reshoot

Reshoot is the re-filming of one or more scenes after principal photography has wrapped or after an initial rough cut. In film and television production, reshoots (often referred to as additional photography) are undertaken to address issues identified during editing, test screenings, or post-production work, or to expand or alter the story. Reshoots can involve re-recording dialogue, altering endings, or adding new visual effects, and may use the same locations or require new ones.

Reasons for reshoots include correcting performance problems, fixing continuity errors, weather or lighting issues, technical problems with effects, budget changes, or creative decisions to improve pacing or tone. They may be planned as pickups before production begins, but most commonly occur after principal photography, sometimes months later.

The process typically involves producers and the director evaluating footage, preparing a shot list or script for the reshoot, securing locations, arranging cast availability, and coordinating with departments for sets, props, costumes, and visual effects. Filming uses the same crew and often the same cast, though some roles may use doubles. Post-production steps such as editing and color grading may occur with the new material and be integrated with previously shot footage.

Reshoots carry financial and schedule risks, but when well-managed they can salvage or strengthen a project’s final cut. Excessive reshoots can delay releases and raise public scrutiny about production problems. Related concepts include pickups and principal photography.