What is a Matte Artist and What Job Do they Do on Set?

The Matte Artist or Matte Painter is responsible for producing animation for film that are painted representations of background landscapes, scenes, sets or essentially any other element that is difficult or impossible to film. Most of today’s matte painting is not actually done with paint, but rather digitally. Using various software tools and techniques matte […]
What is a Negative Cutter & What Role Do They Have on the Film Set?

The Negative Cutter is responsible for matching the original camera negatives back to the workprint so that prints can be made out of the negatives. We don’t see as many negative cutters in film production today because digital cameras and digital finishing has put an end to the use of film, but some still work […]
What is an ADR Editor & What Role Do They Have on the Film Set?

The ADR Editor is responsible for monitoring the actors as they view footage and provide voiceover for their lines to match the original dialogue of the footage. ADR editors come into the production once the film has been shot and the tracks have been properly recorded to a digital audiotape. ADR stands for Automated Dialogue […]
What is a Foley Artist & What is Their Job on Set?

The Foley Artist or Foley sound crew adds a level of depth to the film that helps audiences to immerse themselves into the production. Foley artists create sound for the film in various ways such as stomping to reproduce footsteps, slamming a door to produce the sound of the door slamming, or breaking a glass […]
Are There Industry Standard Rates for Video Production?

Video industry standard rates for video production rates vary as much as the quality and style of videos vary. That’s to say, and there are no “industry-standard rates” for video production. However, there are some industry standard rates or expectations for each resource that is utilized in video production, such as a videographer, director, film […]
What Makes a Good Production Assistant?

Whether you just entered the world of production or this is where you’ve been for quite some time, the role of a production assistant is likely where you started. If you’re still getting your feet wet in this role, following these tips to become a good production assistant may help you find your way to […]
How Much Does it Cost to Hire a Location Sound Mixer?

If you were wondering “how much does it cost to hire a location sound mixer,” then it’s important to understand the role and responsibilities they will play for your production. The location sound mixer, or sound recordist will work with you during pre-production and production of the video project to ensure top-notch audio. The total […]
What is a Second Unit Director

The Second Unit Director is responsible for shooting various supplemental footage that complements the original footage. This includes establishing any major shots related to stunts, insertions or cutaways that make the film come together seamlessly. This individual works separately from the first unit which is responsible for overseeing initial footage capture. The second unit director […]
What is a Unit Publicist

The Unit Publicist is responsible for providing vital conduit in between the various members of production, cast, crew and media as the film shoot takes place. This role is also sometimes referred to as UP for short. The UPs work with several members of the team to ensure that publicity is procured and that all […]
What is a Property Master

The Property Master or Prop master is responsible for controlling various aspects of the property departments including production inventory, maintenance of props, allocation, and return of props and various budgeting needs. Property masters procure property for production, take care of props during the production, and ensure that all necessary property is available on-time and returned […]