Unwritten Rules of Set-iquette

So, you’ve snagged that job you wanted, the one you’ve been anxiously awaiting. You know your lines, have your wardrobe in place, freshened up your look … you’re good to go. Congratulations are in order. However, besides the usual rules of on-set behavior and pandemic protective measures, there are a few “unwritten rules” you might want to consider before arriving on set. No, you won’t see them posted or in any handouts issued, but please consider these as you go forth in your new role:

Let’s kick it off with the old adage “timing is everything.” Sure, you’ve heard it many times over and experienced it in relationships, sports and even getting stopped at every red light on Sunset. However, in this case it applies not only to your performance and being in sync with the other actors, but also to being on time for your call. Better yet, arriving early is a great habit to follow. You never know what kind of traffic tie-up you’ll encounter on the 101, 110 and the 5 — take your pick (with the 405, you can count on a tie-up no matter what the hour!). Arriving early reduces unneeded stress and, thus, you won’t need an extra coat of makeup to apply to your white knuckles incurred while driving on the edge.

Here's another tip that will prevent friends and co-workers from running for the hills: Have mints and/or breath spray on hand. Bottom line, be defensive — not offensive. Don’t be that person who people stand much further away from than the 6 feet CDC-suggested distance, while discretely fanning their scripts in front of their faces to ward off the obnoxious odor. Don’t induce an actor’s discomfort when the cameras are rolling, thereby causing the director to yell for another take because your colleague can’t focus on his character’s intent.

How about this one: Don’t be so glued to your cellphone. Yes, it’s understood these days that cellphones are akin to another appendage, but give it a rest when on the set. Instead, listen, observe and absorb who and what’s around you. You’re surrounded by professionals from whom you can learn many facets of the biz.

It's also a fascinating world behind the scenes. Hey, there might be a job you’ve eyed from afar and have considered from time to time outside of your acting career. And here it is, right in front of you. Check it out, but in doing so, let these pros do their jobs without conducting a Q&A with them while they’re concentrating on the task at hand. Wait for the right time, perhaps while standing in line at craft services, in order to chat ’em up for advice.

Which leads us to this: Don’t be a food grub in the food line. People notice, and then people will talk, which segues us to this: Don’t gossip. You never know who’s listening in, who knows who and who’s hiring who. Otherwise, you might find yourself one day on the outside looking in, wondering, “Okay, who gossiped about me gossiping?”

Another tip: Even though you might know the stars of the show, having worked with them before, be mindful before approaching them as they might be “in the zone” and camera-ready. It’s a fine line, though. Be pleasant but not too forward; there’ll be a time for schmoozing later.

And this one might serve as a simple reminder: Be considerate to those around you when practicing your lines. Everyone’s trying to find their calm before the cameras roll. Causing others to reach for the earbuds to drown out your overzealous preparation inhibits overall productivity and intrudes on their ability to focus. Tone it down or, better yet, find a place to yourself where you won’t disturb those around you.

With that said, if someone asks you to run lines, help your fellow actor out unless you’re getting it together and/or already in character. You never know: You might need their assistance someday. Besides, it’s a great way to become acquainted with somebody.

This might be more of a tip than an unwritten rule, but, regarding scripts, many actors shrink the regulation sized scripts to the more pocket-friendly 5x7 or even smaller, depending on your eyesight. It’s easy to refer to and less of a hassle to tote around or possibly leave behind. 

Something your mother should’ve taught you: Clean up after yourself. Be courteous to the next person who will sit on that chair or couch — especially in these pandemic times. Again, people notice. Good manners stand out just as much as the poor ones. Be that person.

Needless to say, everyone is on high alert and many are very sensitive to the pandemic. If you have to sneeze, do so in the crook of your arm or into your shirt. So what if you have makeup on? Far better to mess up your makeup than have your day ruined by someone leveling a “Clint squint” at you. 

These are just a few of the unwritten rules of “set-iquette” to consider, and should hold you in good stead with the others around you. It’s good advice to follow and might very well help to land you future roles on set.