Careers Handbook

Here we have a visual example for each term:

Documentary pre-production paperwork

Job Roles Booklet

Job roles booklet

Job title - Runner (TV production), consists of:

·         Working in the office, around the set and on location

·         Dealing with varied office admin tasks

·         Dealing with a range jobs on locations

In the Production Office duties might include answering telephones, filing paperwork and data entry. Or arranging lunches, dinners, and transportation reservations, photocopying, general office administration, and distributing production paperwork.

On set, Runners might have to act as a courier and help to keep the set clean and tidy. They also distribute call sheets, health and safety notices, and other paperwork. On location shoots, Production Runners may also be needed to help co-ordinate the extras, and to perform crowd control duties

What you will need - To do this role, you will need to:

·         Be flexible and well organised

·         Be able to think on your feet

·         Have good communication skills

·         Be able to take orders

·         Be tactful and diplomatic

·         Be punctual

·         Be enthusiastic

·         Be able to work calmly and effectively under pressure

·         Have good IT skills

·         Have good organisational and administrative skills

·         Be able to work without supervision

·         Be versatile and a willing to learn

·         Be aware of relevant health and safety laws and procedures

Will I need a qualification?

You don’t need a specific qualification, but a good education is an advantage. You will also need a full, clean EU driving licence.

Further details regarding the job, work hours etc -

Runners are usually employed on a freelance basis and their hours are long and irregular. Try and start out by getting some experience in film, drama or broadcasting. It can be in amateur dramatics, student radio or film making, shorts or community media. This will put you in a better position to apply for work as a Production Runner, as there is a lot of competition for jobs despite the low pay.

Job title - Researcher (TV production), consists of:

·         Originating or developing programme ideas, drawing on knowledge and understanding of industry requirements, and presenting findings to decision makers

·         Checking facts and briefing writers who write scripts for on-screen presenters

TV Researchers originate or develop programme ideas, drawing on their knowledge and understanding of industry requirements, and present their findings to decision makers. They are also fact checkers and brief writers who write scripts for on-screen presenters. They work across all genres of television production. They must understand, and work within, relevant legislation and regulations.

They may be briefed by Producers or other decision makers about programme ideas and then carry out further development. Alternatively, they may produce original programme ideas for consideration by Producers, broadcasters, production companies, or other decision makers. They identify relevant data, contributors, locations or archive material, collating and assessing information from various sources, and ensuring that legal, compliance and copyright requirements are met.

They carry out preliminary telephone and/or face-to-face interviews to assess contributors' potential suitability and availability for inclusion in each programme according to its genre and format. During production, they arrange transport for contributors. They greet them, brief them before recording commences and escort them from the studio or location once shooting is completed. They may also be required to identify location requirements from scripts or programme outlines, and assess locations for suitability and cost. They identify and select suitable sources for archive footage, still pictures or audio materials. Researchers may also contribute to the development of scripts by writing drafts or briefing others.

What you will need - To do this role, you will need to:

·         be able to establish a rapport quickly with production personnel and potential contributors

·         maintain up-to-date contact lists and be able to access relevant information from various sources

·         source and suggest suitable contributors, demonstrating how their input fits into each production

·         be able to explain tactfully and diplomatically if contributors are not suitable

·         be aware of the legal and ethical considerations surrounding the release of information to the press and public, especially when sensitive or contentious issues are involved

·         be responsible for handling floats and petty cash, e.g. for taxis for contributors during production

·         be able to keep accurate records of all income and expenditure

·         have excellent verbal and written communication skills

·         have excellent presentation skills

·         possess advanced analytical skills

·         pay precise attention to detail and have a methodical approach to work

·         be able to conceptualise ideas and think visually

·         show initiative and possess strong problem-solving skills

·         have advanced IT skills

·         show diplomacy and sensitivity when working with writers, producers, actors, presenters, other contributors and crew members

·         have current knowledge of the relevant legislation, regulations, and associated procedures, including copyright, data protection, public liability, etc. and how to comply with regulatory requirements

·         have knowledge of the requirements of the relevant health and safety legislation and procedures

Will I need a qualification?

You won’t need a specific qualification to become a TV Researcher. However, a degree in a media-related, drama or specialist subject may give you a good grounding.

