Film crew roles who does what job on a film set?

If you run an individual production company or work with a group of co-workers, you need to know what people actually perform on a film crew. In addition to the timeframe and budget, the type of project you're working on will dictate the number of crew members that you require. In a small documentary like this one, you'll want the production team not to exceed the size you would need for large commercial productions.

The glossary lists the most important crew members in any video shoot. Be aware how small your group, the more hats each person will wear.

Learn more about them here.

 Executive Producer

Executive Producers are the money people. They've lined up the cash to finance the project. Usually, the number of executives involved is directly linked to how much cash is backed by the film. The more money, the more executives. With a smaller budget, you may just require one. Sometimes brands or clients will provide the funding on projects and also act as a substitute for executive producers.

 Director

The Director is in charge of, well, all things. From overseeing the creative aspects in the film, from instructing the actors, to deciding the soundtrack The Director is the primary person and the visionary that is bringing this project to life.

 Producers

Producers are the key director at any stage of filmmaking, so, there countless types of producers. There are financial producers, marketing producers, creating producers, and and on and on. Decide the most essential execution points of your project and begin filling the roles. On a small set just two or three Producers can get the job done.

 Production Assistant (PA)

The Production Assistant is perhaps the most crucial position on the crew since they can aid in a multitude of ways -- from sharing the call sheet to loading in props, to making that ever-important coffee run.

 Line Producer

The Line Producer manages the budget of the movie and also manages day-to-day requirements on the film. They ensure that the film is running and fully funded. They are among the most important people to have on your team.

 Production Manager (PM)

The Production Manager oversees daily production issues, including budget, scheduling, and hiring. The Production Manager is usually accountable to the Line Producer, who supervises the production coordinator.

 Production Coordinator

The Production Coordinator is in charge of the crew and cast logistical aspects. One of their main responsibilities is ensuring well as the punctual delivery and setting-up of gear and equipment.

1st Assistant Director (AD)

The 1st AD is just what it sounds like: an assistant to the director. The AD is the person who creates the shooting schedule, arranges the crew and assures that the film comes together in time.

 2nd AD

The 2nd AD helps the 1st AD oversee the setting. They handle and distribute critical documents like updated scripts and call sheets. On a large-scale production, the use of a 3rd AD is sometimes necessary.

 Script Supervisor

The Script Supervisor is in charge of the footage shot as well as the changes added on the script. In addition to making notes of every scene and camera angle, they also keep an eye on lighting, props blocking, as well as costumes in order to guarantee the script's integrity (as well as continuity in the film).

Director of Photography (DP)

The DP works closely with the Director to decide the look of the film. In smaller films it is possible that the DP can serve as the Camera Operator. It's the DP who, under the direction of the Director, takes the executive decisions regarding lighting and framing.

 Location Manager

Your location manager has the responsibility of finding sites for your production and also obtaining the necessary permits. On set, they will also be the representative for the crew in case local authorities inquire about your film's permitting.

 Camera Operator

A camera operator shoots under the guidance of the DP or director.

 1st Assistant Camera

Your first Assistant Camera will often be the focus puller making sure that every image is in perfect focus. On smaller productions, you'll need a DP as well as the Camera Operator can do this work.

 2nd Assistant Camera

The second Assistant Camera (second assistant camera) is the film's more logistical side of filming. The camera's assistants record all details of the shot on the slate and holds it in front of the camera in every shot. That's right: A And Action!

 Production Sound Mixer

The production sound mixer is responsible for making sure the sound is properly recorded and then mixed at the appropriate time on set. The production sound mixer additionally selects microphones, runs sound recording devices, and sometimes mixes audio signals.

 Boom Operator

Your Boom Operator is the person who holds the boom microphone and is in charge of mic placement and movement while the filming. They're the ones who make sure the mic doesn't show on the camera. On smaller sets it's the Production Sound Mixer might do the job.

 Key Grip

Key Grip handles all things equipment. They are closely associated in conjunction with DP and oversee camera cranes, dollies, lights, platforms, and all on-set equipment. In case you're wondering what a "Best Boy' is, they are the chief aid to the primary gripper or gaffer.

 Gaffer or Chief Lighting Technician

The Gaffer is the one who designs and implements the lighting plan on set. Similar to the Key Grip, they too collaborate closely in conjunction with the DP.

 Special Effects Supervisor

The Special Effects Supervisor is charged in executing the visual effects on your production. On set they'll run point all technical and creative issues related to your film's effects.

 Music Supervisor

The Music Supervisor works in tandem with the Director to decide on the music that will be used to accompany the film. They are in charge of sourcing composers, appropriate music for different scenes and they will handle any music licensing.

 Art Director

Art Directors are an incredibly common phrase in all creative industries However, in film production they play a particular control role over the entire course of the project. The Art Director's role is to determine the general look and feel of the production design as well as and overall design of the film.

 Production Designer

The Production Designer is in close contact with the DP and Director to help design the aesthetics of the movie, which includes every prop, set and costumes, as well as makeup and so on.

 Props Master and Stylist

The Props Master in your film is in charge of procuring, shipping, and archiving every prop that appears on screen. They will often work alongside Props Stylist to make sure the props look amazing on the camera. On a smaller crew The stylist and the director role may be handled by a single person.

 Cosmetic Artist

The Make-up Artist has various responsibilities based upon the kind of film. If it's a simple documentary or a realistic one, they apply appropriate makeup so the actors appear appropriate to play their role. If you're shooting a film involving werewolves or woodland fairies, there may be a need for a couple of makeup artists in the set.

 Hairdresser

Hairdressers on set style all the actors' hair in a time-appropriate way, and make sure it's in line with the setting and location. While filming it is their job to style the actors' hair and ensure that everyone's hair stays looking sharp and fresh, even during a long day of filming.

 Costume Designer

The Costume Designer designs stunning costumes that reflect the character and set. Depending on their complexity, you may also want the help of a seamstress for some of these ideas.