Industry Jobs | Dialogue Coach

As one of the premier studio production companies in New York, Broadway Stages works to meet the growing needs of the film and TV industry while also focusing on the needs of our community. We provide the industry with a soundstage or location where they shoot their scenes, but they also need a skilled and experienced workforce. In this series, we look at the various jobs that make a production come to life. We hope it provides insight and encourages you to consider a career in the film and TV industry. This week, we look at the role of dialogue coach.

What Does a Dialogue Coach Do?

As we post about the many film and TV roles in this industry jobs series, it is easy to see how each role contributes to creating the diverse worlds that help tell stories on screen. Key to telling these stories are the convincing performances by talented actors. Actors are often challenged to portray characters with a variety of accents or speech patterns. This week, we look at the industry role that helps actors learn, practice, and ultimately present convincing performances -- the dialogue (or dialect) coach. Read on for an overview of this important role.

A dialogue coach can help actors convey many facets of a character. According to the Nevada Film Office, “Dialect coaches help actors hone in on their voice and speech control to help create the design of their character’s speaking patterns in a way that effectively communicates the character’s personality traits, upbringing, education, work experience, and cultural travels.” Dialogue coaches can be involved in various stages of production. In pre-production, this might include conducting research; sitting in on auditions to help select actors; preparing actors for auditions; and, once actors get roles, helping them prepare for their performances. During the filming stage, the dialogue coach might be on set. During post-production, the dialogue coach might assist as an actor’s dialogue is added after principal filming. Read more about the role in this overview at Beverly Boy, and watch this “CBS Sunday Morning” video for a look at some examples of actors who have been trained by dialogue coaches in some popular films.  

How Do I Become a Dialogue Coach?

There isn’t a specific path that dialogue coaches must take, as they come from various backgrounds. For example, they might have formal linguistics training or acting experience. However, regardless of their backgrounds, good dialogue coaches should possess certain skills to effectively help their students. According to this Backstage piece, desired skills for this role are the ability to continually learn; a knowledge of vocal and respiratory anatomy and phonetics; an understanding of acting; and an ability to effectively work with each student. Read about Dialect Coach Jessica Drake’s background and experience in this Film Independent article. Drake has worked with stars such as Tom Hanks in “Forrest Gump” (to portray an Alabama accent) and Andrew Lincoln in “The Walking Dead” (to portray a Georgia accent), as well as working on projects including “Yellowstone” and “Bohemian Rhapsody.”

Learn about film and TV industry jobs, training, and more in the Broadway Stages’ Industry Resource Guide. Our guide provides information about industry-focused job posting sites; links to general recruiting sites; education and training programs; and state, city, and borough industry information.

Industry Jobs | Food Stylist

As one of the premier studio production companies in New York, Broadway Stages works to meet the growing needs of the film and TV industry while also focusing on the needs of our community. We provide the industry with a soundstage or location where they shoot their scenes, but they also need a skilled and experienced workforce. In this series, we look at the various jobs that make a production come to life. We hope it provides insight and encourages you to consider a career in the film and TV industry. This week, we look at the role of food stylist.

What Does a Food Stylist Do?

In previous posts, we looked at the props-related art department roles of props manager and animal trainer. An area of props that is integral to our daily lives and so often important to telling a story on screen is food. In this post, we focus on the industry role that is responsible for the food seen on screen in TV and film productions. Read on for an overview of the role of food stylist.  

Depending on the production, the responsibility for the food seen on screen might be handled by the props master or a separate food stylist. During pre-production, the food stylist will review the script for food-related scenes and conduct research on any unique aspects of the food, such as historical or geographical context. In addition to the props master, the stylist works with the director and department heads. Responsibilities of food stylists can include sourcing and preparing food (by themselves or along with team members) and replenishing or resetting food during filming to maintain continuity. Also, food stylists might need to provide instruction to cast members who will work with food on screen. In this Backstage interview, food stylist Christine Tobin (“Julia,” and “Little Women”) describes the food stylist role and provides advice for aspiring food stylists. (Fans can read more about the set and cooking on “Julia” in this Variety piece,” and movie buffs can watch this Vanity Fair video in which Food Stylist Susan Spungen [“Julie & Julia,” Eat, Pray, Love”] reviews food scenes from a number of films).

How Do I Become a Food Stylist?

