Arrive at the location before the rest of the crew. Consult the shot list (it is prepared by the director and lists every shot to be filmed in each scene) and shooting script (which includes director notes for each scene). Focus on the scenes scheduled for that day of shooting. Walk through the set and consider how the action will be staged between the actors. Note where the camera will be placed for each setup (the position the camera takes for each point of view shot in a scene, in addition to required lighting).
Assemble the crew and ask for their attention. Position the camera for the scene's first setup (the master shot, which films the entire scene in a wide-angle view of the entire set) and block out the action with the actors. Blocking is determining where characters in a scene will stand, move or sit. If the actors have suggestions where and how they would like to move, consider them. These ideas often add to the expressive power of their performances.
Work closely with the cinematographer as lighting progresses. He oversees the camera crew and ensures lighting is done properly. Monitor the placement of lights and the visual feeling they create. For example, a dark, shadowy lighting setup conveys mystery or dread. Make sure the lighting for each setup enhances the tone or mood of that particular scene.
Begin the rehearsal. From the camera's position and point of view, watch how the movement of the actors appears to the viewer. Make changes to blocking if necessary, but work with the actors and ask for their input in alterations. Run through the scene as many times as it takes to ensure the actors are confident they are ready to film their performances.
Shoot the scene. Review the scene on the playback monitor with attention to technical or performance problems. The first take often displays the best performances, but shoot at least two more takes as backups (also called safeties) as a precaution against having to do re-shoots later due to any unforeseen difficulties. Once the setup for the master shot is completed, move on to the setups for closeups and reaction shots in the scene and repeat the "block, light, rehearse, shoot" procedure for each setup.