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How to Work With Child Actors

Child actors are often considered to be extremely cute in television shows and movies. Their ability to act allows for realistic portraits of families to be put on screen. However, directing them is much different than directing more mature actors, and certain rules need to be applied. Here I will review special steps that can be taken when working with child actors.

Instructions

    • 1

      Prepare for the worst: they are not truly in control of themselves yet and relying on them to never mess up is not good practice.

    • 2

      Structure a shooting schedule around their abbreviated availability. Kids do not want to be on set for 15 hours.

    • 3

      Arrange all shots featuring the children to take place first, with different crew and cast calls for others.

    • 4

      Have a backup schedule in place in the event that a child actor needs an unexpected break. This way you don't lose any time, because time equals money in the world of film.

    • 5

      Be extremely patient with line flubs. However, also keep in mind that children who constantly mess up or lack focus do not belong on set.

    • 6

      Step 5 ties into the auditioning process. Do not settle, because the wrong actor can hold up a film.

    • 7

      Have fun. Kids usually respond best to fun, jokes and pranks, and they need to develop trust that comes with friendship in order to succeed.

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Film Production

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