It goes without saying that food stylists need to possess culinary knowledge, as well as a knowledge of food safety. They also need to be organized and possess good communication skills as they meet production schedules and work with others. Creativity and an ability to solve problems are skills a food stylist needs, to find solutions to the unique issues that come up from production to production. Also, the food stylist should possess an ability to produce items that are edible and can hold up to the conditions of filming. Watch this Movies Insider video interview showing how food was handled in the movie “Midsommar,” including how Chef and Food Stylist Zoe Hegedus found a way to accommodate the negative effects of heat, as well as cast member egg allergies, by creating an edible product that looks just like eggs yolks.

PHOTO CREDIT: STanley quah via pixabay

Culinary school is not necessary but can be helpful to learn relevant skills. Food industry experience and networking will help in this career path. Tobin says, “Getting as much exposure and experiences assisting other stylists was my greatest tool, as was working in restaurants for a solid 20 years….I’d also get in touch with the property masters in your community to introduce yourself and show how you’d be an asset to their team.”

As we all know, Sunday family dinners are a key feature of “Blue Bloods,” the long-running CBS series filmed here at Broadway Stages. Take a look at this CBS piece to see 14 Of The Best Blue Bloods Family Dinner Moments. Read this CBS Watch Magazine article that features “’Blue Bloods prop master Zach Badalucco and freelance recipe developer and caterer Treva Chadwell, the creative and culinary masterminds behind the legendary food and dinner scenes” (the article tells us that “Chadwell, a classically trained chef, and her husband, John, have been preparing food for “Blue Bloods” since Season 3. Former owners of the now-closed BeeHive Oven restaurant, they work with Badalucco to ensure meals reflect scripts and scenes.”). Also check out this 2015 article in The Virginian-Pilot that includes an interview Prop Master Jim Lillis and mentions Broadway Stages and the Chadwells. 

Learn about film and TV industry jobs, training, and more in the Broadway Stages’ Industry Resource Guide. Our guide provides information about industry-focused job posting sites; links to general recruiting sites; education and training programs; and state, city, and borough industry information.

Industry Jobs | Animal Trainer

As one of the premier studio production companies in New York, Broadway Stages works to meet the growing needs of the film and TV industry while also focusing on the needs of our community. We provide the industry with a soundstage or location where they shoot their scenes, but they also need a skilled and experienced workforce. In this series, we look at the various jobs that make a production come to life. We hope it provides insight and encourages you to consider a career in the film and TV industry. This week, we look at the role of animal trainer.

What's an animal trainer?

Behind every Lassie and Mister Ed is a dedicated animal trainer who teaches them to hit their marks, avoid distractions, and bark or neigh on cue. Despite breakthroughs in computer-generated imagery (CGI) and other technology, many productions employ real-life furry, feathered, or flippered actors, including shows filmed at Broadway Stages.

Different animals respond to different cues and have unique learning styles; what works for a dog might not work for a cat. Some animal trainers specialize in specific species, while others handle everything from bugs to pigs, and snakes to horses.

What does an animal trainer do?

An animal trainer's job begins well before filming and can require being on call 24/7. Animals require exercise, a healthy diet, and playtime, and trainers must understand animal behavior to train and care for a variety of species.

Trainers must also have plenty of space to house and train animals. It is best to train them in areas that resemble film sets so they become accustomed to the bright lights and often chaotic environment. Trainers must also provide top-notch veterinary and grooming care, transportation to safely get animals to and from the set, training equipment, and of course food, treats, and toys.

One of the most important skills for animal actors to learn is hitting their mark. The animal must be in the right place at the right time and be able to perform a specific task on cue. This takes months of practice and requires a ton of patience and treats. Every time an animal gets closer to their mark or completing their task, they get rewarded with positive reinforcement (typically a small treat). Most trainers also use a clicker, which signals to the animal that they have completed the desired task. It is important to train every day to keep the animals' minds sharp.

Some trainers never step foot on the film or television set, instead helping to prepare animals ahead of time. Others work with the animals on set, giving cues off-camera or behind a set piece. This can require running or other physical activity and working in various environments and climates, indoors or outdoors. They must also regularly consult with actors, directors, and others on the set to make sure they are all on the same page and the animal is comfortable. They also must adhere to all American Humane Association guidelines.

Trainers must be compassionate, patient, and quick on their feet. Learn more about the responsibilities and day-to-day work here.

How do I become an animal trainer?

Many animal trainers hold degrees in animal science, pre-veterinary studies, animal behavior, zoology, or marine biology. Some schools offer specific programs, like the Exotic Animal Training Management Program at Moorpark College. Internships at zoos or aquariums can also provide valuable experience.

