20 Unwritten Rules About Film and Television Production
Film and television production is a collaborative and highly demanding field where creativity and technical skills converge. While formal procedures and industry standards guide the process, there are also numerous unwritten rules that seasoned professionals follow to ensure smooth operations and successful outcomes. Whether you’re a director, producer, crew member, or actor, understanding these unwritten rules can help navigate the often chaotic world of production.
1. Be Prepared for the Unexpected
In film and television production, things rarely go according to plan. Equipment breaks, actors forget lines, and weather conditions change unexpectedly. Always be prepared for the unexpected and stay flexible.
2. Respect the Schedule
Timeliness is crucial in production. A film or TV show runs on a tight schedule, and delays can affect the entire crew and production. Respecting call times, rehearsals, and deadlines is essential to keeping everything on track.
3. Never Underestimate the Power of a Good Crew
A successful production relies on the hard work and expertise of the entire crew. Whether you’re working in lighting, sound, or makeup, always remember that every department is integral to the project’s success.
4. The Director is the Visionary, But Collaboration is Key
While the director has the final say on the creative vision, collaboration is essential. Every department has valuable input, and the best productions happen when everyone works together to bring the director’s vision to life.
5. Do Your Homework
Whether you’re an actor preparing for a role or a crew member learning the ropes, do your homework. Know your lines, understand your responsibilities, and research the subject matter of the production to ensure you’re fully prepared.
6. Keep a Positive Attitude
Production can be stressful, but maintaining a positive and solution-oriented attitude is key to keeping morale high. A positive environment fosters creativity and helps everyone stay motivated, even when things go wrong.
7. Don’t Make Unnecessary Noise on Set
Set etiquette is important for maintaining focus and concentration. Keep noise to a minimum during filming. Only speak when necessary, and avoid distractions that can disrupt the shot or take away from the director’s instructions.
8. Anticipate What’s Needed
A good crew member anticipates what the team will need before they ask. Whether it’s adjusting lighting, preparing props, or assisting the director, thinking ahead can save time and improve efficiency on set.
9. Always Have a Backup Plan
Murphy’s Law—”Anything that can go wrong will go wrong”—is especially true in film and television production. Always have a backup plan in place for technical issues, location problems, or last-minute actor absences.
10. Know Your Limits
Whether you’re an actor or a crew member, it’s important to know your physical and creative limits. Don’t take on tasks beyond your skill level or overextend yourself. If you’re not sure about something, ask for help or guidance.
11. Respect the Hierarchy
In film and television production, respect for the chain of command is important. Understand the roles of each person on set, from the director and producers to the grips and production assistants. Everyone has a part to play.
12. Keep Communication Clear and Concise
Effective communication is vital on set. Directors, actors, and crew need to be able to communicate their needs clearly and quickly, especially when working under pressure. Avoid unnecessary jargon and be direct.
13. Dress for the Job
On set, the way you dress can communicate your level of professionalism and readiness. Be sure to wear appropriate attire based on the job you’re doing, keeping practicality and comfort in mind.
14. Always Have Patience
The production process can be long and demanding. Patience is essential, whether you’re waiting for a scene to be reset, rehearsing a difficult shot, or dealing with last-minute changes. Stay calm and composed throughout the process.
15. Understand the Importance of Lighting
Good lighting can make or break a shot. Lighting technicians are often unsung heroes on set, but their work is crucial in setting the tone and mood for the entire production. Always respect their work and give them the time they need to get the lighting just right.
16. Make Safety a Priority
On set, safety should always come first. Whether it’s during stunts, handling equipment, or managing special effects, always follow safety guidelines to protect yourself and your colleagues. Accidents can delay production and jeopardize everyone’s well-being.
17. Keep the Budget in Mind
Filmmaking is expensive, and budgets are often tight. Be mindful of the costs involved in each decision, whether it’s using resources efficiently or avoiding unnecessary extras that can stretch the budget.
18. Respect Time and Energy
Everyone on set is working long hours, often under stressful conditions. Respect people’s time and energy by keeping unnecessary delays to a minimum and maintaining a professional attitude throughout the production.
19. Don’t Skip Rehearsals
Rehearsals are critical for ensuring that actors, camera crews, and other departments are in sync. Even if it feels redundant or you’re in a hurry, skipping rehearsal can lead to mistakes during the actual filming process.
20. Always Stay Humble
No matter how big or small your role in the production is, humility goes a long way. Whether you’re an A-list actor or a production assistant, show respect to everyone on set. Filmmaking is a team effort, and every contribution is valuable.
The unwritten rules of film and television production help maintain a smooth, collaborative, and efficient environment on set. Understanding and following these rules can foster stronger relationships between cast and crew, enhance productivity, and ensure that the final product is the best it can be. While each production may have its own unique challenges, adhering to these principles will help everyone involved feel valued and contribute to the overall success of the project.
