Getting You A Job in:
The TV and Film Industry
The Guide to getting you a job in the TV and Film Industry
Runner
Researcher
What is the job
What is the job
The term ‘Runner’ was coined in the film industry and it is recognised as a key entry level role. Runners help everything to run smoothly and provide a range of support in every area of film production. On big budget features there may be several Runners: Production Office Runners, Floor Runners, and usually one Runner assigned to each of the main departments - sound, camera, art dept and editing.
Pay and Conditions
The average starting salary is approximately £7-£8 per hour. Pay is low and there is little reason for it to increase because competition for paid runner positions is fierce. Most runners work on a freelance basis and are employed on full-time, short-term contracts. Short-term contracts and long hours can have lifestyle and financial implications. Working hours tend to be long and unpredictable, often up to six days a week during production. Broadcasting is a 24-hour operation and the working style reflects this. The job can be quite stressful. but the work is fast-moving and can be exciting, stimulating and diverse, with plenty of variety.
Career Entry Routes
Getting a position as a runner is often a combination of luck, timing and networking. The industry looks favorably on those with experience and contacts, rather than qualifications. A relevant HND, degree or postgraduate qualification, particularly one with a practical focus, may increase your chances of success as this can equip you with an understanding of the industry but is not needed, You will need to show evidence of the following: excellent communication and interpersonal skills, physical stamina and resilience, initiative and the ability to problem solve; flexibility and the ability to think on your feet; good research skills; excellent time management and organisational skills; team-working skills; enthusiasm and motivation; ability to remain calm under pressure.
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Editor What is the job A film or video editor is responsible for assembling recorded raw material into a finished product suitable for broadcasting. The material may consist of camera footage, dialogue, sound effects, graphics and special effects. This is a key role in the post-production process and the editor’s skill can determine the quality and delivery of the final product. The editor may be part of a team and they will usually work closely with the director to achieve the desired end result.
Pay and Conditions
The majority of film/video editors are employed on a freelance basis, working on short-term contracts for post-production studios, television companies and corporate employers. Editors may work on a variety of productions including feature films, television programmes, music videos, corporate training videos or commercials. Range of typical starting salaries: £18,000-£25,000 for those employed by a television or post-production studio. This is not typically an entry level/graduate job; entrants start at a lower-paid level, which can be around the national minimum wage, working as runners and then assistant editors before reaching this post.
Career Entry Routes Entry without a degree or HND is possible but applicants must show commitment and determination to enter the industry. Courses offering film/media production experience may be advantageous. Pre-entry experience is extremely important and you will need to show evidence of having worked on film/video production or postproduction within or outside your degree, preferably via an up-todate and well-prepared showreel.
Director What is the job The Director is the driving creative force in a film’s production, and acts 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 - he or she must visualise and define the style and structure of the film, then act as both a storyteller and team leader to bring this vision to reality. Directors’ main duties include casting, script editing, shot composition, shot selection and editing.
Pay and Conditions Directors must have exceptional artistic vision and creative skills to develop an engaging and original film. Unerring commitment and a deep passion for filmmaking are essential, along with the ability to act as a strong and confident leader. Directors must constantly make decisions, but must also be able to delegate, and to collaborate with others. Excellent communication and interpersonal skills are vital to get the best from the filmmaking team. The average pay for a director on a daily basis is £325 and per production it is £55,150.
Career Entry Routes
While there are numerous training courses and reference books on directing, formal qualifications are not necessary to become a Director. Studying the art and craft of directing is important, but the role can only really be mastered through in-depth practical experience. Writing a screenplay, directing one’s own short film or an amateur play, are all good starting places. Extensive industry experience is also crucial to this role; up-to-date knowledge of filmmaking techniques and equipment is vital, as is learning how to work with actors to create a performance.
Floor
Manager
What is the job Television floor managers ensure that sets, props and technical equipment are safe, ready to use and in the right position prior to filming. They have a liaising and coordinating role, acting as the link between the director and the many people involved in a production. It is the floor manager’s responsibility to pass on cues to presenters and guests to ensure timings are met and the broadcast goes smoothly. The floor manager ensures that events go according to a set plan and that people taking part know their particular roles and how it fits in with whatever else is happening
Pay and Conditions The majority of floor managers work on a freelance basis and salaries can be paid on an hourly, daily or weekly rate. A freelance floor manager will usually earn around £150 per eight-hour day but it may be possible to earn up to £400 in a day. the range of typical starting salaries are £16,000 - £22,000.