Related: How I became an animal trainer for movies and television

As is the case with most jobs, working under an experienced trainer is the best way to learn and make connections to break into the business. A general interest in film is also important, and some trainers begin as production assistants to better learn their way around a film set.

Another related role you might consider if you love the TV/Film business and animals is animal coordinator.  In this role, an individual acts as a casting agent for a film, tv series or commercial. Similar to the traditional casting agent, the responsibilities include “…reading the script, breaking down all the animal action so you know what is expected of each character as well as notes about their personality and appearance. Then there are meetings with the writers, producers, and director to learn their vision of the animal characters and their actions.”

If you want to learn more about film and TV industry jobs and training, check out the Broadway Stages Industry Resource Guide. Our guide provides information about industry-focused job posting sites; links to general recruiting sites; education and training programs; and state, city, and borough industry information.

Industry Jobs | Film Editor

As one of the premier studio production companies in New York, Broadway Stages works to meet the growing needs of the film and TV industry while also focusing on the needs of our community. We provide the industry with a soundstage or location where they shoot their scenes, but they also need a skilled and experienced workforce. In this series, we look at the various jobs that make a production come to life. We hope it provides insight and encourages you to consider a career in the film and TV industry. This week, we look at the role of film editor.

What’s a film editor?

In a previous post, we looked at the role of the director and how the various departments involved in a production work to meet the director’s creative vision. Key in making this vision come alive is a role that takes the vast amount of footage captured during filming and assembles it to finalize that vision – the film editor. You might have heard this role mentioned as one among several that were excluded from the recent Academy Awards main broadcast. Nonetheless, without film editors, film and TV productions would not be possible. Read on for an overview of this crucial industry position.

What does a film editor do?

The film editor is involved during the pre-production and production stages. The editor works with the director to understand the script, monitors progress of the filming, and begins assembling the scenes. In post-production, the film editor shapes the way the story is told, using their skills, experience, and creativity to arrange the footage (typically filmed out of order) to tell the story. The editor works with the sound and visual effects teams, as well as the composer, to integrate multiple elements into the film. The editor also works closely with the director and producers to create subsequent cuts of the film. Learn more about the film editor role at ScreenSkills, NFI, and How Stuff Works. Read more about post-production on BackStage, including differences between TV and film.

How do I become an editor?

In addition to being knowledgeable about filmmaking and the industry, a film editor should be a good storyteller and skilled at using editing software. A film editor should also be a good communicator, have an attention to detail, and be able solve problems. Attending film school is not required, but it can be helpful in building skills and experience, as well as developing a professional network. As with many industry roles, on the job experience, including entry level jobs such as production assistant or assistant editor is a way to work up to the film editor job. Find tips on how to get experience and develop a career in film editing at Careers in Film, How Stuff Works, MasterClass, and StudioBinder.

And, as always, you can learn about film and TV industry jobs, training, and more in the Broadway Stages’ Industry Resource Guide. Our guide provides information about industry-focused job posting sites; links to general recruiting sites; education and training programs; and state, city, and borough industry information

Industry Jobs | What is a Script Supervisor?

As one of the premier studio production companies in New York, Broadway Stages works to meet the growing needs of the film and TV industry while also focusing on the needs of our community. We provide the industry with a soundstage or location where they shoot their scenes, but they also need a skilled and experienced workforce. In this series, we look at the various jobs that make a production come to life. We hope it provides insight and encourages you to consider a career in the film and TV industry. This week, we look at the role of a script supervisor.

What Is a Script Supervisor?

In our previous Industry Jobs series posts, we have highlighted many of the key roles and departments involved in bringing a director’s vision to life in a film or TV production. When the cameras roll, these many different elements, from photography and lighting, to costumes, props, actors, and more, come together to create the scenes that are pieced together to make the final product. Considering that these detail-rich scenes are often filmed out of order and assembled later by the editing team, it is easy to see how inconsistencies can occur in the final version. You have likely seen or heard about these mistakes — obvious things such as an almost empty glass appearing full in the very next shot within a scene; inconsistencies in an actor’s clothing or hair; noticeable differences in lighting; or distracting holes in the plot. Fortunately, there is key a role that pays attention to these details to ensure the continuity of scenes — the script supervisor. Read on for an overview of this role that is integral to planning in the pre-production stage and keeping everything on track through the production and post-production stages.

What Does a Script Supervisor Do?

