FILM PRODUCTION MANAGEMENT
SET ROLES AND THEIR DEPARTMENTS IN FILM PRODUCTION
SET-> A set is a scenery modified for film production
Production Department
Executive Producer
An executive producer is usually an investor in the project
or someone who has facilitated the funding of the project. There may be
multiple executive producers on a project, depending on the financing
arrangements.
Producer
The producer initiates, coordinates, and controls matters such
as raising funding, hiring key personnel, contracting, and arranging for distributors.
The producer is involved throughout all phases of the process, from development
to completion of a project
Casting Director
The casting director is in charge of finding the right
performers for a given project. For
obvious reasons the casting directors’ job is often finished long before
physical production begins and, in that sense, they operate entirely outside of
the day-to-day film crew hierarchy.
Post Production Supervisor
The post-production supervisor is responsible for the post-production
process, during which they maintain clarity of the information and good
channels of communication between the producer, the editor supervising the sound
editor, and the production accountant.
Stunt coordinator
Where the film requires a stunt and involves the use of
stunt performers, the stunt coordinator will arrange the casting and performance
of the stunt, working closely with the director
Director
The Director provides the guiding creative vision for a
production. They are not necessarily the ultimate authority on a given project,
but they are responsible for shepherding it creatively through the entire
creative process meaning they exert great influence over film crew positions.
First Assistant Director
The 1st AD mandate is to simply assist the
director in achieving their vision. On the other hand, their day-to-day
responsibilities stretch far beyond the creative concerns of the director and
are crucial for keeping any production on its feet. The 1st AD is
responsible for crafting the shooting schedule, running the set, making sure
that all other film crew positions are functioning fine, and dealing with the thousands
of daily problems that arise on even the smoothest productions. Their minds are
both highly active in the present yet always calculating circumstances in the future
ahead. 1st Assistant Director is the ultimate problem solver among
all film crew positions but that doesn’t mean you should bring all your
problems directly to the AD. Instead, you should approach their second in
command.
Production Manager/Unit Production Manager
The production manager supervises the physical aspects of
the production including personnel, technology, budget, and scheduling. It is
the Production manager's responsibility to make sure the filming stays on
schedule and within its budget. The production manager often works under the
supervision of a line producer and directly supervises the production
coordinator.
Line Producer
If there are several sets of the same show running
concurrently the line producers for each given set. Typically, a line producer
manages the budget of a film production
Production Coordinator
The Production Coordinator is the information store of the
production responsible for organizing all the logistics from hiring crew,
renting equipment, and booking cast members. The production coordinator is an
integral part of film production.
Production Secretary
The production secretary provides administration assistance
in the production office to the production coordinator and production manager.
Production Accountant
Production accountants are responsible for managing finances
and maintaining financial records during film production. They work closely
with the [producer and the production office to manage the day-to-day
accounting office functions, and report on the project's financial progress
against the budgets (cost reporting).
Second Assistant Director
The second assistant director is the chief assistant of the
1st Ad and helps carry out those tasks delegated to the 1st
AD. the 2nd AD works closely with the production coordinator to
create daily call sheets that let crew h
Know the schedule and important details about the shoot day
Third Assistant Director
The second assistant director works on set with the ‘first’
and may liaise with the “second” to move casts from the unit base, organize
crowd scenes and supervise one or more production assistants.
Production Assistant/Production Runner
The production assistant or runner assists the 1st
AD with on-set operations. The production assistant also assists the production
office with general tasks.
Script Supervisor/Continuity
The script supervisor is also known as continuity. The
script supervisor keeps track of parts of the script that have been filmed and
makes notes of any deviations between what was filmed and what appeared in the
script through the document known as the continuity sheet. They make notes on
every shot, and keep track of props, blocking and other details to ensure
continuity from shot and scene to scene. They stay near the director for notes
that are also added to the continuity sheet. The document is heavily used by
the editor and director of the post-production stage.
SCRIPT DEPARTMENT
Screenwriter
Screenwriter is responsible for researching the story,
developing the narrative, writing the screenplay, and delivering it in the
required format to the producers. Most of them are always freelancers who
either pitch original ideas to producers in the hope that they are optioned or
sold. A screenwriter can also be commissioned by a producer to create a
screenplay from a concept, true story, or existing or literal work such as a novel
or short story.
Story Producer
The story producer has overall responsibility for the story
across episodes in reality. The story producer is responsible for creating a storyline
by editing/producing the show’s source footage. They may also be responsible
for writing the host’s dialogue.
Script Editor
Provides a critical overview of the screenwriting process,
using their analytical skills to help the screenwriter identify problems and
hereby help to strengthen and develop the screenplay.
Script Coordinator
The script coordinator is responsible for producing each
draft of the script and annotating it for ease of use for the production team.
LOCATION DEPARTMENT
Location Manager
The location manager is responsible for finding and securing
locations to be used for the productions and coordinating the logistics,
permits, and costs involved. They are also the face of the production of the
community
Location Assistant
The location Assistant assists the location manager and is
on set before, during, and after the filming process. General responsibilities
include arriving first at the location to allow the set dressers into the set,
maintaining the cleanliness of the location areas during filming, and fielding
complaints from neighbors.
