1. PRODUCTION DEPARTMENT (ORGANISERS & LEADERS)

Producer - The producer is responsible for the entire project from beginning to end. They raise financing, hire key crew (especially the director), secure rights and distribution, and make top-level decisions. On set, they may check in with department heads but tend to operate in the background unless there are major issues.

Executive Producer - Usually a financier or high-level industry figure who helps bring money or connections to the project. They are often not present on set.

Line Producer - Handles the physical production of the film. They manage the budget, hiring, logistics, and scheduling. They are on set or nearby and work closely with the 1st AD and production manager.

Production Manager (UPM) - Works under the line producer. They coordinate schedules, crew hires, contracts, equipment rentals, and overall daily management. They often stay in the production office but visit set frequently.

Production Coordinator - Oversees the admin side of production. They organise call sheets, crew lists, equipment orders, accommodation, travel, and maintain communication across departments. Usually based in the office.

1st Assistant Director (1st AD) - The 1st AD runs the set. They create and enforce the shooting schedule, run safety briefings, and make sure each department is ready for each shot. They are responsible for keeping the film on time.

2nd Assistant Director (2nd AD) - Creates daily call sheets and manages the movement of cast and background. They handle logistics like transport, signing in actors, and making sure people are in the right place.

3rd Assistant Director (3rd AD) - Assists the 2nd AD, manages background actors during scenes, and keeps communication flowing between the set and the base (where trailers, makeup, etc., are).

Production Assistant / Runner - Entry-level crew member who helps everyone. Duties include delivering items, setting up equipment, getting meals or coffee, managing radios, and doing paperwork.

Script Supervisor - Watches every take closely to ensure continuity. They note exact actions, dialogue, and timings to keep shots consistent and help the editor match everything. They sit near the director and monitor screens.

Location Manager - Scouts and secures filming locations, negotiates fees, gets permits, and makes sure the crew can safely and legally work at each site. They are on set managing access, neighbours, and local issues.

Location Assistant - Supports the location manager. Helps with signs, directing traffic, setting up base camp, and addressing minor problems on set.

2. DIRECTING DEPARTMENT

Director - The creative lead of the film. They work with actors to shape performances, work with the cinematographer to create the visual style, and make decisions on blocking, shot selection, tone, and rhythm. On set, they are usually near the monitor, watching performances and giving direction.

Director's Assistant - Helps the director stay on schedule and organised, often handling scripts, schedules, personal needs, and communications. They may take notes, pass along messages, and serve as a buffer to avoid distractions.

3. CAMERA DEPARTMENT

Director of Photography (DoP or Cinematographer) - Designs the visual language of the film. They choose camera angles, lenses, lighting setups, and work closely with the director. They supervise the camera, grip, and lighting teams.

Camera Operator - Physically operates the camera. They frame shots, follow action, and ensure smooth movement and timing. Takes cues from the DoP and director.

1st Assistant Camera (Focus Puller) - Responsible for pulling focus during shots, changing lenses, and ensuring the camera stays functional. This role is highly technical and always near the camera.

2nd Assistant Camera (Clapper Loader) - Prepares and slates shots with the clapperboard, manages memory cards, marks actor positions, and maintains detailed logs.

DIT (Digital Imaging Technician) - Manages the digital footage. They backup files, make rough colour adjustments, and ensure image consistency across takes. They also advise on technical issues and data workflow.

Steadicam / Gimbal Operator - A specialist who uses body-mounted or motorised stabilisers to capture smooth, fluid camera movement.

4. LIGHTING DEPARTMENT (ELECTRICAL)

Gaffer - The chief lighting technician. Works with the DoP to design the lighting and manages the team setting up lamps, diffusion, and modifiers.

Best Boy Electric - The gaffer’s right hand. Manages equipment, crew scheduling, power distribution, and inventory.

Electricians / Sparks - Set up and operate lighting instruments. They rig lights, run cables, handle dimmers, and maintain power safety.