The script supervisor is involved in the pre-production stage to break down the script in detail, including noting characters, props, time of day, sounds, and other elements that will be in each scene. They also estimate the time it will take to film each scene, which helps estimate the total time of the production. The script breakdown helps with planning for the departments that will be involved in production.

During the production stage, the script supervisor is on-point to pay attention to every detail of filming. Before scenes are filmed, they make sure all elements of the scene are in place. During filming, they take detailed notes of the characters’ actions, prop condition and placement, lighting, camera lenses used, and much more. They keep track of the timing for each scene, provide the information for the clapperboard (or slate), and maintain the official copy of the script. The script supervisor compiles the information they collected during filming into a production book that is used in post-production to ensure that those putting together the final product can accurately follow the script and avoid continuity mistakes. Read more about the responsibilities of a script supervisor at MasterClass and StudioBinder. Hear firsthand about the role from Script Supervisor Tim Hunt in this Filmmaker Den video series.

How Do I Become a Script Supervisor?

A script supervisor needs to be organized, have good communication skills, and possess a strong attention to detail. As with many jobs in the industry, there is no formal education required for this role, however, attending film school can be helpful. On-set experience, such as being a production assistant, can help one learn how film and TV production works and to develop a network. Read more about qualities a script supervisor should possess and ways to become one at MasterClass, and get resources and firsthand advice from a script supervisor at Careers in Film.

Learn about film and TV industry jobs, training, and more in the Broadway Stages’ Industry Resource Guide. Our guide provides information about industry-focused job posting sites; links to general recruiting sites; job profiles; education and training programs; and state, city, and borough industry information.

Industry Jobs | Producer

As one of the premier studio production companies in New York, Broadway Stages works to meet the growing needs of the film and TV industry while also focusing on the needs of our community. We provide the industry with a soundstage or location where they shoot their scenes, but they also need a skilled and experienced workforce. In this series, we look at the various jobs that make a production come to life. We hope it provides insight and encourages you to consider a career in the film and TV industry. This week, we look at the role of a Producer.

What Is a Producer?

In our last Industry Jobs series post, we highlighted the role of director, the creative leader of a film or TV project whose vision all areas of a production work to meet. In this post, we look at another above the line role — the overall lead for a production — the producer. As you have noticed while watching the credits roll, there are a number of titles containing “producer,” and you might scratch your head wondering why. In this blog, we focus on the general role of a producer in film and TV and tell you where you can learn more about the various types of producers and what they do. Read on!

What Does a Producer Do?

As a production’s leader, the producer will typically be involved in all stages, from development and pre-production, through production and post-production. The producer is often the one who launches the project. For example, they might bring an idea to the table, own the rights, or maybe even write the story. Producers are involved in the business and financial side of a production, including the crucial step of finding the money to fund the project. They also assemble a team, including a director and other key leaders, as well as play a role in casting the main talent. They make sure the project stays on schedule and on budget, approve the final product, and market it. And if the production is an award-winner, the producers will be given credit and have the opportunity to accept the award (see the Best Picture category for the Oscars here, as a recent example). Read more about the responsibilities of producers at MasterClass and Careers in Film.

So, what about the many types of producers we see when the credits roll? These include executive producer, associate producer, co-producer, creative producer, line producer, and more, each responsible for a specific area. It is easy to see how one “producer” would not be able to handle all these areas, especially for a large production. Hence, there are the many producer titles. For example, the executive producer will secure financing and set the budget, but the line producer will manage the budget and other logistics-related aspects (see our post about the line producer role here). Find more information about different kinds of producers at MasterClass and NFI. Also, a producer’s job can vary depending on the type of production, for example, TV, film, or theater. Read this Backstage article that describes these differences.

How Do I Become a Producer?

As with other lead roles on a production, a producer should possess strong leadership, organization, and communication skills. They should also have strong business and financial skills. And it goes without saying that a producer should have a knowledge of filmmaking. See Masterclass for more key characteristics a producer should have.

There is no formal education required for this role, however, film school degrees or courses are helpful to learn about filmmaking, as are business and other degrees or courses that can transfer to the responsibilities of a producer. As with other on-set leadership roles, on-the-job experience working in a variety of on-set roles can help the prospective producer gain experience while working up to the role, as well as helping to develop a network. See Backstage for more information about how to become a producer.

Read advice and more details about the job from professional producers at Careers in Film. Learn about film and TV industry jobs, training, and more in the Broadway Stages’ Industry Resource Guide. Our guide provides information about industry-focused job posting sites; links to general recruiting sites; job profiles; education and training programs; and state, city, and borough industry information.