Further details regarding the job, work hours etc -

Hours are likely to be high for a researcher, this is due to them constantly having to collect new information (especially if it is a daily TV show). To become a researcher you could start out as a Runner or Production Assistant, or gain a role as a Researcher because you have specialist qualifications or knowledge about a particular programme's content. You could also start out as a non-media researcher, journalist or writer and become a TV researcher.

Job title - Director (Film Production), consists of:

·         Being the driving creative force in a film's production - visualising and defining the style and structure of the film, then bringing it to life

·         Carrying out duties such as casting, script editing, shot composition, shot selection and editing

·         Acting as the crucial link between the production, technical and creative teams

Directors are responsible for creatively translating the film's written script into actual images and sounds on the screen. They are ultimately responsible for a film's artistic and commercial success or failure.

Directors may write the film's script or commission it to be written, or they may be hired after an early draft of the script is complete. They must then develop a vision for the finished film and work out how to achieve it. During pre-production, Directors make crucial decisions, such as selecting the right cast, crew and locations for the film. They then direct rehearsals and the performances of the actors once the film is in production. They also manage the technical aspects of filming including the camera, sound, lighting, design and special effects departments.

During post production, Directors work closely with Editors through the many technical processes of editing, to reach the final cut or version of the film. At all stages, Directors are responsible for motivating the team to produce the best possible results. Directors must also always be aware of the constraints of the film's budget and schedule and manage the expectations of the film's financiers.

What you will need - To do this role, you will need to:

·         have exceptional artistic vision and creative skills

·         have unerring commitment

·         have a deep passion for filmmaking

·         be a strong and confident leader

·         make decisions

·         delegate and collaborate with others

·         have excellent communication and interpersonal skills

·         inspire and motivate the team

·         have an extensive understanding of the entire filmmaking process, from both technical and creative points of view

·         work intensively for long hours

·         pay attention to detail

·         remain calm and think clearly under great pressure

·         have great self-belief

·         be determined to succeed

Will I need a qualification?

You don’t need a formal qualification to become a Director. There are numerous training courses and reference books on directing and studying the art and craft of directing is important.

Further details regarding the job, work hours etc -

Directors are basically the brain behind the movie, they are expected to put it a lot of hours. You can expect to start your career by getting work experience as a Runner on a film set or in a production office before working your way up through entry-level positions over many years. Observing successful Directors at work, whilst immersing yourself in the practical process of filmmaking is a vital first step on this fiercely competitive and highly challenging career path.

Job title – Producer (Film Production) -

·         Turning story ideas into profitable films

·         Putting together a creative and talented cast and crew

·         Being responsible for all aspects of a film's production

Producers have overall control on every aspect of a film's production. They bring together and approve the whole production team. Their key responsibility is to create an environment where the talents of the cast and crew can flourish. Producers are accountable for the success of the finished film. They steer the film from beginning to completion and beyond.

The Producer is often the first person to get involved in a project. Or they may be the agent-style Producer who focuses on the deal. The many responsibilities of the Producer span all four phases of production. In the Development stage, Producers are often responsible for coming up with the idea for a production, or selecting a screenplay. Producers secure the rights, choose the screenwriter and story editing team. They raise the development financing and supervise the development process.

In pre-production, Producers bring together the key members of the creative team. This includes the Director, Cinematographer and Production Designer and key cast members. They help the Executive Producers to raise money for the production. Once the initial finance is in place, they select other key production office personnel and Heads of Departments. Producers also approve locations, studio hire, the final shooting script, production schedule and budget. More time and money spent in pre-production can reduce time and money wasting when the production gets underway.

Once the film is in production, Producers are responsible for the day-to-day smooth operation of the team. Producers are also in constant communication and consultation with the Director and other key creatives, on and off set. Producers approve all script changes and cost reports. They are the first point of contact for all production partners, investors and distributors.

During post production, Producers are expected to liaise with the Director and post production department. The Producer will deal with the finance and distribution companies in planning the marketing and distribution of the finished film. It is rare to find one Producer who has the expertise and vision to exercise personal decision-making authority across all four phases of production, but

The Producer is usually supported by a hand-picked production office team. Many of the key people will have worked with the Producer on several film projects. Producers have a legal responsibility, under the Health and Safety at Work Act 1974, to prepare health and safety procedures for the workplace. The Producer's ultimate responsibility is to the production company and the Executive Producers.