Location Coordinator
The location coordinator works closely with the unit manager
to organize the arrival of the crew and transport. Both roles help set up unit
bases and make sure that everyone is parked correctly. The coordinator works
under the manager and helps lead the rest of the location's departments. One of
their jobs is to ensure everyone has directions to the location. They will do
this by placing location signs to help navigate people to the set. Another task
is to ensure safety on set. They will have helped complete risk assessments
and parole the location to ensure the crew follows safety guidelines. Any
damaged property must be reported and insurance claimed, as such it's always a good
idea to take plenty of photos before filming.
Skills And Tools That Are Helpful For The Locations Department
*Leadership
*Communication
*Photography
*Strong attention to detail
*Maps and navigation
*Driving license
*Artistic vision
CAMERA DEPARTMENT
Director Of Photography/Cinematographer
The director of photography is the head of the camera and
lighting department of the film. The D.O.P. makes decisions on the lighting and
framing of scenes in conjunction with the film’s director.
Camera Operator
The camera operator operates the camera under the direction
of the director of photography, or the film director, to capture the scene on
film. Depending on the camera format being used for filming (eg film or
digital) a director of photography may not operate the camera, but sometimes
those two roles are combined.
First Assistant Camera (focus puller)
The First Assistant camera is responsible for keeping the
camera in focus while it is shooting.
Second Assistant Camera (clapper loader)
The second assistant camera operates the clapperboard at the
beginning of each take and loads the raw film stock into the camera magazines
between takes, also oversees the log books that record when the film stock is
received, used and sent to the lab for processing.
Camera Production Assistant
Usually a trainee in the camera department. The camera production
assistant assists the crew with menial details while learning the trade of the
camera assistant, operator, or cinematographer.
Digital Imaging Technician (DIT)
In digital productions, the digital imaging technician is
responsible for the coordination of the internal workings of the digital
camera, under the direction of the D.O.P. The digital imaging technician will
make a few adjustments to the multitude of variables available in most
professional digital cameras to manipulate the resulting image.
Loader
The loader transfers the film from the manufacturer's
light-tight canisters to the camera magazines for attachment to the camera by
the 2nd Ac. After filming the loader then removes the film from the
magazines and places it back into the light-tight cans for transport to the
lab.
Data Wrangler
On digital productions. The data wrangler is responsible for
managing the transfer of data from the camera to a computer or a hard drive.
Steadicam Operator
The Steadicam operator is skilled at operating a Steadicam.
Motion Control Technician
This technician operates a motion control rig which is
essentially a ‘camera robot’ able to consistently repeat camera moves for
special effects use.
Video split/Assist operator
A video split is used by directors to watch a monitor during
each take. This is captured by special recorders fitted to film cameras next to
the eyepiece.
GRIP AND ELECTRICAL DEPARTMENT
Grip are trained lighting and rigging technicians. Their
main responsibility is to work closely with the electrical department to put in
the lighting setups required for a shot.
Key grip
The key grip is the chief grip on a [i]set
and is the head of the set operations department. The key grip work with the
director of photography to help set up the set and to achieve correct lighting
and blocking.
Best boy (Grip)
The best boy (grip) is the chief assistant to the key grip.
They are also responsible for organizing the grip truck throughout the day.
Gaffer
The gaffer is the head of the electrical department,
responsible for the design and execution of the lighting plan for production.
Sometimes the gaffer is credited, as the chief lighting technician.
Best boy (Electrical)
The best boy electrical is the chief assistant to the
gaffer.
Lighting Technician
The lighting technician is involved in setting up and
controlling lighting equipment.
ART DEPARTMENT
Production designer
The production designer is responsible for creating the
physical visual appearance of the film settings, costumes props, and characters'
makeup.
Art Director
The art director oversees the artists and craft people who
give form to the production design as it develops
Set designer
The set designer is the draftsman, often an architect who
realizes the structures of interior space called for by the production
designer.
Prop master
The prop master is in charge of finding and managing all the
props used in the film. Usually has several assistances.
Standby props
Work on set during the filming of a scene, also responsible
for overseeing the use of props and monitoring their continuity. They can
respond quickly to requests for moving props and fixtures and help position
actors crew and equipment
Props builder
Props builders are technicians skilled in construction i.e.
plastic casting, machining, and electronics.
Make-up artist
Make-up artists work with makeup, hair, prosthetics, and
special effects to create the characters look like anyone appearing on screen.
Their role is to manipulate an actor's on-screen appearance.
Hairdresser
The hairstylist is responsible for maintaining and styling
the hair of anyone appearing on screen. They work in conjunction with the
make-up artist.
WARDROBE DEPARTMENT
Costume Designer
The costume designer is responsible for all the clothing and
costumes won by the cast. They design and plan the construction of the garments
down to the fabric, colors, and sizes.
