Don’t Sleep on Krafty: Small Details That Make Big Impacts on Set

It's no secret, I LOVE FOOD. Often when production think about a shoot prep, their minds usually go to gear checks, call sheets, or set design and location. But there’s one (minor?) detail that often gets overlooked until the last minute, and it can make or break your cast and crew’s energy throughout the day: craft services (aka Krafty).

Snacks might feel like the smallest line item on your production checklist, but they’re what keep everyone fueled between meals, especially during long days or outdoor shoots. If you’ve “got the goods,” you’ll notice happier, more focused talent and crew. Here are a few production day snack essentials that go a long way:

What happens when you skip caffeine:

1. Don’t Forget the Caffeine

Sure, many sets have catered coffee, but don’t leave this up to chance. A box of coffee from Dunkin’ (or your local coffee shop) is an easy win for to get everyone moving. Beyond that:

• Stock up on energy drinks and sodas for quick boosts.

• Remember zero sugar or diet options—plenty of folks are sugar-conscious or watching calories.

• If your shoot is outdoors, toss in electrolyte drinks (like Gatorade or Liquid I.V.) to fight the sun drain. There's also Gatorlyte now, this is a must for me personally way less sugar than regular Gatorade.

2. Protein-Powered Snacks

Most Krafty tables lean on chips and sweets, but you’ll score points by offering high-protein, low-sugar options for those chasing their daily protein goals. Think:

• Beef or turkey jerky

• Protein bars

• Trail mix with nuts and seeds

Not only do these keep energy steady, but they also support muscle recovery for crew members hauling gear all day.

3. Fresh Fruits & Veggies

Clearly, a BUNCH of Bananas

Processed snacks are quick fixes, but fresh foods keep people sharp. Grab a fruit or veggie tray from the grocery store (the dips are usually included), or even a bunch of bananas. Bananas, grapes, or carrot sticks make for quick, portable energy boosts. Which is perfect when someone has a short moment between takes.

Krafty Etiquette & Best Practices

A few practical reminders:

• Keep Krafty accessible. Don’t stash it in the trunk of a locked car all day (yes, it happens). Make it easy for people to grab and go.

• Hydration matters. Especially in summer shoots, water and electrolyte drinks should always be in reach.

• Light lunches are better. Think cold cut subs (aka Pub Sub iykyk), wraps, or bagel sandwiches. Heavy dairy-laden meals can leave people sluggish or curdle in your stomach. If you wouldn’t eat it before a race, it’s probably not ideal before an afternoon of shooting.

Bonus Tip for Actors 🎬

Actors don't worry, I didn’t forget about you. Speaking of high energy, here’s a technique I came across recently that I tried myself: rehearse your lines while walking, jogging, or even running.

Why? On set, nerves (and the presence of a camera crew) spike your heart rate. If you’ve only rehearsed calmly at home, you might feel thrown when your body adds that extra adrenaline rush. Practicing lines while doing cardio mimics that elevated state, training you to stay sharp even when your heart rate is high. It’s a small trick that can prevent spirals when the pressure’s on.

Final Takeaway

Typical Krafty options

Craft services isn’t just about snacks, it’s also about energy management. By stocking up on the right mix of caffeine, protein, and fresh options, you’ll set the tone for a productive, focused, and positive production day.

Think of your Krafty table as your secret weapon: it keeps morale up, fights fatigue, and fuels better performances both behind and in front of the camera.Click here to see what I pack in my snack bag for long shoot days!

Do you have a go-to Krafty hack or favorite on set snack? Comment and let me know! I’d love to share more ideas with this community.