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How to Hit Your Mark. Walking to a spot on the floor without looking down is a difficult
part of screen acting. These tips will help you hit your mark without a hitch. You will
need Mental note of the marked spots Walk-through rehearsal Step count Visual markers Motivation
Practice and video camera and tripod. Step 1. Note the spots on the floor that are usually
marked with bright-colored gaffer tape in an "X" or "T" formation. There may be one
or several in each scene. To stay in the frame and in focus, you must hit them exactly. Step
2. Do a walk-through rehearsal, saying your lines and stopping at the marks at the appropriate
places in the script while counting your steps to know exactly how many steps lead to each
mark. Repeatedly walk from your first position to your mark until you can literally do it
with your eyes closed. Step 3. Look for visual markers, like a piece of furniture or other
decor, at your eye level during blocking run-throughs. Don't use other actors as markers; they may
not be consistent in their movements. Step 4. Have a motivation in mind when you walk
to each mark to avoid looking stilted. If there is no natural way to proceed to a particular
mark, discuss it with your director. Step 5. Practice at home before coming to set,
with a video camera on a tripod filming you. Hitting marks will come more easily the more
you do it. Did you know "Martini Shot" is film set slang for the wrap shot or last take
of the day – rooted in the old inside joke: ''The next shot is in a glass.''