Slating is an essential process in film production that helps organize footage and synchronise audio and video in post-production. The slate, a clapperboard, contains key information about each shot and provides an audio/visual sync point.
Key Information on the Slate
Production title
Director's name
Cinematographer's name
Date
Roll/card number
Scene number
Take number
Camera frame rate
Interior/exterior designation
Day/night designation
How to Mark the Slate
Use the scene number from the script (Scene 24)
Add letters for different setups within a scene (24A, 24B, etc.)
Increment the take number for each attempt (Take 1, Take 2, etc.)
Avoid using letters I, O, and Z as they can be confused with numbers 1
Proper Slating Technique
Fill out all relevant information on the slate before rolling
Hold the slate in the frame with the sticks open
Call out the scene and take information ("Scene 24 Alpha, Take 1")
Say "marker" before clapping the sticks 1
Clap the sticks together firmly to create a clear audio spike
Remove the slate from the frame after clapping
Additional Slating Tips
Use soft sticks (gentle clap) when slating close to actors' faces
For multiple cameras, slate where all cameras can see or do separate claps for each
If you forget to slate at the beginning, you can slate at the end of a take
Use gaffer's tape instead of markers to write on the slate to avoid smudging
Keep the slate simple, only fill out the necessary information
Develop a consistent slating system and stick to it
Accurate and consistent slating is crucial for organizing footage for editors, syncing audio and video in post-production, cross-referencing with script supervisor notes, and identifying preferred and bad takes.
By following these guidelines, you'll ensure a smooth post-production workflow and maintain professional standards on set.
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