5. GRIP DEPARTMENT

Key Grip - Head of the grip department. Responsible for camera support and rigging. Works closely with the DoP and gaffer to shape and control light with flags, bounces, and rigs.

Best Boy Grip - Assists the key grip. Manages equipment, scheduling, and the rest of the grip crew.

Grips - Build and adjust camera rigs, dollies, cranes, tracks, car mounts, and anything that supports or moves the camera or shapes light.

6. SOUND DEPARTMENT

Production Sound Mixer - Records all dialogue and ambient sound on set. Selects microphones, monitors levels, and ensures clean sound.

Boom Operator - Holds and positions the boom mic to capture dialogue while staying out of frame. Must follow actors and read cues silently.

Sound Assistant / Utility - Helps wire lav mics to actors, manage cables, set up gear, and monitor spare equipment and batteries.

7. COSTUME DEPARTMENT

Costume Designer - Designs outfits that reflect the character, period, and mood. Researches, sketches, sources, and sometimes builds costumes.

Wardrobe Supervisor - Manages the costume team, ensures continuity, organises fittings, and maintains wardrobe during the shoot.

Costume Assistants / Dressers - Help actors into costume, organise wardrobe racks, maintain costume condition, and assist during changes.

Standby Wardrobe - Stays on set to address any costume issues during takes (e.g. adjustments, continuity, spills).

8. HAIR & MAKEUP DEPARTMENT

Hair & Makeup Designer - Designs the hairstyles and makeup looks for all characters based on the script and director’s vision.

Makeup Artists / Hair Stylists - Apply makeup and style hair each day. Must recreate the same look daily for continuity and handle touch-ups.

Assistants / Trainees - Help with cleaning brushes, prepping kits, running errands, and basic touch-up tasks.

9. ART DEPARTMENT

Production Designer - Designs the overall visual world of the film (sets, props, colour palette, etc.). Collaborates closely with the director and DoP.

Art Director - Executes the designer's vision. Manages set construction, dressing, graphics, and supervises other art staff.

Set Designer - Creates technical drawings for set construction.

Props Master - Sources and manages all props used by actors. Maintains continuity and functionality.

Props Assistant - Helps manage, clean, and reset props between takes.

Set Decorator - Adds furniture, decorations, and practical items to create a believable space.

Dresser - Places and maintains set decorations.

Construction Manager - Oversees the physical building of sets.

Scenic Artist / Painter - Paints backdrops, signs, fake wood, stone, and weathering effects.

10. STUNTS, FX & VFX

Stunt Coordinator - Designs and supervises all stunt work. Trains performers and ensures safety.

Stunt Performer - Executes stunts instead of the main actor.

Special Effects Supervisor (SFX) - Creates physical effects such as explosions, smoke, fire, rain, wind, blood rigs, etc.

Visual Effects Supervisor (VFX) - Plans and oversees all digital effects that will be added in post-production.

11. CASTING & TALENT SUPPORT

Casting Director - Auditions and hires actors. Works closely with the director and producer.

Chaperone / Child Wrangler - Legally required supervisor for underage actors. Keeps children safe and managed.

12. POST-PRODUCTION (AFTER FILMING)

Editor - Assembles the film from raw footage. Works closely with the director to shape story and pace.

Assistant Editor - Organises footage, syncs sound, manages file workflow.

Colourist - Adjusts colour, brightness, and contrast to create the film’s final visual tone.

Sound Designer - Adds or enhances sound effects, ambience, and textures.

Foley Artist - Records everyday physical sounds (footsteps, doors, etc.) for realism.

Composer - Writes and produces the film’s music score.

13. OTHER SUPPORT ROLES

Unit Publicist - Handles press kits, set photography, and public-facing material.

Catering / Craft Services - Prepares meals and provides snacks for cast and crew.

Medic / Set Nurse - Provides on-set first aid and health support.

Security - Protects the set, controls crowds, and manages privacy.

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If you have any questions about anything or need any clarification, don't hesitate to reach out

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