What you will need - To do this role, you will need to:

·         Have experience of working in the film industry

·         Have a good business sense

·         Have a good understanding of finance

·         Have good creative vision

·         Be self-motivated

·         Be good at negotiating

·         Be good at motivating people

·         Be good at problem-solving

·         Understand the creative processes of filmmaking

·         Be able to secure finance for the production

·         Be able to prepare and control the production budget

·         Have excellent communication skills

·         Be able to work well under pressure and motivate the production team

·         Ensure compliance with regulations and codes of practice

·         Understand the relevant health and safety laws and procedures

Will I need a qualification?

You don’t need a specific qualification to become a Film Producer.

Further details regarding the job, work hours etc -

Top filmmakers work with the same people over and over again. To get started in the Production Office it is worth getting experience as a Production Assistant or Runner. If you can prove that you are reliable, trustworthy and enthusiastic you may progress.

Job title - Camera Operator (TV Production), consists of:

·         Ensuring that cameras and associated equipment are rigged and ready for the required shots to be taken

Camera Operators ensure that cameras and associated equipment are rigged and ready for the required set-up. They must be able to multi-task, and to watch, listen and think on their feet while carrying out complex technical tasks. They supervise Assistants in moving the camera and carry out simple camera fault diagnosis. They may work closely with performers, giving them constructive advice in order to achieve the required composition.

Camera Operator is a senior role within camera departments, but precise responsibilities vary greatly depending on the type of production. They operate one of several cameras capturing images at the same time (multi-camera shoots), which involves receiving camera directions (usually over a headset) from the Director, who is based in a ‘gallery’ (production area) away from the location or set. These directions will be about where to position the camera, and how to frame shots and move the camera during the recording. Camera Operators must be able to translate these instructions into carefully framed and composed shots. On most productions, a team of Camera Operators is led by a Camera Supervisor or Senior Camera Person. This senior role is responsible for overseeing the work of the Camera Operators and any Camera Assistants working on the studio floor or Outside Broadcast (OB) location. Programmes shot by multiple cameras are usually broadcast live, or recorded ‘as live’, and a Camera Operator’s work can be very intensive, stressful and exhilarating.

What you will need - To do this role, you will need to:

·         have good colour vision, and excellent hand-to-eye co-ordination

·         have a strong affinity with technology, knowledge of the relevant electronics and an in-depth knowledge of the principles of camera work

·         have good communication skills and show diplomacy and sensitivity when working with artists, production staff and crew

·         be able to take direction and work as part of a team, particularly on multi-camera shoots

·         be able to carry out instructions with great accuracy and attention to detail

·         be able to frame and compose shots and perform camera moves with precision and speed

·         have good IT skills

·         possess physical stamina for working long hours and moving heavy equipment

·         understand the requirements of the relevant Health and Safety legislation and procedures

Will I need a qualification?

You do not need a specific qualification to work in this role. Instead, you would usually learn the practical skills required through hands-on experience on the job. That said, continuing professional development is vital, especially as camera technology changes rapidly. Basic stills photography, which develops visual and composition skills, also provides a useful starting point in training for this role.

Further details regarding the job, work hours etc -

Compared to Camera Operators within the film industry, TV Camera Operators do not have the highest amount of hours In a TV production as they are only needed when footage needs to be filmed, however they still do a lot of hours nonetheless.  Intensive industry experience is the best route into this role, having gained grounding in the basic camera skills and knowledge required. You could begin your career as a Camera Assistant, and then work your way up through the ranks of the camera department over several years.

Job title - Production manager (TV Production), consists of:

·         Being responsible for all the organisational aspects of production scheduling and budgeting

·         Ensuring that productions run smoothly, meet deadlines, and stay within budgets

Production Managers are responsible for all the organisational aspects of production scheduling and budgeting. They work across all genres in television production including documentaries, current affairs, light entertainment or children's programmes, situation comedies, soaps or serial dramas, or one off dramas.

They assist the Producer to interpret and realise the Director’s vision, financially and logistically. They prepare production schedules or script breakdowns to confirm that sufficient time has been allocated for all aspects of the production process, and to check the Producer’s budget and schedule.  On drama productions they use special software, such as Movie Magic, to provide logistical breakdowns of scripts, detailing all aspects of production requirements, such as: how many and which actors are needed on which days; what locations are required each day; and crewing requirements.

