Look at the Shot Itself
When shooting on videotape, there is likely to be a monitor on location. This is immensely useful as it makes the job of giving an accurate shot description very simple. There is also the facility, in matters of dispute over continuity, of being able to play back the tape. But this facility should be used sparingly, as it wastes time on location and can lead to the general cry of ‘let’s play it back’ over the smallest query.
When shooting on film, the camera may be fitted with a video-assist system, in which case there will be a monitor for you to look at. While continuity can be done quite efficiently from a monitor, it is important to be able to work without one, otherwise you will experience enormous difficulties if there is no monitor on your shoot.
If you do not have access to a monitor, you can keep informed as follows:
Stick by the Director
At some point the director must communicate with the DOP, so if you have no idea what shot is to be taken, keep close to the director and DOP and you will find out.
Master Shot then Cutaways
Frequently the first shot that is taken in a scene will be some kind of master or establishing shot and the rest of the coverage will follow. But there are no hard-and-fast rules determining how a director will shoot any particular scene.
Position of the Zoom Handle
When shooting on film, the camera operator may be using a zoom lens by which he can adjust the magnification of the picture or, in other words, the amount of the scene that is included in the shot. Provided the lens is manually operated by a handle, you can judge the size of the shot by the position of the handle. But do find out first whether the wide-angle setting is at the top or bottom of the lens, as they vary. Video cameras have a motorised zoom.
Keep Close Behind the Camera
Always stand as close to the camera as possible. You cannot describe a shot accurately if you are looking at the scene from a different angle from the camera. Do not set yourself up with a folding table and camp stool some way away from the shooting. You may be comfortable but your notes will be wildly inaccurate.
No camera operator should object if you ask to look through the camera viewfinder during a rehearsal, provided you choose an opportune moment.
Always Ask
Finally, if all else fails, you can always ask.
Keep Close to the Camera
By keeping as near the director and camera operator as possible you not only keep abreast of what angles are being discussed and taken, but are also in a position to describe the shots more accurately.