How Long Is a Full Day on Set?

By Webmaster

  • How Long Is a Full Day on Set?

    (By Jim Webb)

    (Photo: Rene Ranisch | Pexels)

    When people think about the glamorous world of filmmaking, they often imagine red carpets, flashing cameras, and celebrities in designer outfits. However, behind the scenes, the reality of making a film or TV show is far from glamorous. One of the most demanding aspects of production is the long working hours. So, how long is a full day on set? The answer depends on the type of production, industry standards, and various unforeseen factors.


  • Standard Workday on a Film or TV Set

    A typical film set operates on a 12-hour workday. This standard is common in Hollywood and other major filmmaking hubs. However, these 12 hours do not include additional time for setup, wrap-up, and travel, which means cast and crew often work longer.

    Breakdown of a Typical Day

    A standard 12-hour shoot usually follows this structure:

    • Call Time: This is the time when actors and crew must arrive on set. For crew members working in departments such as lighting, camera, and makeup, call times can be much earlier than for actors.

    • Rehearsals and Blocking: Before filming begins, actors and directors go through rehearsals, and the director of photography (DP) plans camera movements.

    • Shooting Scenes: This takes up most of the day. Each scene can take hours to film, depending on complexity, number of camera angles, and unexpected delays.

    • Lunch Break: A one-hour meal break is typically required after six hours of work.

    • More Filming: The second half of the day resumes shooting, often lasting until late at night.

    • Wrap: Once the day’s scenes are complete, the crew must pack up, return equipment, and prepare for the next day.


  • Exceptions to the 12-Hour Rule

    While 12 hours is standard, many productions go beyond this limit due to tight schedules, budget constraints, or creative challenges.

    15-Hour or Longer Workdays

    It is not uncommon for film crews to work 14- to 16-hour days, especially for large-scale productions. Directors may push for more takes, special effects sequences may take longer to set up, or weather conditions may force delays.

    Shorter Workdays for Certain Productions

    • Commercial shoots often have shorter workdays, around 8-10 hours, since they are typically lower-budget and require less complex logistics.

    • TV sitcoms and talk shows may also have shorter days because they follow a structured format and film in controlled studio environments.


  • Real-Life Examples of Long Days on Set

    “The Lord of the Rings” – Grueling Shooting Schedules

    Peter Jackson’s The Lord of the Rings trilogy was one of the most ambitious film projects ever undertaken. The cast and crew endured six-day work weeks with 15- to 18-hour days for over a year. Viggo Mortensen (Aragorn) described some of the night shoots as never-ending, where actors spent hours in heavy armor and extreme weather conditions.

    Marvel Films – Long Days for Big Action Scenes

    Superhero films require intensive action choreography, visual effects, and reshoots. For example, Chris Hemsworth has spoken about the gruelling hours on Marvel sets, sometimes working 16-hour days for weeks at a time while wearing his heavy Thor costume.

    “Game of Thrones” – 55-Night Battle Shoot

    For the epic Battle of Winterfell episode in Game of Thrones, the crew filmed at night for 55 consecutive nights in freezing temperatures. Many actors and extras worked overnight 12-hour shifts, making it one of the longest and most difficult shoots in television history.


  • Why Are Film Set Days So Long?

    Several factors contribute to the long hours on set:

    1. Budget Constraints

    Time is money in filmmaking. Productions often try to shoot as much as possible in a limited time to avoid extra costs.

    2. Complex Setups

    Lighting, camera placements, and stunts take a long time to prepare. A single shot can take hours before actual filming begins.

    3. Weather and Location Issues

    Outdoor shoots depend on weather conditions, which can cause delays. Unpredictable factors like wind or rain can extend work hours.

    4. Creative Perfectionism

    Some directors insist on shooting multiple takes to achieve the perfect scene. Stanley Kubrick was known for his excessive retakes, sometimes pushing actors through dozens or even hundreds of takes in a single session.


  • The Impact of Long Hours on Cast and Crew

    Physical and Mental Exhaustion

    • Long workdays can lead to fatigue, affecting both performance and safety.

    • Crew members, especially those handling heavy equipment, are at risk of accidents due to exhaustion.

    Health Issues

    • Lack of sleep and irregular meal breaks can cause long-term health problems.

    • Studies have shown that prolonged overwork can lead to stress, anxiety, and burnout.

    Industry Push for Better Conditions

    In recent years, there have been growing concerns about crew welfare. Organizations like IATSE (International Alliance of Theatrical Stage Employees) have called for improved working conditions, including shorter workdays and guaranteed rest periods.


  • So, how long is a full day on set? While 12 hours is the standard, many film and TV productions push beyond that, sometimes reaching 15- to 18-hour days. From The Lord of the Rings to Game of Thrones, countless productions have pushed their cast and crew to the limits in pursuit of cinematic greatness. While the long hours are part of the industry, there is increasing awareness of the need for balance, ensuring that everyone on set can work safely and effectively without burning out.

    Recommended Posts

  • Ad

  • Sinners: A Review

    Sinners: A Review Ryan Coogler’s Genre-Bending Southern Gothic Is a Bloody, Brilliant Triumph (By Carmichael Phillip) A Southern Gothic with Bite Set in 1932 Clarksdale, Mississippi, Sinners follows twin brothers Smoke and Stack…

    Do Actors Get Paid Double for Playing Twins?