Career Entry Routes Pre-entry experience is essential. Floor managers may have previous theatre experience but are more likely to have worked in television and gained experience either as a runner or assistant floor manager, or in a technical sound or lighting role. In order to realistically compete for jobs, several years of broadcasting experience is necessary. Candidates will need to show evidence of the following: the ability to foresee, solve and avoid problems under pressure; a friendly disposition and an air of calm authority; excellent communication skills to receive, interpret and convey information accurately and concisely; interpersonal skills, in order to quickly judge how to get the best out of different people; good organisational skills and the ability to multitask.
Location Manager What is the job Location managers are responsible for making all the practical arrangements for film or photographic shoots taking place outside the studio. Productions are made in a wide range of places and location managers need to research, identify and organise access to appropriate sites. As well as arranging and negotiating site use, the role usually includes managing sites throughout the shooting process. This involves working to strict budgetary and time limits and maintaining a high standard of health and safety and security. The demands of organising crews and dealing with a range of people make this an intense and varied role.
Pay and Conditions
Rates of pay vary widely, depending on experience, your reputation within the industry and the type of production. Location managers working on major television dramas or feature films can expect to earn more than those working on low-budget productions. Most location managers work as freelancers and are paid on a contract basis.
Career Entry Routes
Entry without an academic qualification is common, but all applicants should be able to demonstrate knowledge of and commitment to the media industry. Doing a course that involves film or media production experience may be useful, but it is important to ensure that courses offer appropriate training. Candidates will need to show evidence of the following skills: excellent communication skills; a diplomatic approach, to encourage or persuade people as the situation demands; dependability and excellent organisational, planning and administrative skills; the ability to problem-solve and think laterally; artistic/creative awareness and competence as a photographer; stamina and flexibility in order to work long hours under pressure; a full driving licence and preferably ownership of a vehicle.
Director Of Photography
What is the job
Directors of Photography (DoPs) are key Heads of Department on film productions, and theirs is one of the major creative roles. They are requested by the Director, and must be approved by the financiers, studio and/or completion bond company. DoPs work closely with the Director and Production Designer to give a film its visual signature. Lighting is one of the fundamental elements in filmmaking. The ability of cinema to entertain and emotionally move an audience is the result of a highly collaborative process which encompasses performance, editing and music. The role of the Director of Photography or Cinematographer is to provide a film with its unique visual identity, or look. Most DoPs work on commercials and promos as well as on feature films
Pay and Conditions
The basic requirement for DoPs is a good technical knowledge of photo-chemical and digital processes and camera equipment. Indepth knowledge of lighting techniques, and how to achieve them, is essential. A combination of practical, technical and creative expertise is required. The average pay per production £63,631 and the average pay per day rates are £500
Career Entry Routes
The majority of DoPs study film and/or photography to degree level or higher. Camera Operators often progress to becoming DoPs by carrying out second unit work, although there is no set route. Less frequently they may progress from the Lighting Department. Becoming a DoP can be a long and arduous process, but the eventual rewards are great. Although experience of working on short or student films can provide a good introduction to feature film production, the on-set hierarchy and traditions of working as part of a camera crew can only be learned by experience.
Camera Operator What is the job Camera Operators perform a vital role within the camera department on feature films. They support the Director of Photography (DoP or DP), and the Director, by accurately carrying out their instructions regarding shot composition and development. The seamless ease with which the camera moves is key to the narrative flow of feature films, and is the Camera Operators’ responsibility. They are usually the first people to use the camera’s eye piece to assess how all the elements of performance, art direction, lighting, composition and camera movement come together to create the cinematic experience.
Pay and Conditions
Camera operators often work on a freelance basis. Rates of pay for freelance television camera operators vary according to the type of production. the going rate for camera operators working a ten-hour day on TV factual/documentary programmes is £285; for commercials £411; and for TV news £227.
Career Entry Routes
Most Camera Operators begin their careers as Camera Trainees or Runners, progressing to 2nd AC and, as they gain more experience, to 1st AC. Throughout this progression, they must build upon their experience, and achieve a high level of competence when operating a variety of cameras. Once this level of expertise and experience has
Sound
Designer What is the job Sound Designers are responsible for providing any required sounds to accompany screen action. Most Sound Designers are experienced Supervising Sound Editors who carry out a managerial role, steering the work of the entire sound post production process, combined with the specialist role of creating the sound concept for films. As well as creating the sounds for giant explosions or car crashes, Sound design is also the art of creating subtle sounds that enrich the language and feeling of a film.
