Cadence (Single-System Sound)

Utilize this AD script for call outs on shows with single-system production audio.

Overview

Single-system sound workflows record audio directly into the camera during production, creating synchronized picture and sound files at the point of capture. This post outlines the cadence procedures and organizational expectations associated with maintaining consistent single-system recording practices throughout production and post-production.

Consistent cadence workflows help productions maintain clean editorial organization, reduce synchronization problems, and avoid confusion when handling large amounts of footage and audio across multiple shooting days. Establishing disciplined recording and labeling practices early in production helps students develop reliable technical habits that support smoother downstream editorial and finishing workflows.

Cadence

“PICTURE’S UP!”

  • When you’re ready to go for picture.

“LAST LOOKS!”

  • “Last Looks” is only for Hair & Makeup and Costumes to do any final touches.

“LET’S LOCK IT UP! WE’RE GOING FOR PICTURE!”

  • “Lock it up” is to notify everyone to be quiet.

“ROLL CAMERA!”

  • DP speeds the camera and says “Sound and Camera Speed”.
  • AC voice slates (i.e 2 Alpha Take 1).
  • AC calls “Mark” and clacks the slate’s chevrons.
  • DP calls “Set” when they are framed up, in focus, and ready to go.
  • Director will then call “Action” and then “Cut”.
  • 1st AD will say “Cut on picture. Stand by.”

After each “Cut,” the 1st AD checks with camera and sound to see how it was for them, then they check with Director to see if they want to go again.

“WE’RE GOING AGAIN!”

  • Make sure everyone is ready. Then call the cadence once more.

“PICTURE’S UP! LOCK IT UP! ROLL CAMERA!”

  • Call goes as above until the director calls “Cut”. AD repeats the “Cut”.
  • AD continues to ask “Going again?” until they are told “Got that”.
  • Once the AD hears “Got that” they then call:

“GOT THAT! MOVING ON! THANK YOU.”

  • Moving on…

“NEW DEAL! CAMERAS MOVE! WE’RE GOING TIGHTER!”

  • “New Deal” means the camera(s) are moving to their next setup position.
  • “We’re going tighter” references that the set is moving on to a tighter frame. This is because we typically shoot scenes starting with the widest frame and then working towards the tightest frames.
  • If you’re moving on to the next scene then call:

“GOT THAT SCENE! MOVING ON TO SCENE ‘X’. LET’S CLEAR THE CREW AND BRING IN FIRST TEAM (OR CAST) TO REHEARSE.”

  • Moving on…