originally appeared on Entertainment Weekly and was reprinted here with permission.
I’ve got a few things to share with you about the process of getting your digital camera cover done for an upcoming documentary.
I’m not going to tell you what to do, but if you want to learn, you can.
1.
Make a List.
A simple list is everything.
A few hours to write down the ideas you have for the cover, how it will look on the screen, and what you want in the frame.
2.
Write it down in a Word document.
3.
Save it somewhere.
4.
Get an assistant to copy and paste.
5.
Keep a spreadsheet for reference.
6.
Go to the local book store and buy a copy of the film for a reasonable price.
7.
Send a photo of the cover to the producer.
8.
Send them a list of the people and places on the list that you want them to talk to on set.
9.
Send an email to the producers asking them what they would like to see on the cover.
10.
When you receive the email, pick up the phone and ask them to send you an assistant copy of their list of possible locations and the locations you want on the photo.
11.
Make sure you get everything.
Make it simple.
12.
Make your list of what to ask for.
13.
Get it out and get it done.
14.
Send the assistant copy to the editor.
15.
Send it back to the studio and get your cover done.
This process takes a lot of work, but it is absolutely worth it.
You may be surprised by how quickly you’ll be able to get your print cover done!