Industry Jobs | Director

As one of the premier studio production companies in New York, Broadway Stages works to meet the growing needs of the film and TV industry while also focusing on the needs of our community. We provide the industry with a soundstage or location where they shoot their scenes, but they also need a skilled and experienced workforce. In this series, we look at the various jobs that make a production come to life. We hope it provides insight and encourages you to consider a career in the film and TV industry. This week, we look at the role of a Director.

What Is a Director?

In our Industry Jobs series, we have highlighted many leadership roles, each leading departments that are integral to bringing a production to life. Whether director of photography, production designer, sound designer, location manager, or other department heads, all areas of a production are concerned with one thing in particular: producing the director’s creative vision. The director is the lead role on a film or tv set and is involved from pre- through post-production. Directors also work on other types of productions, such as documentaries, music videos, live events, and commercials, so the director’s role might vary depending on the type of production. In this post, we will give a general overview of the role, focused on films and TV. So, what does a director do?

What Does a Director Do?

The director reports to the producer, and works closely with various department heads and the actors (but should not be confused with the 1st Assistant Director, or 1st AD, who is the key communication link between the director and the cast and crew). In the pre-production stage, the director will establish the creative vision for the production and will help their team understand that vision. At this stage, the director will need to become familiar with the script and communicate their vision of how to bring that script to life to the team of department leads they have been assembled. Also at this stage, the director will be involved in activities such as casting, location selection, and practical items that will help move the project to the next stage.

Next, in the production stage, the director provides guidance to the department heads and actors to help them bring forth effects and performances that produce the creative vision. This can include many aspects, from camera angles and shots, to how the actors deliver their lines. In the end, the director is responsible for the final decisions in all areas. Finally, in post-production, the director works with editors, the sound team, special effects, and music composers to create the final version of the film. To take a closer look at the role of a director, see this StudioBinder article and watch this PBS CrashCourse video. To hear firsthand about the role from professional directors, watch StudioBinder’s Director’s Chair video series on YouTube. Also, check out information about the role and firsthand advice from directors at Careers in Film.

How Do I Become a Director?

As the lead role on a set, a director should possess strong leadership and organization skills. A director should be a good communicator, with the ability to coach others so they give the desired performance or result. A director should also have a strong knowledge of the various departments and functions involved in a production, including familiarity with the equipment and technology used. And, importantly, as the lead storyteller of the production, a director needs to be creative. As with other on-set leadership roles, on-the-job experience working in a variety of on-set roles can help the prospective director gain experience while working up to the role.

There is no formal education required for this role, however, film school or courses can be helpful to learn about filmmaking. See Masterclass for some degrees to consider here. StudioBinder recommends that prospective directors consider attending film school; they offer more recommendations: studying the films of other directors, getting on-set experience in various roles, creating your own films, making a director’s reel of your work, submitting your films to film festivals, and attending festivals for networking opportunities. Read the full article here. Learn more about how to become a director, including the skills and experience needed at Backstage.

Learn about film and TV industry jobs, training, and more in the Broadway Stages’ Industry Resource Guide. Our guide provides information about industry-focused job posting sites; links to general recruiting sites; education and training programs; and state, city, and borough industry information. We also include a link to all of the blogs created to date, about the various jobs that make a production come to life.

"The Gilded Age" Coming to HBO on January 24

If the pandemic has prevented you from traveling over the last two years, you may find comfort going back in time via Julian Fellowes’ new HBO show “The Gilded Age.” The creator of “Downton Abbey” (2010-2015) and screenwriter of “Gosford Park” (2001) will transport viewers to 1880s New York when his latest period drama launches on January 24. At Broadway Stages, we cannot wait to see how our facilities help bring that turbulent period in New York City’s history to life.

A brief history lesson before you travel back in time: The Gilded Age (1870s-1900) was a period of rapid economic growth and industrialization in America. Skyscrapers transformed the skylines of Chicago and New York City while wealthy Americans built massive mansions in Newport, Rhode Island. It was a period of widening disparity between the rich and the poor and a constant battle between old money aristocrats and nouveau riche industrialists over who ruled high society.

“The Gilded Age” centers on Marian Brook (Louisa Jacobson), a penniless and orphaned young woman who moves from rural Pennsylvania to New York City in 1882 to live with her aristocratic aunts Agnes van Rhijn (Christine Baranski) and Ada Brook (Cynthia Nixon). Marian brings with her Peggy Scott (Denée Benton), an aspiring writer seeking a fresh start. Marian finds herself in the middle of a war between Aunt Agnes and her “new money” neighbors, the ruthless railroad tycoon George Russell (Morgan Spector) and his ambitious wife Bertha (Carrie Coon).

