Blurred Lines: Clearing Up Common Crew Overlaps
Like any work environment, film sets can be hectic places. This is largely why crew positions are so neatly defined, creating a clear division of labor that keeps things rolling (literally).
Depending on where and what you are shooting though, the lines between specialized crew roles can get a little blurry. Smaller shoots or tighter budgets might necessitate doing more with less. In these situations, it’s not unusual to see professionals wearing multiple hats or simply lending a hand across departments.
These collaborative environments can be really fun, and great for learning the ropes. (They’re also a lifesaver if you’re the one doing the staffing and need a few jacks-of-all-trades on the roster.) However, the overlapping crew responsibilities can get a little confusing, especially when trying to figure out who to ask for what.
To ensure a production runs smoothly, you need to know the “rules” – even if you plan to bend them. Everyone on set plays a distinct role; gaining an understanding of each will help you navigate potential overlaps more effectively.
So, if you find yourself surrounded by more (or less) crew than you’re used to and are trying to define your responsibilities, or you’re new and simply wondering who to ask about the extras, keep reading. This article tackles common sources of confusion on set and untangles the crew overlaps most likely to leave you scratching your head.
Navigating Common Overlaps
To better understand who does what on set, let’s dissect some of the most common crew overlaps within each department and explore the nuances of each role.
1st AD vs 2nd AD
As the director’s right hand, the 1st Assistant Director (AD) does a lot of heavy lifting on set. They’re responsible for managing most of the daily operations, from crafting the shooting schedule to keeping track of everyone. Since they usually have their hands full with the many little problems that invariably crop up during filming, it’s best to direct your questions or requests to their assistant – the 2nd AD.
Generally responsible for coordinating extras, liaising between departments, and helping things run smoothly, the 2nd AD position isn’t a part of every production. On some sets though, their workload is so heavy that they have their own assistant – the 2nd 2nd AD.
If the naming convention doesn’t confuse you, the overlap in responsibilities just might, as determining who is in charge (and who to approach) can grow a little muddled. When in doubt, we’ve found the best solution is to simply speak up. Politely asking “Can you help me with this, or should I be speaking to someone else?” is clear and direct, but also shows you have respect for the ‘chain of command’ on set.
Director of Photography vs Camera Operator
In the camera department, a common crew overlap occurs between the director of photography (DP) and the camera operator.
The DP – also sometimes designated as cinematographer – heads up the camera department and oversees the visual direction of the film, while the camera operator is the person who physically operates the camera. Both roles require artistic and technical skill, but can become blurred on smaller productions where the DP often also serves as the camera operator.
1st AC vs 2nd AC
Another overlap in the camera department occurs between the 1st and 2nd assistant cameras (AC). The 1st AC is typically responsible for adapting or “pulling” focus to accommodate the changes in distance as subjects move around the set. In addition to this very skilled job, 1st ACs usually also manage the camera equipment.
The 2nd AC supports the department by prepping the camera, keeping reports on every shot, and slating the scene. On some productions, however, these roles may overlap or simply not be clearly defined. Again, to avoid confusion, maintain open lines of communication. Always ask questions if you’re unsure who is responsible for what, and don’t hesitate to clarify tasks to ensure everyone is on the same page.
Gaffer vs Grip
While the roles of gaffer and grip typically have less overlap, they can still be a source of confusion, particularly when it comes to handling equipment.
Traditionally, the gaffer heads up the electrical department – which is in charge of all electrical needs on set, from powering set lights to providing power for your laptop. Gaffers work with and directly under the DP, helping to craft a comprehensive technical plan that will achieve desired lighting effects that are key to the overall look of the production.
Grips, meanwhile, are largely responsible for building and moving this lighting equipment around. They also support the camera department by rigging and maintaining any structural elements that will allow the equipment to safely sit, move, hang, or swoop for the perfect shot. Needless to say, it’s a physically demanding gig!
Though their talents and responsibilities are distinct, they also complement one another quite seamlessly. So, say you need a light adjusted, but it’s mounted on a C-stand – who should you ask, the gaffer or the grip?
In such cases, it may be necessary to “read the room” and determine the working dynamics of the crew, as some teams may be more comfortable with blurring crew roles while others have specific preferences or even protocols. For example, with smaller crews, you may see a position noted as “swing” which indicates a person who does both G&E (grip and electric) tasks.
Sound Mixer vs Boom Operator
The sound department ensures all audio elements of a production are not just high quality, but also contribute to the overall storytelling and viewer experience. A common crew overlap occurs between the sound mixer and boom operator.
The sound mixer is responsible for recording and mixing all relevant audio on set, ensuring that elements like dialogue, ambient noise, and sound effects are all captured with clarity. The boom operator has the deltoid-burning job of placing and holding the boom microphone to capture clean audio, specifically dialogue. Sometimes, they are also responsible for placing microphones around the set or on actors’ clothing.
Again, these two jobs require different skill sets, but it’s not uncommon on smaller or lower-budget productions to find one professional fulfilling both roles.
Art Department = Crossover Central
The art department can represent one of the more entertaining examples of confusing crew overlap on set - as well as one of the most common.
Take, for example, a scene set in a teenager’s messy bedroom. If a laundry hamper full of clothes sits beside a dresser in the background, then it falls under the set dresser’s purview; but if the actor needs to kick it over in anger, it suddenly becomes a prop – and therefore, the prop master’s responsibility. And if the actor pulls a sweatshirt off the top and puts it on, well, now the item is part of wardrobe's domain, too.
Depending on a production's size and budget, however, these crew roles may not always be clearly divided. In fact, many of them may be performed by one person!
While crossovers and combined responsibilities are common in the art department, it’s still important to understand the different roles. Remember, many sets prefer clear boundaries between crew positions – and they expect you to respect the hierarchy, so knowing your role and others' is important to keep production running smoothly.
Find Clarity on Set
To help navigate these and other inevitable crew overlaps on set (and wrap your head around the breakdown of positions), consider keeping some of these tips in mind:
Request and review as many materials as possible before a shoot, such as scripts, shot lists, and production schedules, to better understand the breakdown of roles and responsibilities on your particular set.
Pay close attention to the call sheet as it will indicate everyone who needs to be on set that day, along with their name, role, and contact info.
Prioritize open communication and establish regular check-ins with your team to address any issues or to clarify any confusion about your own role and tasks.
Stay organized and don’t be afraid to write things down. This will ensure you stay on task and avoid misunderstandings.
Still confused about who does what? Check out Studio Binder’s Ultimate Guide to Film Crew Positions, which includes helpful videos on each crew member’s job, or download Set Hero’s high-res infographic, which organizes crew roles into clear, color-coded categories for quick reference.