Performer Stuff reached out to Actor/Writer Cullen Douglas to give us his thoughts to working on a film set for the first time.  Cullen is most recognized by fans for his recurring roles on Agents of S.H.I.E.L.D. and Scandal. He just co-starred alongside James Remar, Lea Thompson, and Allison Paige in the film, The Dog Lover, that premiered nationwide on July 8^th. Below is Cullen’s wonderful response.

Congrats! All those classes, coaching sessions, auditions, and callbacks have finally paid off – you have a scene in a real film!  Imagine you’ve just arrived to shoot the scene. Now what? Well, first off, remember –

1. Everyone is just as anxious as you are.

Everyone -The Producers, Director, the Star, other Actors, Grips, the Craft Services Dept. They all want to do their best and make a film that will last a lifetime and win buckets of awards. So please, just relax, breathe, and repeat… You can’t do your best work if you’re stressed.

2. You’re going to hurry up and wait.

When you arrive on set, you’ll find (maybe in your trailer) a CALLSHEET that lists all the scenes being filmed that day. Your name/character name and scene number will be on it. If there are three scenes ahead of you, get comfortable. Grab a book, do your taxes (I have), or answer emails. Or better yet, open your door and start a conversation – with anyone.

3. Treat EVERYONE with respect.

I was offered the role of “Edison Po” on S.H.I.E.L.D., and I had never met the Producers. Just moments onto set, I passed two young, PA’s playfully sharing an ice cream cone. I smiled and said, “You guys look awesome, this is my kind of set!” We laughed. About ten minutes later, there was a knock on my door. It was the same two PA’s – except they weren’t PA’s at all… they were the husband and wife team of Executive Producers Jed Whedon and Maurissa Tancharoen. BE NICE!

4. Be prepared.

Yes, this one should go without saying. But, the reality is you may find yourself working alongside another actor who’s not as prepared. If you know your stuff and react appropriately to any curves thrown your way, I guarantee you’ll be the one the Director will remember…

5. Don’t bug the Director.

If there’s a huge problem, like the set is on fire, yes, speak up. But remember the Director is like the Captain of a ship; they have many duties. Relax, the Director chose you for the role. You don’t need to make friends (unless it’s organic). You’re there to do your job and go home. Let your work speak for itself, instead of you “picking the brain” of an already stressed Director.

6. Be human.

Mom always said, “To make friends, you have to be a friend.” If you’re lucky enough to have “lunch” with the cast and crew, fill up your tray of goodies and find a spot at a table, with anyone. Remember, it doesn’t matter. That PA today, may be a Director tomorrow. But in my humble opinion, don’t talk shop. They know you’re an actor. If they want to know more, they’ll IMDB you. Talk about your other interests, their interests, anything – just don’t be a one note actor. Be human.

7. Leave the place better than you found it.

You did it! You filmed your first scene in a film. Say your good-byes to everyone. Some may be handshakes, others a wave or a nod, but be human. Now go get out of wardrobe. And HANG UP your clothes — don’t be a slob! Respect. The head of the Wardrobe Dept. may be married to the Director. Just sayin’. Hold your head up high and trust that you’re going to get to do this all again another day. You’re an actor!