The Production Manager is the key person in the production department. They report directly to Producers. They work closely with all other heads of department to ensure that productions run smoothly, meet deadlines, and stay within budgets. Throughout shooting, they monitor schedules and budgets, and prepare daily report sheets for Producers, detailing all aspects of each day's shoot.

During pre-production and shooting, they deal with any unexpected circumstances and prepare workable alternative plans. They oversee all aspects of the day-to-day running of shoots, from contract preparation to all Health and Safety requirements, and work closely with members of all other production departments, Actors, and other contributors. On drama productions, they oversee the 1st Assistant Director’s (1st ADs) preparation of daily call sheets for actors and crew members. They must ensure that all cast and crew members' conditions of work are in compliance with the relevant local agreements and regulations.

What you will need - To do this role, you will need to:

·         understand the technical processes involved in television production, including camera, lighting, sound and editing

·         know how to ensure that all necessary licences and clearances have been obtained for a production

·         have highly developed communication skills

·         have strong problem-solving skills

·         be able to work effectively, and with diplomacy and sensitivity, with all members of the production team, and with Actors, other contributors, and members of the public

·         have advanced analytical skills

·         have strong budgeting and financial skills

·         pay precise attention to detail and have a methodical approach to work

·         have excellent organisational skills

·         be able to conceptualise ideas

·         have strong IT skills, and knowledge of the relevant computer packages

·         understand how to comply with regulations relating to liability and indemnity when shooting at different locations

·         have up-to-date working knowledge of relevant UK union and/or broadcaster regulations and agreements, e.g. Pact/Equity, Pact/Musicians Union, Pact/BECTU

·         have up-to-date knowledge of the legal requirements regarding working hours and the duty of care towards personnel

·         know how to access information about, and comply with, corresponding regulations and agreements in other countries

·         possess current knowledge of relevant legislation, regulations, and associated procedures, including copyright, data protection, public liability, etc. and how to comply with regulatory requirements

·         have knowledge of the requirements of the relevant health and safety legislation and procedures

Will I need a qualification?

You will need to have wide experience in and knowledge of the production process. It will stand you in good stead to complete specialist courses in production management, and in relevant software, e.g. Movie Magic. It will be essential for you to have a current Health & Safety and first aid qualification.

Further details regarding the job, work hours etc -

A production manager’s role consists of a lot of hours. To become a Production Manager in TV, you will usually need to be an experienced member of a production team. You could start out as a 3rd Assistant Director, to 2nd Assistant Director to 1st Assistant Director. Or you could move from being an Assistant Floor Manager to a Floor Manager to a Location Manager. Or you could progress from having been a Script Supervisor, a Production Assistant or a Production Accountant. You could also transfer to this role from having been a non-media accountant with suitable training.

Job title – Sound Assistant (TV Production), consists of:

·         Helping record the best quality sound in studios or on locations, working closely with Sound Supervisors and Boom Operators

      What you will need - To do this role, you will need to:

• TV Sound Assistants work closely with Sound Supervisors and Boom Operators to help record the best quality sound in studios or on locations.
• Jobs in TV sound generally fall into two areas: production sound and post-production sound. TV Sound Assistants work in production sound. They are excellently placed to learn about all aspects of TV sound, and to acquire hands-on experience.
• TV Sound Assistants must be able to carry out a variety of tasks, including assembling and maintaining sound recording equipment, setting up communication and public address systems, and positioning microphones. They work under the supervision of the Sound Supervisor.
• They may also play in music or operate sound effects as necessary, under the direction of the Director and Sound Supervisor. They ensure that any cables are kept clear of moving equipment, fill in accurate and clear sound report sheets, store materials, report any technical faults they may find, and undertake basic technical maintenance tasks as required.
• They need to have a good knowledge of the script, as they may be asked to deputise for the Sound Recordist, e.g. in second camera situations, or on some larger productions they may be expected to act as a second Boom Operator

Further details regarding the job, work hours etc -

You won’t need a qualification to be a TV Sound Assistant. However it is vital to be able to show a strong interest in sound and an understanding of its physical properties. Courses are available throughout the UK, from HND to degree level in sound technology, audio engineering, acoustics and music recording. 
Job title - Camera Assistant  (TV Production), consists of: 
Offering general support to the Camera Operator in the Studio/Outside Broadcast (OB) camera department, carrying out simple tasks such as collecting equipment from stores and assisting with rigging (setting up) cameras and equipment.

