5 Things you should have on set:
I love working on sets and creating content. As a host, entertainment journalist, podcaster, and multi-creative, I find myself on sets quite a bit. Especially before Covid changed everything. For my hosts, creatives, and talent, here’s a list of things I like to have handy on set. I hope it helps you, too!
Starbucks - or whatever makes you feel focused, energized and clear-headed. Though most sets have specific shoot times, you never know what the day will entail. Always make sure you have your good coffee, tea or anything that you may need with you as you go on to set. Most sets will have a craft table, but just in case, have your things that you need. Always bring a little snack as well just in case you hate what’s offered or are on a strict diet. When you work on larger projects, an assistant will ask you for specific needs. Always have your go-to’s handy.
Research. The most important thing you need before you enter any set is a breakdown, outline, or pre-production call sheet that helps you understand what is being asked of you for that specific project. In my personal experience, it has been helpful to know the who, what, why, when, and where - all that they teach you in journalism school. When you are going onto a set, you should always keep in mind what you are talking about and with who if there is a panel, where the set will be, and when your call time is.
Your own makeup bag, just in case. One of the worst things that ever happened to me was when I was on a set in Chicago, and I was given a makeup artist who was “good” and “highly recommended,” according to producers. For black women especially, it is so important to know the artist or have a makeup artist that you like to work with when you are going to set. Though things have definitely changed in the last couple of years, it is still not a surprise when a non-black artist’s kit doesn’t have your skin tone, or they just don’t know what to do with your melanin. I made that mistake once and never again. I ended up having to redo my whole face. Child. Bring your makeup bag and a brush, just in case.
Water. Now, I don’t care how big or small the set is, they will most likely have water. I always like to bring some with me just in case they have a water that I hate, like Voss, Dasani, or Evian. Yes it’s bougie but it’s real. If you want a Smart or Essentia water, go pick one up just in case before you get to set. The worst that can happen is that you have some extra water for your ride back home.
A good book/your phone charger. Set life is very much a process of “hurry up and wait.” There is a lot of downtime for setting up lighting, audio, going over certain scripting, setting up green rooms, and changing certain things in real time… So there will be some downtime where you will need to entertain yourself, keep your energy up, or even take a breather on your breaks. If you get bored of scrolling easily, bring a book to keep your mind engaged!
Honorable mention:
An alternate top/dress. Again, this is all dependent on how big or small the project that you are working on is, but in my experience, it is always helpful to have an extra top with you. If you are coming to a set where you are unfamiliar with the wardrobe stylist, always bring a look that you know looks good on you on camera.
A bomb playlist. Very similar to what I was saying in point five, set days can be long and drawn out. I always listen to 80s Janet to help me get my energy in the mood. When those coffees aren’t picking up your spirit in the way they should, a good song and dance moment will always get your spirits high and your high vibrations flowing. I highly recommend it!
Let me know what you bring to set on socials.