Action (or "Action!")
Definition
"Action" is the verbal command given by the director (or first assistant director) to signal that filming has begun and that the cast and crew should begin performing their designated roles. It is one of the most iconic phrases in filmmaking and marks the transition from preparation to active recording. The command is typically preceded by "Camera" (to start the camera rolling) and "Sound" (to confirm audio is recording), forming the sequence: "Camera... Sound... Action!"
Contextual Usage
After the slate is clapped and all departments confirm they are ready, the first AD calls out, "Background action!" to cue the extras, followed by the director calling "Action!" to cue the principal performers.
About this section
Production — or "principal photography" — is the phase in which the film or video is actually shot. It is the most visible and, typically, the most expensive phase of the entire process. Every day on ...
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