An active set is a pretty unique environment in comparison to a lot of workplaces, and can be pretty intimidating. It’s easy to feel like you don’t know what’s going on and like you’re always in someone’s way! Familiarizing yourself with the terms, etiquette, and what the other departments are in charge of will help you feel more comfortable as you get to know set life. But first, a few key things to always remember
<aside> 💡 Put your phone on silent! And don’t leave your walkie “open” (volume on without a headset plugged in) while rolling, or near a cast member
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<aside> 💡 Don’t enter (or exit) the studio while the red light is flashing - they’re rolling!
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<aside> 💡 Pay attention - don’t sleep or stay glued to your phone, you never know who’s watching you (like a Producer who might start to wonder why they’re paying you to take a nap...). If you’re a daily, always stay within the line of sight of your Set Supervisor so you can jump in and help if they need you.
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<aside> 💡 Dress for the weather! You must wear closed toe shoes on set, and please make sure they’re comfortable. No one cares what your outfit looks like on set as long as you are able to do your job. Comfortable clothes that you can work in are best.
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The callsheet is a daily document that is shared with the entire crew and acts as the day’s blueprint. The 2nd AD spends most of their day prepping and shopping around the next day’s callsheet, and it is important to let them know of any additional labour or requirements that you need noted. You’ll receive the callsheet to your email address each day after wrap, so if you are a daily don’t fret if you haven’t received it before you go to bed! It’s okay to ask whoever booked you for an estimated call time, as they will have seen the draft callsheet going around.
Also make sure to let the production office know the email address of any daily hires you have coming in so they receive the callsheet when you wrap.
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