Others in the cast include Taissa Farmiga, Blake Ritson, Simon Jones, Harry Richardson, Thomas Cocquerel, and Jack Gilpin. Jeanne Tripplehorn, Nathan Lane, and Audra McDonald (Baranski’s co-star on “The Good Fight,” also filmed at Broadway Stages) will guest star.

This project has been in the works for years, but it is finally arriving at the perfect time for television viewers eager to travel without leaving home. This interview of Christine Baranski on The Late Show with Steven Colbert, provides insight on the authenticity of the period costumes. For more about “The Gilded Age” check out the trailer below.

Industry Jobs | Production Assistant

As one of the premier studio production companies in New York, Broadway Stages works to meet the growing needs of the film and TV industry while also focusing on the needs of our community. We provide the industry with a soundstage or location where they shoot their scenes, but they also need a skilled and experienced workforce. In this series, we look at the various jobs that make a production come to life. We hope it provides insight and encourages you to consider a career in the film and TV industry. This week, we look at the role of a production assistant.

What is a Production Assistant?

Throughout our series on the numerous and interesting jobs in the film and TV industry, we have seen a common theme: a good way to break into the industry is to start as a production assistant (PA). Although the entry-level PA role requires being a gofer and taking care of myriad, menial tasks day in and day out, it is crucial to the successful operation of a production. This role can help aspiring industry professionals gain on-the-job experience and develop networks to help them work their way up through the ranks and into their dream jobs. Let’s look at a PA’s responsibilities.

What Does a Production Assistant Do?

According to MasterClass, a PA’s tasks vary depending on whether the person is working on sets during filming (field PA), in the office (office PA), or in postproduction (postproduction PA). Field PAs might help with set clean-up, transportation, food orders, and more. Office PAs might answer phones, handle paperwork, and other office tasks as needed. Postproduction PAs, who help the editors and producers who work with the film footage, might help organize content, and, as with any PA role, more tasks as needed. The varied nature of PA tasks can be seen in Careers in Film’s overview of the role in which Kaitlin Cornell, a Marvel Entertainment PA, says “Personally, I’ve had a wide variety of odd jobs, from office work to making sure that shipments go out on time to just plain old sweeping.” See firsthand what it is like to be a field PA in this RocketJump Film School video, “A Day in the Life of a Production Assistant.”

Being a PA not only gives you a front row view into how the various departments involved in a production work, but it can lead you to higher level positions in those departments. So how do you land a job as a PA?

How do I become a Production Assistant?

While there is no specific experience or degree required to become a PA, a film school degree can give you an advantage over other candidates. Careers in Film staff member Alison Stolpa, quoted in their overview of the role, says, “Even though it’s an entry-level position, finding a Production Assistant gig is super competitive. This means hiring committees get to pick the best and brightest candidates, which usually means Production Assistants will have a college degree, usually from a film program.” Another advantage is having a network that can recommend you as a candidate. MasterClass points out that “…many positions will come down to networking: knowing people who will hear about job openings and can vouch for you as a hard worker.” Further, the Nashville Film Institute suggests other tips for those seeking a PA role, such as living in an area where movies and TV shows are made, talking with PAs, joining industry groups on social media, and more.

A valuable skill that you should possess as a prospective PA is a good attitude, as PAs are expected to handle many unglamourous tasks without complaining. This can-do attitude will also help you build a good reputation and make it more likely that you will get additional jobs. In their overview of the PA role, Backstage emphasizes additional skills for a successful PA, “It’s important to be reliable, available, and positive, and to have strong communication skills: asking questions and having a concrete understanding of your tasks in the midst of the hectic shooting day is extremely important.“

Read more about the production assistant role at MasterClass, Careers in Film, Backstage, and the Nashville Film Institute. Learn about film and TV industry jobs, training, and more in the Broadway Stages’ Industry Resource Guide. Our guide provides information about industry-focused job posting sites; links to general recruiting sites; education and training programs; and state, city, and borough industry information.

Industry Jobs | Transportation Captain

As one of the premier studio production companies in New York, Broadway Stages works to meet the growing demands of the film and TV industry while also focusing on the needs of our community. We provide the industry with a soundstage or location where they shoot their scenes, but they also need a skilled and experienced workforce. In this series, we look at the various jobs that make a production come to life. We hope it provides insight and encourages you to consider a career in the film and TV industry. This week, we look at the role of a transportation captain.

