Entering a scene on the set can pose issues for the actor, director and the editor. When an actor enters it is usually from a fixed location and possibly crowded with crew, props, lighting and other equipment. Upon the call “Action” you will enter the set on a cue, of some sort, and it needs to appear to be realistic. When arriving into a shot you need to be completely in the character’s condition and mindset that is appropriate for the scene. This is best done through practice beforehand, probably working with the person in charge of continuity. A lot of times, shots will be interconnected and sometimes shot on different days so a spotter like the continuity director is a huge help.

This is a very common mistake made in low-budget pictures. You can lose an audience. For example, beginning a run on camera when your character should have been in full stride the entire time. The same is true when a character is leaving the scene. If a you are sobbing and hunched over then immediately stand straight up and are obviously out of character, the editor then has to find an alternate shot.

It is the responsibility of the actor or actress to be in character and proper movement when they enter on camera or exit off. On an independent set you are likely to get help remembering these continuity issues by many different people as long as you have a good cast and crew working with you. You don’t want to wind up with a scene that just can’t be put together in post. This is how some of your best acting ends up on the cutting room floor.