FAQ
PRE-PRODUCTION LINGO
Some of the language used in pre-production can be confusing, especially if you're new to the biz. Here are some common terms. Honestly, the words used and interpretation might differ from production to production, which is why it's best for the contractor and production manager to communicate using email as well as the telephone. This way both parties will have the details in their email history and a phone conversation will help keep expectations clear.
What is a "Soft hold"
A "Soft Hold" is when the production has organized or has tentative plans to shoot. If the gig falls through on the productions end or the contractor is offered more money (or a solid commitment/confirmation for the same days) a notification of the change is sent out and neither party is responsible.
What is a "HOld" (Firm HOLD, IN PENCIL)
A "hold" is when the production has the right to book the contractor before anyone else. When challenged by another company trying to book the same time, the company holding the date/s has to be notified to make a decision. Typically the production is given a day to decide to officially "book" (which means the production is required to pay the agreed sum). If they are unable to book the contractor or make a decision, the production will release those dates.
What is BEING "Booked" or "confirmed" (in the books, firm, buy the dates)
Being "Booked" means the dates are solid. It's happening.
What is an "audio package" (Kit)
The audio package is the gear the sound mixer brings with them on set. This will often include the field recorder, boom, lavs, ifbs, camera hops and timecode accessories. The gear included with the package is determined in pre-production by the needs of the production or by the sound mixer's standard kit rental packages.
What is a "Kill-Fee"
A "kill fee" is a payment to a freelancer when the project or shoot date/s are canceled. The amount of the fee is dependent on how much notification is given and the conditions of the project.
Production Lingo
What is an "i.f.b."?
What IFB stands for isn't really relevant, but in case you were wondering it means interuptable foldback or interuptable feedback. This refers to the system that provides monitoring of the production audio. The most general use of an IFB is for the director, producer, script or client to hear live monitoring of the production audio on set.
What is "M.O.S."?
"M.O.S." stands for "motor only sync", "motor only shot" or "mit out sound". This means not recording sound on a particular shot or take. MOS takes are common on film shoots during B-roll or when no useful sound is being generated.
What is "run and Gun" AND "O.T.F."?
"Run and Gun" is a shooting style often used in documentary film which means the crew will be very mobile and should travel light with extra batteries and media on hand so production can keep rolling.
"OTF" stands for On The Fly. A lot of times this refers to a style of interview where the subject is standing or moving around during the action.
"OTF" stands for On The Fly. A lot of times this refers to a style of interview where the subject is standing or moving around during the action.