Every filmmaker makes mistakes. What separates the pros from the rest is whether or not they learn from them. In this video, I share the six filmmaking sins I’ve either made myself or seen time and time again—and how to avoid them so your shoots run smoother, your footage stays safe, and your sanity stays intact.
Watch the full video here:
6 Filmmaking Sins to AVOID | My Videography Mistakes & Bad Practices
Why This Video Matters
The truth is, most videography problems aren’t about gear or budget. They come down to habits, workflow, and mindset. These six mistakes are subtle, but they can destroy a project or make a shoot ten times harder than it needs to be. Avoiding them is one of the easiest ways to level up your filmmaking.
In the video, I break each one down with real-world examples, hard lessons, and practical advice you can start using on your next shoot.
The 6 Filmmaking Sins
Here’s a quick overview of the mistakes I cover in the video:
Fix it in post: This mindset causes more stress and wasted time than anything else. If something looks off, fix it during the shoot. Relying on post-production to solve problems you could have avoided is a dangerous habit.
Fail to prepare: Walking onto a shoot without a plan is asking for trouble. From shot lists to lighting setups to scouting, preparation is key to staying calm and in control during production.
Be punctual: Turning up late or rushing setup time creates tension, delays, and compromises. Being on time—or better yet, early—builds trust and gives you the headspace to do things right.
Don’t format your SD cards (until you need to start a new project): Not clearing and organizing your media ahead of time leads to chaos, missing files, and the worst-case scenario—running out of space mid-shoot.
Care for your gear and clean it: Your equipment is only as reliable as the condition it's in. Dirty lenses, loose mounts, and uncharged batteries can ruin shots. A few minutes of maintenance saves hours of frustration.
Backup your footage: This one is non-negotiable. If you’re not backing up your media in at least two separate locations, you’re gambling with your hard work. One failed drive or accidental overwrite can mean losing everything.
What You’ll Learn
This video is about more than just pointing out mistakes. I show you how to correct them and build a more reliable filmmaking workflow. You’ll learn how to adopt better habits, organize your gear, streamline your shooting process, and keep your data safe from disaster.
Watch the full video here:
6 Filmmaking Sins to AVOID | My Videography Mistakes & Bad Practices
Who This Is For
If you're a freelance videographer, filmmaker, content creator, or anyone involved in video production, this video is for you. It’s especially useful if you're still refining your workflow or trying to avoid the common pitfalls that trip up even experienced shooters.
Whether you're working solo or on set with a team, these lessons are applicable to every project.
Final Thoughts
Filmmaking is full of challenges, but a lot of pain can be avoided with the right habits. The six mistakes I share in this video are ones I’ve learned the hard way. Avoiding them won’t just make you a better filmmaker, it’ll make your life easier and your clients happier.
Check out the video, and take the opportunity to reflect on your own workflow. Small improvements can make a huge difference.
Watch the full video here:
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=VHC8ycSChIM