They help to move cameras, bash (handle and store) cables and swing camera cranes. They may also be offered opportunities, under supervision, to operate cameras for simple shots. Programmes shot by multiple cameras are usually broadcast live or recorded 'as live', and a Camera Assistants work can be intensive, stressful and exhilarating.

By supporting senior members of the camera department, Camera Assistants undergo an important practical apprenticeship. Trainees provide general support to the camera department, while more senior Assistants carry out precise and complex technical tasks such as swinging camera cranes. 

Hours may be long (12-14 hours a day) and the work can be physically exhausting. Some travel may be involved, involving periods spent away from base, which can be challenging to home and family life.
What you will need - To do this role, you will need to:

• have good colour vision, and good hand-to-eye co-ordination
• have a working knowledge of how the relevant camera equipment works 
• have good communication skills and show diplomacy and sensitivity when working with artists, production staff and crew
• be able to take direction and work as part of a team
• be able to carry out instructions with great accuracy and attention to detail
• be able to work under pressure and in stressful situations
• be able to frame and compose shots after you’ve gained some experience
• have good IT skills
• possess physical stamina for working long hours and moving heavy equipment
• understand the requirements of the relevant health and safety legislation and procedures

Further details regarding the job, work hours etc -

You won’t need a specific qualification to become a Camera Assistant. That said, it’ll benefit you to have a good grounding in mathematics and physics, and a thorough understanding of the principles of stills photography. Most Camera Assistants acquire their practical skills through hands-on experience on the job.

Job title - Director of Photography  (TV Production), consists of: 

• Creating the visual identity, or look, of the film
• Working with the Director, camera crew and lighting department to achieve this
• Managing all aspects of filming: from ordering and overseeing equipment to recces to reviewing footage

Directors of Photography (DoPs) are key Heads of Department on film productions and theirs is one of the major creative roles. They provide a film with its unique visual identity, or look. DoPs must discover the photographic heart of a screenplay, using a variety of source material including stills photography, painting, other films, etc. They create the desired look using lighting, framing, camera movement, etc. DoPs collaborate closely with the camera crew (Camera Operator, 1st and 2nd Assistant Camera, Camera Trainee and Grips).

During filming, DoPs also work closely with the Gaffer (who runs the lighting team), the Production Designer, Costume Designer, and the Hair and Make-up Department. After reading the screenplay, DoPs meet with the Director to discuss the visual style of the film. They conduct research and preparation including carrying out technical recces of locations. They prepare a list of all required camera equipment, including lights, film stock, camera, cranes and all accessories etc., for the production office to order. During preparation DoPs also test special lenses, filters or film stocks, checking that the results fit with the Director's vision for the film.

On each day of principal photography, DoPs and their camera crews arrive early on set to prepare the equipment. During rehearsals, the Director and DoP block (decide the exact movements of both actors and camera) the shots as the actors walk through their actions, discussing any special camera moves or lighting requirements with the Camera Operator, Gaffer and Grip.

What you will need - To do this role, you will need to:

• have good technical knowledge of photo-chemical and digital processes
• know all about camera equipment
• have in-depth knowledge of lighting techniques and how to achieve them
• have considerable industry experience
• be flexible in order to adapt ideas instantly
• be able to take decisions quickly
• know about photography, painting and the moving image
• have artistic vision
• be creative
• pay precise attention to detail
• have good colour vision
• be able to give and accept direction
• have excellent communication skills
• be diplomatic and tactful when working with cast and crew
• know about health and safety legislation and procedures

Further details regarding the job, work hours etc -
You could take a degree in stills photography to gain a good, all-round understanding of composition and light. However, a drama, art or a film/media studies degree all provide a good grounding. Although you do not need to have an electrical qualification, you will need to understand the functions of a variety of lighting equipment and to have thorough knowledge of cameras, lenses and film stocks.

Sources
All of the above information I have collected from CreativeSkillset; an organisation which holds a wide amount of information regarding jobs within the media. Within this task however, we only look at roles within television and film. The website states that the organisation empowers the creative industries to develop skills and talent.

http://creativeskillset.org/