What is a Boom Operator

The Boom Operator is responsible for appropriate microphone placement on the set despite potentially impeding conditions that would otherwise limit the ability to capture adequate sound. Boom Operators ensure that microphones are placed in a way that they do not impede the actor’s ability to function on the set and they also ensure placement out […]

What is a First Assistant Camera

A First Assistant Camera is responsible for adjusting or adapting the focus to accommodate changes to the focal length (distance of the camera lens from the subject) when characters are moving closer or further away from the camera. The First Assistant Camera (AC) is usually requested by the Director of Photography or the Camera Operator […]

What is a Production Sound Mixer

The production sound mixer is responsible for ensuring that all recorded dialogue is properly heard and clear during the filming production. This is a challenging role that requires advanced listening skills. Production sound mixers work in challenging environments where unwanted noises are likely to intrude with the otherwise properly displayed emotions of the script. Mixers […]

What is a Gaffer?

Also referred to as the Chief Electrician, Supervising Light Technician or Chief Lighting Technician, the Gaffer is responsible for all of the electrical work on a production. Gaffers will work closely with the Director of Photography to create the appropriate lighting effects by installing light equipment and arranging the power supply to achieve the desired […]

What is a Second Assistant Director

Second Assistant Directors are often referred to as Second ADs or Seconds. Their role is to act as an assistant to the First Assistant Director in ensuring that film productions orders are properly carried out. During production, Seconds have the responsibility of preparing the “call sheet” which documents the daily logistics of filming and is […]

What is a First Assistant Director

Also referred to as the “First AD” or simply just “First,” the First Assistant Director is the right-hand man (or woman) to the Director. First Assistant Directors take on various responsibilities in production allowing the Director to focus heavily on the creative process. First AD’s break the script down piece-by-piece into individual shots on a […]

What is a Film Director

You might be wondering, “What is a Film Director?” The Film Director is the creative voice and driving force behind the overall production of a film. Directors link all working parts in production, technical and creative teams together to effectively bring the creative vision to life through the film. Directors are responsible for several major […]

What is a Costume Designer & What Role Do They Have on the Film Set?

Costume Designers are responsible for working on costumes for actors and actresses on the television, theater or film set. They come in at the beginning of pre-production to devise a plan and create or acquire the costumes necessary to appropriately dress actors and extras for their roles in the production. Costume Design must take place […]

What is an Art Director

Art Directors are responsible for a wide range of production projects specifically related to the artistic design of the film. They act as project managers for the Art Department ensuring that the Production Designer’s creative vision for each location and film set is carried out in a timely manner. The Art Director will help to […]

What is a Camera Operator

What is a Camera Operator? This blog should answer this question in detail. Acting as direct support to the Director of Photography and the Director, Camera Operators play a vital role on the film set and must carry out the directions of the director to portray the creative vision through shot composition and development. Camera […]