What is a Transportation Captain?

In our last Industry Jobs post, we looked at the role of the location manager, which is key to finding and securing locations where filming can take place. This week, we look at the role that leads the huge logistical task of making sure people and equipment are in the right place at the right time — the transportation captain. Whether in a studio or on location, if the cast, crew, and equipment are not where they need to be at the right time, there can be production delays, so this role is crucial in making sure everything runs smoothly. Read on for an overview of this role’s responsibilities.

What Does a Transportation Captain Do?

The transportation captain (or coordinator) leads a team that includes transportation managers and drivers who handle various transportation needs on a production, from picking up cast members and driving them to the set, to transporting trailers, and more. The vehicles “may include cube trucks, passenger vans, stake beds, flatbeds, limos, cars or any other needed production vehicle,” according to Film in Colorado. In their overview of the role, Beverly Boy Productions says the transportation coordinator “is responsible for procuring transportation vehicles associated with production” and “works closely with rental companies and transport contractors to negotiate rental agreements and secure transport.”

The transportation captain’s other responsibilities include scouting locations to identify and work around any physical barriers that would prevent the vehicles from reaching or navigating the locations. The captain also obtains vehicle insurance and returns vehicles when they are no longer needed. Read about these and other responsibilities of a transportation lead in an interview with Transportation Coordinator Bob Foster. For additional insight into what it is like to lead the transportation team, see this Los Angeles Daily News interview with Transportation Coordinator Dusty Saunders. And you can find an overview of the role on Backstage.

How Do I Become a Transportation Captain?

There is no formal education required for this job. However, as a leadership position, it does require skills and experience. According to Backstage, “Transportation captains need substantial driving experience and skill, a valid commercial driver’s license, strong organizational and communication skills, and the ability to manage a large team and keep them on schedule.” Of course, the nature of the role requires a knowledge of safety. And Beverly Boy Productions notes that transportation coordinators “must be skilled in transporting cargo and they must have an understanding of loads and road navigation.” Transportation Coordinator Bob Foster recommends ways to get the experience and skills needed for the role, including being a PA, attending driving school, and interning at vehicle rental houses.

Learn about film and TV industry jobs, training, and more in the Broadway Stages’ Industry Resource Guide. Our guide provides information about industry-focused job posting sites; links to general recruiting sites; education and training programs; and state, city, and borough industry information.

Industry Jobs | Location Manager

As one of the premier studio production companies in New York, Broadway Stages works to meet the growing needs of the film and TV industry while also focusing on the needs of our community. We provide the industry with a soundstage or location where they shoot their scenes, but they also need a skilled and experienced workforce. In this series, we look at the various jobs that make a production come to life. We hope it provides insight and encourages you to consider a career in the film and TV industry. This week, we look at the role of a location manager.

What is a Location Manager?

In our last Industry Jobs post, we looked at the role of the first assistant director (1st AD), which is integral to a film’s planning, scheduling, and management activities. This week, we look at a role that is key to a production’s planning and scheduling when the decision is made to film on-location versus in a studio – the location manager. This leadership role is involved in the pre-production stage to ensure the right locations are identified and secured, and during the production stage to ensure that various location-related needs are met. Let’s look at an overview of the location manager’s responsibilities.

What Does a Location Manager Do?

The location manager heads the location department, which has roles such as assistant location manager, location scout, and location assistant. In the pre-production stage, the location manager works with the production designer and director to address both creative and practical considerations. They determine location needs based on the script, considering the director’s creative requirements. They also consider logistical requirements to accommodate needed crew members and equipment. Typically, several visits are made to a location to evaluate it, first by the location scout and then by others. The location manager works with the production designer and director to come to a final location decision. MasterClass provides an overview of the location manager’s responsibilities at this stage, including some of the aspects to consider for a location, like infrastructure-related needs (e.g., electricity and plumbing); space needs (e.g., for trailers and parking); access to medical facilities; and noise concerns. The location manager will negotiate fees with property owners; get needed permits and insurance; make sure health and safety requirements are met; and communicate with the neighbors to let them know when filming will take place. Finally, the location manager will ensure the set is equipped to meet the crew’s needs, such as providing a power supply and services such as security and a cleaning crew.

“The good wife” on location at café grumpy, greenpoint, brooklyn.