    Do Actors Get Paid Double for Playing Twins? The Truth Behind Dual Roles and Hollywood Paychecks (By Carmichael Phillip) The Short Answer: No, Not Automatically When actors are cast to play twins or…

    How Much Did Michael B. Jordan Get Paid for Sinners?

    How Much Did Michael B. Jordan Get Paid for Sinners? Inside the Actor’s Salary, the Film’s Success, and the Coogler-Jordan Partnership (By Carmichael Phillip) Michael B. Jordan’s $4 Million Payday: A Closer Look…

    Is Sinners based on a true story?

    Is Sinners based on a true story? Unraveling the truth and fiction behind Michael B. Jordan’s dual-role thriller (By Carmichael Phillip) Introduction: When Fact Meets Fiction The psychological thriller Sinners, starring Michael B….

    How do they film Twins with one actor?

    How do they film Twins with one actor? Behind the cinematic magic that lets one performer become two people at the same time (By Carmichael Phillip) Introduction: A Double Act with a Single…

  • Ad

  • How does Michael B. Jordan play Twins in Sinners?

    How does Michael B. Jordan play Twins in Sinners? The star of Creed and Black Panther takes on his most ambitious dual role yet in a psychological thriller where he must become both…

    How Can I Impress a Director?

    How Can I Impress a Director? Proven Strategies to Stand Out in a Director’s Eyes and Make a Lasting Impact (By Carmichael Phillip) Master Your Craft Before You Enter the Room Before you…

    How Do You Get Your Director to Like You?

    How Do You Get Your Director to Like You? Winning Over the Visionary: Professional Tips for Building Rapport with Your Director (By Carmichael Phillip) Understand Their Vision One of the best ways to…

  • Ad

  • Do casting directors look at Instagram?

    Do casting directors look at Instagram? **How Your Social Media Presence Could Influence Casting Decisions** (By Carmichael Phillip) The Growing Role of Social Media in Casting In today’s entertainment landscape, platforms like Instagram…

    Is it OK to follow up with a casting director?

    Is it OK to follow up with a casting director? **Navigating Professional Communication in the Acting Industry** (By Carmichael Phillip) Understanding the Role of a Casting Director Casting directors play a critical role…

    How long does it take for casting directors to contact you?

    How long does it take for casting directors to contact you? **Understanding the Waiting Game in the Audition Process** (By Carmichael Phillip) The Typical Timeline After an Audition For many actors, the time…

    Which Network Has the Most Commercials Per Hour?

    Which Network Has the Most Commercials Per Hour? Analyzing TV Networks, Their Advertising Loads, and Impact on Viewers (By Carmichael Phillip) Introduction: The Commercial Landscape on TV Networks Television networks rely heavily on…

    How long do commercials typically run for?

    How long do commercials typically run for? Understanding the lengths, formats, and examples of TV and online commercials (By Carmichael Phillip) Introduction: The Basics of Commercial Lengths Commercials are an essential part of…

  • Ad

  • What Happens After a Callback?

    What Happens After a Callback?Understanding the Final Steps Between Audition and Booking the Role (By Carmichael Phillip) What Is a Callback, and Why Does It Matter? In the world of acting and auditions,…

    How Many Commercials Are in a 30 Minute TV Show?

    How Many Commercials Are in a 30 Minute TV Show?Exploring Advertising Breaks and Their Impact on Viewing (By Carmichael Phillip) Introduction: The Role of Commercials in Television Television programming, especially in the United…

    What is an F List Celebrity?

    What is an F List Celebrity?Understanding the Nuances of Fame and Notoriety (By Carmichael Phillip) Defining the F List Celebrity In the glamorous world of fame and entertainment, not all stars shine equally…

  • Ad

  • How to Do a Self-Tape on Your Own?

    How to Do a Self-Tape on Your Own? A step-by-step guide for actors auditioning solo from home (By Carmichael Phillip) Understanding What a Self-Tape Is A self-tape is a video audition that actors…

    Do Actors Really Kiss When Acting?

    Do Actors Really Kiss When Acting? The truth behind on-screen romance and what happens when the cameras roll (By Carmichael Phillip) The Big Question: Is the Kiss Real or Just Movie Magic? For…

    Can I Self-Tape on My Phone?

    Can I Self-Tape on My Phone? A Comprehensive Guide to Self-Taping Using Your Smartphone for Acting Auditions (By Carmichael Phillip) The Rise of Self-Taping in the Acting Industry The casting world has evolved…

    Do You Have to Be Skinny to Be an Actor?

    Do You Have to Be Skinny to Be an Actor? Exploring Body Image, Typecasting, and the Evolution of Diversity in Hollywood (By Carmichael Phillip) Hollywood’s Historical Obsession with Thinness The film industry has…

    Do Actors Have Fun on Set?

    Do Actors Have Fun on Set? Behind the Scenes: Laughter, Pranks, and Camaraderie in the Acting World (By Carmichael Phillip) The Myth of the Glamorous Set To the general public, the life of…

  • Ad