What I learned from making Dear Stranger (Pt 2)

• The actual improv's were good but they did not transfer well on the day of the shoot. Maybe it is best kept for day of the shoot.
• With directing actors, don't be afraid to repeat yourself. Not everything has to be new. Convince through sheer repetition. Actually describe key plot points even if it is obvious.
• I am confused when they ask me a question? Whether to answer fully or have them investigate, no way came out on top.
• You should have asked Steve about possibly changing his hair color, his current look was perfect.
• Not enough cutaways were prepared prior to shoot. Don't wait for editing or even at the day of the shoot. The best cutaways were the ones that were prepared in advance.
• If you are not prepared, you come into work afraid, feeling like a idiot, apologetic, in a haze. If you are not prepared in some aspect, get over it quickly. State that you are not prepared, tell people you need help. That makes them aggressive in trying to help you which is good.
• Try as hard as you can to create longer shots, even if the scene does not need it. Easier to cut it down than elongating it with slow mo.
• Do not hide behind the camera. Even there is a little break in the shooting. Set the camera down and talk to the actors. They prefer talking without the camera in your hands. They probably think they have more time to discuss and thus are more relaxed.
  
• There is no perfect casting. You have to develop the role for the actor as you develop them for the role. Some sweet spot in the middle is what you are looking for.