MasterClass explains that during the production stage, the location manager will work with the assistant director to “map out the crew’s arrival times, distribute maps, and generally ensure that all crew members know where they are supposed to be at all times.” They will also trouble-shoot any problems; prepare the location that will be used the next day; interact with the public; and once filming is over, return the location to its original condition (see this Careers In Film interview in which Location Manager Alex Banderas explains the role the location manager plays in making sure the location is left in the same condition in which it was found.) See this Film Independent video for an overview of the location manager role.

How do I become a Location Manager?

There is no formal education required for this job, however a background in other fields can be helpful. In this Career Sighted video, Location Scout & Location Manager Dale Dreher says, “You can take almost any degree and transfer it into locations work. At least take one or two classes in architecture, photography, sales, negotiation, deal making. If you could learn a little bit about landscaping, that would be helpful.” As with other on-set leadership roles, on-the-job experience is the best way for one to work up to this role. Dreher recommends that a way to get into the locations department is to get work as a production assistant (PA) on set in any department, then network and make connections.

A location manager should have strong organization skills, with the ability to delegate to team members; and strong communication skills, with the ability to interact well with others. In addition, this Backstage article recommends that “a good eye for design and strong attention to detail are definitely useful, as is strong knowledge of unique geographical locations.”

Read more about the location manager role and the skills and experience needed at ScreenSkills and Media Match. Learn about film and TV industry jobs, training, and more in the Broadway Stages’ Industry Resource Guide. Our guide provides information about industry-focused job posting sites; links to general recruiting sites; education and training programs; and state, city, and borough industry information.

Industry Jobs | First Assistant Director

As one of the premier studio production companies in New York, Broadway Stages works to meet the growing needs of the film and TV industry while also focusing on the needs of our community. We provide the industry with a soundstage or location where they shoot their scenes, but they also need a skilled and experienced workforce. In this series, we look at the various jobs that make a production come to life. We hope it provides insight and encourages you to consider a career in the film and TV industry. This week, we look at the role of a 1st AD.

What is a 1st AD?

In our last Industry Jobs post, we looked at the role of the line producer, a leadership role that is key to a film’s planning and budget. This week, we look at another leadership role, one that is integral to a film’s planning, scheduling, and management activities — the first assistant director, commonly known as the 1st AD. Whereas the line producer is concerned with planning, scheduling and logistics primarily from a budgetary perspective, the 1st AD plays a key role in not only the planning, scheduling, and logistics, but also is responsible for making sure everything works as planned on the set, leaving the director to take care of creative concerns.  According to MasterClass, “While the director handles all creative decisions, the monumental job of coordinating and wrangling the cast and crew falls to the first assistant director.” The 1st AD is the key communication link between the director and the cast and crew and is involved in the pre-production and production stages of a film. Let’s look at the 1st AD’s responsibilities.

What Does a 1st AD Do?

In the pre-production stage, the 1st AD creates storyboards and works with the line producer and others to break the down the script in great detail related to the shooting schedule, to include locations, times, talent needed, etc. In the production stage, they work with the second assistant director (2nd AD) to create the daily call sheet, the key organizational document to keep cast and crew on schedule. The call sheet contains important information, such as arrival times, contact information, scenes to be shot, locations, talent, and other important items included in the day’s schedule that the 1st AD will need to ensure is implemented. Read more about call sheets on Backstage. The 1st AD is also responsible for the crucial communication that signals that filming is to start, or “calling the roll.” Masterclass explains, “Calling the roll is when the 1st AD cues the various department heads (including camera operator, key grip, and sound mixer) to prepare for filming to start.” Other responsibilities during the production stage include serving as the line of communication between the director and the cast and crew, managing any on-set conflicts that arise, and, crucially, ensuring set safety.

How do I become a 1st AD?

The 1st AD role requires knowledge of the many departments and functions related to a film production, as well as strong planning, organization, coordination, multi-tasking, and communication skills. A knowledge of health and safety requirements is also important. There is no formal education required for this job, however, film courses can be helpful to learn about filmmaking. As with other on-set leadership roles, on-the-job experience working in a variety of on-set roles can help the prospective 1st AD gain experience while working up to the role.

Read more about the 1st AD role and the skills and training needed at MasterClass, StudioBinder, and Backstage. Learn about film and TV industry jobs, training, and more in the Broadway Stages’ Industry Resource Guide. Our guide provides information about industry-focused job posting sites; links to general recruiting sites; education and training programs; and state, city, and borough industry information.