Sound Editor What is the job
Foley/Sound Editors are responsible for the post-synchronised sound effects on a film sound track that are added during the sound editing process, excluding any special sounds which are usually created by the Sound Effects Editor or Sound Designer. “Foley” is normally defined as sounds related to movements, whether pertaining to a character or an object (footsteps, fights, fist banging on a door), or to the result of an object’s movement (pouring wine, shards of glass falling from a broken window). Named after Jack Foley (an innovative pioneer of the art at Universal Studios), Foley is recorded in specialised sound studios working to projected pictures
Pay and Conditions As well as a genuine enthusiasm for sound and film, Sound Designers must have a good understanding of acoustics, and an expert knowledge of sound recording and editing techniques (analogue and digital). Key Skills include: Excellent aural skills, Creativity and imagination, Ability to work conceptually, Excellent communication skills, Ability to work under pressure to tight, changing deadlines, Organisational and financial skills, Knowledge of the requirements of the relevant Health and Safety legislation and procedures.
Career Entry Routes
All Sound Designers start out as sound enthusiasts and have usually spent years recording and experimenting with everyday sounds before entering the industry. Since Sound Design is a highly competitive area, even the most highly qualified industry entrants must be prepared to start in junior roles. They usually progress from being Runners in Picture or Sound cutting rooms, or in Audio Post Production Facilities houses, to becoming Assistant Re-Recording Mixers or Assistant Sound Editors providing back-up to experienced Sound Editors.
Pay and Conditions
Foley Editors must have excellent knowledge of acoustics, and sound recording and audio post production processes (analogue and digital). Key Skills include: Ability to manipulate and work sound for the moving image, Excellent aural skills, Excellent visual skills, Ability to work efficiently under pressure, Excellent communication skills, Good organisational skills, Ability to work to strict deadlines, Knowledge of the requirements of the relevant Health and Safety legislation and procedures
Career Entry Routes Foley Editors are usually graduates of Arts, Music, Electronics, Maths, or Sound Technology courses, who have also specialised in Sound at post-graduate level. Sound is one of the best served areas for film and television training in the UK with provision ranging from specialised short courses, to qualifications at HND, BA and post graduate levels.
Sound Mixer
What is the job Production Sound Mixers are responsible for the difficult job of ensuring that dialogue recorded during filming is suitably clear. Although much of the storytelling and the emotional impact of a script are conveyed through dialogue, most film sets are challenging environments for Mixers because there are often unwanted noises to deal with, or the required camera shots hamper the placing of microphones.
Pay and Conditions Production Sound Mixers must have a good understanding of electronics and an expert knowledge of acoustics and all sound recording, playback and editing equipment (analogue and digital). They must understand the requirements of the other departments on feature films, including: Camera, Rigging, Art Department, Wardrobe, Hair and Make-Up. They should also be aware of, and comply with, on set protocols. Production Sound Mixers must be computer literate.
Sound Recordist What is the job
Sound Recordists record sound on location or in a studio, usually in synchronisation with the camera, to enable the highest quality ‘real’ sound to be recorded at the time of filming/recording. They monitor the quality of the sound recording through headphones, and work closely with the Director, Boom Operator and sometimes the Sound Editor, often using multiple microphones. They are also responsible for setting up talkback communication between production staff, presenters and artistes and other communication systems such as ‘live’ links by land line, microwave link or satellite. They also record sound effects and atmosphere tracks.
Pay and Conditions
A major part of the job of a Sound Recordist/Production Mixer is the ability to work as part of a team. Many of the skills needed for this role involve enabling the team to work as efficiently and effectively as possible, and must include the willingness and ability to compromise. Despite the need to record high quality sound in often difficult circumstances, the Sound Recordist must understand that perfection is not always possible, and that the needs of the team come first.
Career Entry Routes
Career Entry Routes The majority of Production Sound Mixers train in sound recording but start working in the industry at junior levels as Sound Trainees. This period of on-the-job training lasts approximately two years before Sound Trainees are ready to become Sound Assistants. Working with equipment manufacturers or hire companies can also provide the opportunity to learn about sound equipment and to make useful industry contacts.
The most important starting point for a career in Sound is to develop and demonstrate an interest in sound by exploring, experimenting and learning about audio technology and its capabilities. Sound personnel usually start in a trainee role and work their way upwards. On-the-job training or shadowing of more experienced personnel is the best way to learn. Experience of working in the industry, provides a useful background for this role. Working with equipment manufacturers or hire companies can also provide valuable experience and training, and is a good way of learning about sound equipment, making industry contacts, and getting a foot in the door.
Producer What is the job
Producers are highly self-motivated individuals, who have the final responsibility for all aspects of a film’s production. There are so many ways of being a Producer. Very often the Producer is the first person to become involved in a project, even before the writer, or they may be the agent-style Producer who focuses on the deal. Generally though, the Producer shepherds the film from inception to completion and beyond, starting long before the film-making process and continuing to talk about and sell the picture long after everyone else has gone on to other projects. Â Top film makers work with the same people over and over again, which is why it is important for those who wish to make a career in the Production Office to gain respect by being a reliable, trustworthy and enthusiastic Production Assistant or Runner.
