into your lighting and camera setup plans. They save you from nasty surprises on set.
2. Cadrage App: Your Pocket Framing Assistant
The Cadrage app has been a revelation for framing during location scouts. It allows you to pair your phone with your preferred camera and lenses to preview how your shots will look in real life.
Why it matters: It takes the guesswork out of lens choices and framing. Instead of imagining how a 35mm might look in a tight space, you can see it on your phone and adjust accordingly.
How I use it:
Scout locations with my phone, using the app to visualize different focal lengths.
Take screenshots and share them with the crew, giving everyone a clear idea of the framing before shoot day.
3. Set.a.light 3D: Planning Lighting Like a Pro
Set.a.light 3D is hands-down one of the best tools I’ve used for pre-visualizing lighting setups. It allows you to recreate your location digitally using the precise measurements you’ve taken with your measuring tape.
Why it matters: It eliminates the need for guesswork on set. You can test different lighting setups in the software, saving time and energy during production.
How it works:
Input the dimensions of your location.
Add lighting equipment and experiment with placement to see how it affects your scene.
Print or save the diagrams to share with your gaffer and crew, ensuring everyone is on the same page.
This tool has made me more confident in my lighting decisions and has significantly reduced the time spent tweaking setups on shoot days.
Bonus: Sun Tracker App
Natural light is unpredictable, but apps like Sun Seeker or Helios Pro allow you to track the sun’s movement at your location on specific days and times.
Why it matters: Knowing where the sun will be during your shoot allows you to:
Schedule scenes that rely on natural light for the right time of day.
Plan backup lighting setups for when the sun isn’t in your favor.
Practical use: I often use this in tandem with the measuring tape and Set.a.light to map out how sunlight interacts with the space. For example, if sunlight pours through a window at 4 PM, I can decide to use it as a natural key light or block it out for a controlled look.
