What Does OTF Mean?

OTF stands for “on the fly,” which is a term typically used to describe an impromptu interview. An OTF is usually done after an emotional scene to capture genuine emotional reactions to an event, if the scene that was just shot is in a location that will not be available later, or if there are certain characters who will not be filmed during the rest of the production. This is so that the production has materials they can use of specific cast members in a specific setting.

OTFs are often done for reality television shows, and they are meant to be very quick – no more than about five or ten minutes since they are usually done with a handheld camera and camera operators need to be mindful about the amount of time they spend with a heavy camera on their shoulders.

OTFs are also useful if a production wants footage of a cast member explaining their actions while they are performing them, such as cooking or doing their normal “getting ready” routine.

If there isn’t much time for an OTF, here are three short questions that reality television editor Dan of the Reality 101 blog suggests asking to capture moments of sincere emotional reflection on something that just occurred:

• How do you feel about what just happened?
• How did you feel before it happened?
• How did you feel while it was happening?

If you are looking for professional camera operators or editors to help you shoot and edit OTFs for your reality television production, check out our online Nevada Production Directory to find experienced Nevada production crew or drop by our office and pick up a free printed directory!

If you offer production and film-related services in Nevada and are not yet listed in our Production Directory, you can learn more about how to sign up for the NPD here.

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