{"id":74014,"date":"2016-05-11T09:47:00","date_gmt":"2016-05-11T14:47:00","guid":{"rendered":"http:\/\/www.premiumbeat.com\/blog\/?p=74014"},"modified":"2016-05-11T09:56:05","modified_gmt":"2016-05-11T14:56:05","slug":"production-tips-6-ways-to-manage-cords-on-set","status":"publish","type":"post","link":"https:\/\/www.premiumbeat.com\/blog\/production-tips-6-ways-to-manage-cords-on-set\/","title":{"rendered":"Production Tips: 6 Ways to Manage Cords on Set"},"content":{"rendered":"

A film set can become a busy place. Here are some helpful tricks to keep those cords tidy and out of the way.<\/h2>\n

Top image via Shutterstock<\/a><\/em><\/p>\n

Whether it\u2019s a DIY two-man shoot<\/strong>, corporate video set-up<\/strong> or feature film production<\/strong>, there will always be lots of wires connecting lights and cameras and outlets. We\u2019ve compiled some of the best tips and tricks<\/strong> (and mantras) for cord management.<\/p>\n

1. LABEL, LABEL, LABEL<\/h3>\n

\"Tips<\/p>\n

Image via Amazon<\/a><\/em><\/p>\n

Label everything! Every cord, input and output should be accounted for in clear, easy-to-access letters<\/strong>. If everything is put together well enough, no one should ever ask what any cord is used for \u2014\u00a0it\u2019ll say clearly for them to read.<\/strong><\/p>\n

Ways of labeling include simple 3M Painter’s Tape<\/a>, tag label stickers<\/a> or portable printed label tags<\/a>.<\/p>\n

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2. Keep Them Together<\/h3>\n

\"Tips<\/p>\n

Image via Shutterstock<\/a><\/em><\/p>\n

As much as possible, try and keep running cords tied together<\/strong>. You\u2019d rather have one main line running down the middle of your set than several lines spread out for people to avoid. You can do this with tape, cord ties<\/a> or Velcro<\/a> (which can also help with labeling).<\/p>\n

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3. Tape Them Down<\/h3>\n

\"Tips<\/p>\n

Image via Wikipedia<\/a><\/em><\/p>\n

Taping down cables and cords is another helpful way to control the lines and keep them from scrunching up into foot-catching loops<\/strong>. When possible, the ideal line for each cord or bunch should be as out of the way as possible. Try lining against walls and avoiding walkways.<\/p>\n

Avoid duct tape as it can damage floors<\/strong>. Gaffer tape is ideal<\/a>. Lay out your line, tape your beginning and end points, and apply tape as needed to keep the line secure in between. If on carpet, consider Velcro 4\u201d Hook & Pile Tape<\/a> for endless reusability.<\/p>\n

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4. Go Wireless (When Possible)<\/h3>\n

\"Tips<\/p>\n

Image via Videolighting<\/a><\/em><\/p>\n

With recent technological advances, wireless options are more and more in vogue on sets<\/strong>. Wireless boom mics<\/a> are gaining popularity\u00a0and can help your audio department tremendously. Consider LED lighting<\/a> options when possible to simplify your set ups and provide greater accessibility.<\/strong><\/p>\n

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5. Wrap It Up (properly)<\/h3>\n

When wires are not in use, be sure to keep them wrapped up and out of the way<\/strong>. For those still uncomfortable with how to wrap wires, watch one of the many videos online for practice.<\/p>\n