What Happens When the Power Goes Out Mid-Shoot? Here’s How We Handled It
Recently, we had a bit of a curveball on a shoot that turned into an example of how preparation and flexibility can make all the difference.
We were in the middle of an important interview when—out of nowhere—the power went out. Right in the middle of filming, in fact. It was about 10 AM, and we were rolling. We had a tight schedule with our client and the interviewee, and rescheduling would have been tricky. Not to mention, we had important footage we still needed to capture.
Xcel Energy said they’d have the power back on by 3 PM. But as any seasoned production team knows, waiting for a power outage to be resolved can throw an entire shoot out of sync.
So What Did We Do?
Instead of panicking, DMM Productions is always prepared for the unexpected. We immediately pivoted, adjusted our schedule, and started brainstorming alternatives to make the most of our time on set. Here’s how we handled the situation:
New Schedule: We quickly created a new schedule that allowed us to keep filming and make progress on other elements of the project. We focused on B-roll, worked on adjusting lighting for different shots, and prepped for when the power came back.
Creativity in Crisis: We rethought the shots we had planned for the interview, adjusting to the available light and environment. We even got a little creative, filming some new content while waiting for the lights to come back on.
And Then, The Power Came Back On… Early
Around noon, to our surprise, the lights came back on—three hours ahead of schedule. We were back in business and picked up right where we left off. The schedule we had put in place earlier allowed us to seamlessly transition back to the original plan without missing a beat.
What started as a minor disruption turned into a smooth recovery that ensured our shoot went forward as planned. It was a reminder of how important it is to be prepared for anything, from weather disruptions to technical challenges.
Why Flexibility and Planning Matter
What could’ve been a costly setback turned into a success because we had a plan in place. We’ve learned that, in video production, it’s not just about the gear or the perfect shot—it’s about being adaptable when things don’t go according to plan.
Whether it’s power outages, weather delays, or last-minute changes, being able to pivot quickly and adjust the schedule ensures we deliver top-quality work on time—no matter the obstacles.
The Takeaway
At DMM Productions, we believe in being prepared for anything. Having a contingency plan in place, staying flexible, and thinking on our feet allow us to deliver exceptional results even when things don’t go as expected.
If you’re looking for a video production company that can handle the unexpected with ease while ensuring your project stays on track, give us a call. Let’s talk about how we can bring your vision to life—on time and on budget!