Pay and Conditions
Producers must be good businessmen, strategists, motivators, negotiators and creative visionaries, with the ability to spot and deal with potential problems before they materialise. They need an extensive knowledge of cinematic narrative and a thorough understanding of all the creative processes of filmmaking as they are in ultimate control of the overall planning of the production including sales and distribution. The Producer’s responsibility for the project continues for as long as the film is shown globally. The average pay per production for a producer is £34,794
Career Entry Routes
There are no set qualifications for the grade of Producer - however, as the head of a team of both accounting and creative personnel, the Producer has to have an extensive understanding of the nature of film production as well as a strong grasp of business and financial issues. He/she must have experience of working in the film industry, preferably as part of the Production Team
Executive Producer What is the job
Executive Producers are responsible for the overall quality control of productions, and for ensuring that final products conform to commissioners’ specifications. They are part of the team who are responsible for selecting marketable projects and ensuring that every step is taken to guarantee success in the market. They lead the production of a range of television programmes, including dramas, serial dramas, documentaries, drama documentaries, etc. Commissioners who work for broadcasters are often credited as Executive Producers. On some productions the Executive Producer role may be combined with that of Line Producer, so that as well as procuring the funding, they are also responsible for monitoring its use during production.
Pay and Conditions
Executive Producers need creative flair and a commitment to quality programming, combined with financial acumen. They must be able to assess projects for their marketability and potential audience appeal. They need practical knowledge of financial, legal and regulatory requirements. They should be exceptionally good networkers, and people managers. They must be able to prioritise effectively across a number of projects, managing their time and resources according to each production’s requirements, and delegating work to suitably qualified personnel.
Career Entry Routes
Although no specific educational or training qualifications are required for the role of Executive Producer, a degree in a media related or specialist subject may provide some useful background knowledge. Wide experience in and knowledge of the production process is essential. Some courses aimed at experienced producers, e.g. those run by UK MEDIA offer training in co-production, developing networks and partnerships, pitching, and other topics.
Line
Producer What is the job
The Line Producer is one of the first people to be employed on a film’s production by the Producer and Executive Producers. Line Producers are rarely involved in the development of the project, but often play a crucial role in costing the production in order to provide investors with the confidence to invest in the project. The Line Producer supervises the preparation of the film’s budget, and the day-to-day planning and running of the production. Line Producers are usually employed on a freelance basis. Career advancement is based on their experience and reputation.
Pay and Conditions
Line Producers must possess an in-depth knowledge of scheduling and budgeting, and of all the physical and technical processes of filmmaking. They must command the respect of the production crew. as they need diplomacy to balance the creative expectations of the creative personnel with the financial resources available. They always need to plan for the worst, whilst being able to inspire others to excel in their work. They are required to carry out risk assessments according to regulatory requirements. They must therefore know how to identify the hazards in the production environment, to assess the level of risk, to recommend action, and to carry out a review of their assessment. The average salary per production is £52,125
Career Entry Routes
No qualifications can prepare anyone completely for this hugely demanding role. Line Producers must have considerable industry experience, which can only be acquired by working for a number of years in film, television and/or commercial production. Individuals usually progress to the role of Line Producer by working their way through a variety of roles in Assistant Direction, Location Management and/or the Production Office. Many start their careers as Runners or Production Assistants. Line Producers must also attend the required Health & Safety courses.
Designer What is the job
Production Designers are major heads of department on film crews, and are responsible for the entire Art Department. They play a crucial role in helping Directors to achieve the film’s visual requirements, and in providing Producers with carefully calculated schedules which offer viable ways of making films within agreed budgets and specified periods of time. Filming locations may range from an orderly Victorian parlour, to a late-night café, to the interior of an alien space ship. The look of a set or location is vital in drawing the audience into the story, and is an essential element in making a film convincing and evocative. A great deal of work and imagination goes into constructing an appropriate backdrop to any story, and into selecting or constructing appropriate locations and/or sets.
Pay and Conditions
Production Designers must have expert knowledge of many art and design related subjects including draughtsmanship, technical drawing, colour theory, architecture, building and construction, history of design, interior design, cameras and lenses, lighting, etc. Production Designers must also have full knowledge of computer budgeting software and computer aided design programmes (CADS).
Career Entry Routes
As the head of the largest department on a film crew, Production Designers must have extensive experience gained over a number of years, usually by progressing through the various Art Department. They may also have a background of working in theatre, where they learn the art of set design and construction as well as how to conceptualise ideas and create a sense of drama through visual spectacle. Graduates who have studied Film and Theatre Design may also gain experience working on short films before progressing to junior roles on feature films.
Information From Creativeskillset.org Prospectus.ac.uk