Film crew positions Who is in charge of what the set of a film?

It doesn't matter if you're only a single-person production firm or have a team of co-workers, you need to be aware of what individuals work on film crews. Aside from your film's timeframe and budget, the type of project you're working on will dictate how big of a crew you need. In a small documentary, for instance, you'd prefer the team for production to be smaller than large commercial productions.

The glossary lists the most important people on any crew shoot. Keep in mind how small your team will be, the more hats every person will wear.

Get to know them below.

 Executive Producer

Executive Producers are the cash people. They've lined up the cash to finance the project. Usually, the number of executives involved is directly related to how much money is backing the film. More money means more executives. Lower budget, you might just require one. In some cases, clients or brands help fund projects and also act as a substitute for executive producers.

 Director

The Director is responsible of, well, everything. From overseeing all creative elements of the movie to training the actors and deciding the score The Director is the point-person and visionary that is bringing this project to life.

 Producers

Producers are the primary director at any stage of filmmaking, which is why there countless types of producers. They include financial producers, creating producers, marketing producers, and endlessly. Decide the most essential elements of the project's execution and begin filling the roles. In a smaller set, one or two Producers will be able to finish the work.

 Production Assistant (PA)

Production Assistants may be the most crucial position on the crew since they can assist in a variety different ways, from sharing the call sheet to loading in props and making that crucial coffee run.

 Line Producer

The Line Producer manages the film's budget and day-to-day demands on film. They make sure the vessel is operating and funded, and are one of the most essential people you have on your team.

 Production Manager (PM)

The Production Manager is responsible for daily production decisions, like budget, scheduling, and the staffing. The Production Manager is usually accountable to the Line Producer. They also supervise the coordinator of production.

 Production Coordinator

The Production Coordinator is in charge of the cast and crew logistics. One of their main responsibilities is to make sure that they are able to provide prompt delivery and setup of equipment and gear.

1st Assistant Director (AD)

The 1st AD is just what is sounded like as an assistant to the director. This person prepares the shooting schedule, arranges the crew and assures that the film runs according to the schedule.

 2nd AD

2nd AD 2nd AD helps the 1st AD to supervise the set. They handle and distribute critical documents such as updated scripts or calls sheets. For large-scale productions a 3rd AD is sometimes necessary.

 Script Supervisor

The Script Supervisor tracks the footage shot as well as the changes made in the script. Along with taking notes of every scene as well as camera angles, they also keep track of props, lighting blocking, as well as costumes to ensure the script's authenticity (as as ensuring continuity within the film).

Director of Photography (DP)

The DP works closely with the Director to determine the look of the film. For smaller projects, the DP could also serve as the Camera Operator. It's the DP who, under the direction of the Director, takes decisions on the lighting, framing and even.

 Location Manager

The Location Manager is responsible for the job of securing places for filming, in addition to obtaining appropriate permits. On set, they will serve as the spokesperson for the cast if local officials inquire about your film's permitting.

 Camera Operator

A camera operator shoots with the direction of a Director or DP.

 1st Assistant Camera

Your first Assistant Camera usually is the one who pulls focus to ensure that each image is perfectly focused. For smaller productions, you'll need a DP as well as the Camera Operator could handle this job.

 2nd Camera Assistant

The second Assistant Camera (second assistant camera) is an aspect of film that is more logistics-related of shooting. They write all of the details of the shot on the slate, and then place the slate in the front of the camera prior to each shot. You know: A and action!

 Production Sound Mixer

The production sound mixer makes certain that sound signals are properly recorded and mastered on the an appropriate basis. The production sound mixer also selects mics, operates audio recording equipment as well as mixes signals.

 Boom Operator

The Boom Operator is the person who holds the boom microphone and is responsible for mic position and motion when the filming. They're also the ones responsible for making sure that the microphone doesn't show on the camera. For smaller set sizes it's the Production Sound Mixer might do the same job.

 Key Grip

Key Grip handles all things gear. They work closely in conjunction with DP and oversee camera cranes, dollies platforms, lights and any other equipment used on set. If you're unsure of what a "Best Boy can do it is, they're the main support to the main grip or the gaffer.

 Gaffer, Chief Lighting Technician

Your Gaffer designs and executes the lighting plan on set. Like the Key Grip the Gaffers also collaborate closely together with the DP.

 Special Effects Supervisor

The Supervisor for Special Effects is tasked with the execution of all visual effects in your film. When filming, they'll be able to run points any creative and technical issues related to your film's effects.

 Music Supervisor

The Music Supervisor is in tandem with the Director to select what music will be used to accompany the film. They are in charge of sourcing composers, appropriate music for different scenes as well as handling any music licensing.

 Art Director

Art Directors are a common term in any creative industry, but on film they fill a specific control role over the entire course of the production. The Art Director's role is to help determine how the film will look overall production design as well as the overall style of the film.

 Production Designer

A Production Designer works closely with the DP as well as the Director to create the visual appearance of the film, including all sets, props clothing, makeup, etc.

 Stylist, Props Master and Props

The Props Master in your film is in charge of sourcing, delivering, and archiving all the props that appear in the film. They will often work alongside Props stylists to ensure that the look is flawless on the camera. On a smaller crew that includes stylists and a master role can be filled by one person.

 Painter

The Make-up Artist has a range of responsibilities depending on the genre of video. For a straightforward commercial or realistic film, they apply appropriate makeup so the actors appear appropriate to play their role. If you're filming a movie that features werewolves or woodland fairies, it's possible that you'll need makeup artists in the film.

 Hairdresser

Hairdressers on set style all the hair of the actors according to the appropriate time, and ensure that it's on par with the location of the film and its setting. Throughout the production the hairdressers will apply a touch-up to the actors' hair and ensure that everyone's hair stays looking sharp and fresh following a day of shooting.

 Costume Designer

The Costume Designer designs stunning costumes that reflect the character and set. Based on the complexity of their designs it is possible that you will need a Seamstress to execute the concepts.