Film crew members: Who does what in a set for a movie?
If you run only a single-person production firm or work with a group of co-workers, you need to be aware of what individuals do on a film crew. Apart from the film's budget and timeframe and the kind of project the project is based on the size of the crew required. If you're shooting a documentary that is intimate such as this, you'd prefer the team for production to be smaller than for an extensive commercial shoot.
We've assembled a glossary that lists the most important crew members in any video shoot. Be aware that the smaller your team, the more hats each member will wear.
Find out more about them in the following article.
Executive Producer
Executive Producers are the cash people. They've lined up the cash to finance the project. In most cases, the amount of executives in the film will directly correlate with how much cash is backed by the movie. More money means more executives. Lower budget, you might just require one. Some brands and clients help fund projects, and they can also serve in lieu of the Executive Producer.
Director
The Director is responsible of, well, all things. From overseeing all creative elements of the movie to coaching the actors to selecting the score director is the point-person and director who is responsible for bringing this project to life.
Producers
Producers serve as the main coordinator for any level of filmmaking and for that reason, there are a variety of types of producers. There are financial producers marketers, creator producers, and on endlessly. Decide the most essential execution points of your project and start filling in the gaps. With a limited set of resources just two or three Producers will be able to finish the work.
Production Assistant (PA)
The Production Assistant is perhaps the most vital role of the crew as they have the ability to help out in a myriad of ways -- from sharing the call sheet, to loading props and making that crucial coffee runs.
Line Producer
The Line Producer is responsible for the budget of the movie and also manages day-to-day requirements on the location. They make sure the vessel is operating and funded, and are among the most important people to be on the team.
Production Manager (PM)
The Production Manager supervises the day-to-day production issues, including budget, scheduling, and staffing. The PM generally reports to the Line Producer, who supervises the production coordinator.
Production Coordinator
The Production Coordinator is responsible for the management of the cast and crew logistics. Their main responsibility is to make sure that they are able to provide prompt delivery and setup of equipment and other gear.
1st Assistant Director (AD)
1. 1st AD is just what it sounds like An assistant to the Director. The person who prepares the film's schedule, coordinates the cast, and makes sure that the film is completed according to the schedule.
2nd AD
2. The 2nd AD helps the 1st AD to supervise the set. They oversee and distribute crucial documents like updated scripts and call sheets. For large-scale productions a 3rd AD is sometimes necessary.
Script Supervisor
The Script Supervisor tracks what has been shot and the changes added on the script. In addition to making notes of each scene as well as camera angles, they also keep an eye on lighting, props blocking, as well as costumes in order to guarantee the script's authenticity (as well as continuity in the movie).
Director of Photography (DP)
The DP works closely with the Director to decide how the film will look. For smaller projects the DP could also serve as the camera Operator. It's the DP that, along with the direction of the Director, takes executive calls on shooting and lighting.
Location Manager
The Location Manager is responsible for the responsibility of finding locations for the production, and also obtaining the necessary permits. While on set, they'll serve as the spokesperson for the cast if local officials ask about the film's permit.
Camera Operator
A camera operator shoots with the direction of a Director or DP.
1st Assistant Camera
Your first Assistant Camera is often the focus puller making sure that every image is sharp. In smaller productions you'll need a DP (or Camera Operator) can do this work.
2nd Camera Assistant
The second Assistant Camera (second assistant camera) is part of the film's logistical aspect of the shooting. The camera's assistants record all shot information on the slate, and then place it up in the front of the camera prior to every shooting. It's like: A and Act!
Production Sound Mixer
The production sound mixer will make certain that sound signals are properly recorded and then mixed at the appropriate time on set. Production sound mixers also selects mics, operates audio recording equipment, and sometimes mixes audio signals.
Boom Operator
The Boom Operator is the person who holds the boom microphone and is accountable for the mic's positioning and movements while filming. They're the ones who make sure that the microphone doesn't show up in the shot. For smaller set sizes, the Production Sound Mixer might do the job.
Key Grip
Key Grip handles all things related to gear. They are closely associated in conjunction with DP and oversee cameras, cranes, dollies lights, platforms, as well as all equipment on set. If you're not sure what a "Best Boy is and what they do, they're the primary aid to the primary grip or the gaffer.
Gaffer, Chief Lighting Technician
Your Gaffer designs and executes the lighting strategy on location. Like the Key Grip the Gaffers also work closely with the DP.
Special Effects Supervisor
Special Effects Supervisors are charged with executing all visual effects on your production. On set they'll run point the technical and creative problems associated with your film's effects.
Music Supervisor
The Music Supervisor works in conjunction with the Director to select what music will be used to accompany the film. They're in charge of sourcing composers, appropriate tracks for various scenes, as well as handling any music licensing.
Art Director
Art Directors are an incredibly common term in any creative industry, but on film they have a distinct control role over the entire course of the film. The Art Director is there to determine the general look and feel of the film's production design, and the film's overall aesthetic.
Production Designer
A Production Designer works closely with Director and DP. DP and Director in order to make the appearance of the movie, which includes every prop, set clothing, makeup, and more.
Props Master and Stylist
The Props Master in your film is in charge of sourcing, delivering, and keeping track of every prop that appears on screen. They usually work with Props Stylists to ensure that everything looks amazing on camera. If the crew is smaller, the stylist and director role may be handled by one person.
Painter
The makeup artist has a range of responsibilities depending on the type of video. In a typical documentary or a realistic one, they apply appropriate makeup so that the actors look right for the role they're playing. When you're making a film with woodland fairies or werewolves: you might need a few various makeup artists on the sets.
Hairdresser
The Hairdresser on set styles the hair of the actors at the right time and make sure it's on par with the setting and location. Through the course of production the hairdressers will apply a touch-up to the actors' hair, making sure everyone's hair stays looking sharp and fresh, even during a long day of shooting.
Costume Designer
The Costume Designer makes stunning costumes in keeping with the setting and characters. Based on the complexity of their designs it is possible that you will need the help of a seamstress for some of these ideas.