How To Make A Production Binder

A production binder helps you stay organized during and after your shoot. Plus it keeps all of those pesky documents and contracts in one place. So let's go over what a production binder is, and most importantly, what's inside them.
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A production binder is a binder that all your key players, such as your director, producer and assistant director have a copy of on set. And it contains things like copies of the call sheet, storyboard, script, shot list, and anything else, a key player might need. Having copies of these help ensure that everyone is on the same page and know exactly what shot you're on when shooting. So if anybody wants to see a storyboard or needs a copy of the script or wants to see a schedule, Rob has copies of all those if you want to see it and get like a clear picture of what we're doing.
Also production binders can be a little different for each crew member. For example, the director won't need things like personal releases and deal memos, but they definitely need copies of the storyboard and script. So feel free to cater each binder to the needs of that specific crew member. Setting up your production binder is really based on your personal preference, but here are some steps that I've found that work best on my shoots.
First, get a binder. If you're doing a short film, a one inch binder will work just fine. Second, get dividers or tabs so you can clearly see each section. This will help you quickly and efficiently access documents you might need while on set. The first page of your production binder should have the call sheet for that day. This way, all the main important info for the shoot is readily accessible.
Next, I like to place a copy of the schedule so that everyone can be on the same page, no pun intended. Then I usually like to place a copy of the storyboard and or shot list. Again, this is helpful so that every key crew member has a visual representation for the shots.
Next is a copy of the script. And if you've done a line script ahead of time, then I would recommend including that version of the script. This is especially useful for directors on set so they can clearly see if they are missing any important coverage. These are pretty much all of the elements a director will need in their binder, but your producer and assistant director will need a little more. For them I recommend including sections for each of the talent.
There they can include personal releases, sag contracts, or any other paperwork that the talent might have signed. Next I recommend having a section for your permit if you have one. And finally, in the very back of the binder, I recommend having a section for extra documents. This is where the producer or assistant director can have extra blank forms just in case one is needed on set. You can also include other things in your production binder, such as equipment lists, talent headshots, budgets, receipts, and so on.
However, you might also want to just have a master production binder for these assets, so you can keep your one on set light and easy to use. Either way, feel free to customize your production binder to what works best for you.
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[@Sonyees]

I’m embarking upon a short video project that I hope to turn into a potential documentary. I literally googled “production binder for documentaries” and this video popped up. It’s great to see your face, and I love that that your video popped up to help answer my question!

[@Film_It_Yourself]

Oh my goodness!! That’s amazing! I love that! Also good luck with the documentary project! I’m more than happy to answer any questions you might have!

[@brycepoole7697]

Awesome, these are great tips! Great tip about having extra forms handy on set, 100% have had a need for that before!

[@Film_It_Yourself]

Thank you! :)

[@JarredCordova]

Is it bad that like for my entire professional career in commercials, documentaries, and even now... tomorrow... while I do pick up photography my "binder" looks like your table in the intro? Stains and all? Haha This reminds me of my 8th grade video production teacher "Jarred, you've got talent... but you can't do homework or stay organized for nothin" nightmares honestly! Again, thank you for everything you do... I need to step my game up!

[@Film_It_Yourself]

Hahaha no worries! I was completely unorganized when I first started too. You should see the mess my production binder for my short film Hold Up is!

[@williamdegeest]

AS A SOCIETY, WE CAN NOT LET SPENCE GO SNACKLESS.

[@Film_It_Yourself]

Start the petition now!!! 🐕