Death by Chainsaw

Today’s post is predominantly for the Production Office, but can be used by all crew members for their use of paper at home. Here are some basic tips:

1. Provide recycle bins
Make sure a bin is clearly indicated that it is for recycled paper only, and place it right next to the trash cans. If you’re buying paper in bulk, you can often use the boxes that they come in as recycle bins throughout your office or for the production office that is on the move (such as in the trailer or at base camp).

2. Use recycled paper
Not only is it important to have recycle bins for discarded paper, but also to use recycled paper. Use of recycled paper is a vital part of the cycle. There’s no point in recycling paper if we don’t use its byproduct.

3. Print only when necessary
Before you print ask yourself, “Do I really need to print this?”

If it is a file that can stay digital, do so. One of the great things about technology is that the files we use can stay in the digital realm. My cell phone has been a great tool. I use it to make a note of addresses that I either type into my notes application, or, if I’m in a hurry, I just take a picture of it on my camera phone. Then, I type the address into my GPS system. I also save flight information in my phone. So, instead of printing out 3 pages of an itinerary, I either save the Flight confirmation number as a note, or just use my email to pull up my confirmation information. Then, I type in that info when I check in at the airport.

Another way to go paperless is the use of the IPhone. As expensive as it is, I know there are a lot of you out there that have them. Instead of printing out your call sheets or directions, just download it to your phone.

When possible, send out your scripts via email. And when someone sends you a script to read that is still in development, read it on your computer, and type out notes in word. If you have Final Draft, you can add script notes directly to the file. It will insert a small window next to the text that the reader can double-click on to see your notes.

4. Print efficiently
Gone are the days when printing on both sides is considered informal. When you have to provide a hard copy of your script to someone, print on both sides. If you’re providing multiple pages of any file, it should be a general rule of thumb.

Check and recheck. How many times have you printed something out only to realize that you made a typo? Make sure you thoroughly read your files before printing.

Use print preview. There are so many internet pages that I print out where that last page contains an advertisement or a single line of text. Check it out in Preview first, then print out only the necessary pages.

On several sets I’ve worked on, Sides were shrunk to half their size and printed on half of an 8x11 sheet of paper. Not only is it more efficient, but it’s easier for Keys and Actors to carry the scenes of the day in their back pocket.

5. Know when to say when
If you’re a bit lower on the totem pole, ask yourself if you really need the sides that get passed around on set. PAs or 2nd ADs, keep track of who says “yes” and who says “no.” So, for the following days, you know exactly how many sides to photocopy, and you’re not printing out any excess.

6. For the OCDs
I separate my paper into 3 sections: Everyday paper, Specialty Paper, and Scratch Paper. Next to the printer, use trays that are clearly labeled.

Everyday paper is of course your low-grade RECYCLED paper that you can use for things like call sheets, sides, shot lists, etc. Specialty Paper usually will have stock paper or photo paper. Anything that is a heavier stock than your Everyday Paper.

Scratch Paper will include paper that’s already been printed on. As a cinematographer, I get sent so many scripts that never make it to production. And they end up collecting dust on my desk waiting to be realized. Whether it be old scripts, call sheets or extra copies, I set those aside instead of throwing them in the recycle bin. I use them to print things like Maps or directions for PAs, personal notes that I need to take with me on the go, or film festival itineraries. For the most part, I use it for information that I know only I will see. It gives paper a second life, if you will. It’s where you can make up a bit for throwing down the extra cash for recycled paper.

Overall, it’s about making it easy for everyone to recycle and conserve. The more organized your office space is, the better.