Maintaining continuity refers to making sure that when scenes are filmed out of sequence or re-shot from different angles, there are no visible disruptions when the scenes are edited together in reference to the same temporal and spatial setting. For example, if an actor is wearing a specific outfit for a dinner party scene, all shots related to that scene require that the actor wear the same outfit in the same condition so as to maintain continuity. If the actor is suddenly spotted missing a key element of their outfit, such as a tie, or if a piece of their wardrobe changes, like a watch being worn on different wrists, there is a break in continuity that will throw viewers off and distract them from the story.
Maintaining continuity is primarily the responsibility of the script supervisor. Script supervisors diligently document all placements of props, costume and wardrobe details, hair and makeup styles, background settings, actors’ movements, and more through continuity photos and script notes so that they can be duplicated if necessary.
When it comes to scenes that involve water or rain and an actor must get wet, it can be very time-consuming to reset the scene in order to do another take and maintain continuity. Resetting a scene would mean getting the actor completely dry again, redoing hair and makeup, being able to provide an identical set of dry clothes, and getting props and the rest of the set dry again as well.
In cases like this where it would be too time-consuming to reset a scene, all efforts are made to try to get the final shot in one take. Typically, this means setting up multiple cameras to capture a scene from all necessary angles in order to maximize the production’s time and effort in obtaining everything they need in one take.
If you are looking for a script supervisor to help you maintain continuity for your next production, check out our online Nevada Production Directory to find professional script supervisors in Nevada. We also have experienced camera operators to help you make the most of a single take in order to avoid re-shooting a scene.
We also have a variety of filming locations throughout Nevada as well as local studios offering full production services. Browse through our Nevada Filming Locations Database and contact us if you are interested in learning more about a filming location!
If you offer professional production services and are not yet listed in our Nevada Production Directory, you can learn more about how to sign up for the NPD here.