Costume Supervisor
The costume supervisor works closely with the designers to
supervise the creation of sourcing of garments, hiring support staff budget
paperwork, and department logistics.
Costume standby
The costume standby is present on set at all times to
monitor the quality and continuity of the actor's and actresses' costumes
before and during takes. They also assist the cast with dressing.
Art finisher
An art finisher may be employed during pre-production to
‘break down’ garments. This specialized job includes making new clothing appear
dirty, faded, and worn.
Buyer
On large productions, a buyer may be employed to source and
purchase fabrics and garments.
Cutter/Fitter
A costume technician who fits or tailors costumes, usually
on set. They can also be called tailors.
POST-PRODUCTION
Film Editor
The film editor is the offline editor for video production. The
film editor assembles the various shots into a coherent film working closely
with the director.
Assistant Editor
Assists the editor by collecting and organizing all the
elements needed for the edit, doing the first cut mostly does the first draft.
Online editor (for video production)
When the offline edit is complete online editor adds visual
effects, and titles and applies color correction. Also ensures that the program
meets the technical delivery specifications.
Colorist
Adjusts the color of the film to achieve greater consistency
Visual effects supervisor
The visual effects supervisor is in charge of the visual
effects department
Sound Editor
Sound Editor is responsible for assembling and editing all sound
effects in the soundtrack.
Music supervisor
Works with the composer, mixers, and editors to create and
integrate the film’s music. Negotiates licensing of the necessary rights for
all source music used in a film.
Composer
The composer is responsible for writing the musical score
for a film.
A Musical score is the original piece of music that is written and tailored
for a specific film.
Foley Artist
A foley artist creates and records many of the sound effects
of a film.
OTHER PRODUCTION CREW
Casting Director
Works closely with the director and producer to understand
requirements, suggests artists for each role, as well as arranging and
conducting interviews and auditions
Storyboard Artist
Visualizes stories using sketches on paper. Quick pencil
drawings and marker renderings are two of the most common traditional techniques
although nowadays flash, photoshop, and special storyboard software applications
are being used more often. Provides first aid covers and primary healthcare to
the cast and crew on film production. This includes ensuring that people are
looking after their health.
Caterers
Catering is provided by special companies to drive catering
trucks packed with food and a range of equipments including ovens, gas, and
water for each unit base for filming.
Unit nurse
High-budget films have a nurse on standby in case of
emergencies or fatalities to any cast or crew member
Unit publicist
Responsible for unit press and the publicity budget set by
producers. Work on a freelance basis and are hired only for the duration of
each shoot although may also be employed to handle distribution publicity in
the run-up to the film’s release.
Stills photographer
Stills photographers usually work on set recording scenes
from the film but they may also be required to set up photographs in the style
of the film in a studio environment
DISTRIBUTION AND MARKETING
Producer
The producer identifies and specifies the products high-level
requirements or purpose ensuring that its business objective and creative vision
are understood and maintained by everyone involved in the project. This is a
senior client-facing role that requires expertise in business management,
content, design, and technical disciplines.
Designer
Creates the ‘look and feel’ of an interactive media product.
Produces visuals of user interfaces, using software such as Adobe Photoshop or Illustrator.
They usually follow a design brief that may be given as verbal instructions,
written specifications, or wire-frame diagrams.
Developer
Developers use authoring tools, markup language, and
scripting languages to create the product. Sometimes this will be according to
designs created by someone also such as a designer. Other times the developer
may design the product as well.
Producer Assistant
Contributors to the production of an interactive media
product by helping other members of the team usually work with the designer and
developer or with a web edit or are often taken on as interns.
Studio Manager
Ensuring the smooth running of an interactive media studio,
managing the team, overseeing the work, and licensing with other departments
within the company may also set up the studio and recruit staff.
Project Manager
Plans schedules and coordinates interactive media development
projects, ensuring they run smoothly on the mechanics of running the project
rather than creative requirements.
Account Manager
Develops maintains and improves relationships with existing
clients, ensuring their needs are met and obtaining repeat business from them.
New Business Developer
Generates business for the interactive organization agency.
Contract Strategist
Scopes and plans interactive media product content and determines
its overall style. What to say, how to say it effectively when, and where to
say it.
Information Architect
Interprets high-level requirements to design the overall
user experience of an interactive media product.
Web Editor
Plans and oversees the ongoing management of a website and
the publications of context to it. This may involve writing copy from scratch
or coordinating and editing contributors from others.
SEO Specialist (Search engine optimization)
Optimizes a website or pages to make them as possible to
internet search engines to maximize traffic to them.
Programmer
Produces computer software to give a product its
functionality. Similar to the developer role but is usually more purely
technical and focuses on high-level programming rather than scripting although they
often overlap. It does not usually involve visual or interface design but may
include technical design, such as devising systems or databases.
Usability Specialist
Ensures an interactive media product meets the needs of its
intended audiences through analysis, evaluation, and testing of the user's
experience. This is very much a research-led role, but it may sometimes also
require technical skills
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