On The Set

As you become more experienced, you will be kept on the set to work instead of being the designated errand-runner.
What are the most important things to remember on set?
• At least one PA on set (where you can be seen by the First AD) at all times. Also, if you are assigned to be on set and you have to leave, get an OK from the Key PA, Second AD or First AD and make sure you replace yourself.
• Be aware of where the camera is pointed and if the scene is being filmed so you can stay out of the shot.
• Listen to your walkie so you know what is going on. If the camera is rolling and sound is being recorded, turn down your walkie.
• Remember to keep you opinions to yourself, especially on set.
• The First AD runs the set; when you bring something (or an actor) to set, always tell the First AD.
• Arrive on location (or at the stage) prepared to do the hardest work under the most pressure in the first three hours of the shoot day.
• Remember that the time between rolling film is when you are needed most by the AD’s and the crew. All PA’s should report to set when you hear any of the following: “Checking the gate,” “moving on,” or, our favorite, “That’s a wrap.”
• Keep your cell phone or pager on vibrate whenever you are on a set, even when no sound is being recorded. Any extraneous noise can be distracting.
• Two or more PA’s standing around talking or hanging around the trucks means something isn’t getting done. If you’re not sure what to do, review the Shoot Day Checklist or ask Production.
Why did that crewmember tell me I’m not allowed to help him?
On a union shoot, union members cannot allow non-union personnel (i.e. people in production) to do certain things. There is no concise way of telling you what is and isn’t OK, since every shoot is a little bit different.
Why does the crew get to eat first?
Like so many other seemingly unfair things about hierarchy , this one is about money. The crew is being paid on the clock until the last crew member goes through the food line. It’s our responsibility to make sure that that happens as soon as possible. Also, be prepared to eat fast, you may not be able to get as long a break as the crew.

When do I get to go home?
The truth is that, by definition, Production personnel are the first to get there and the last to leave. Always keep in mind that you will do the hardest work in the first three hours of the day, around lunch time and after camera wrap. Always check with both the AD’s and the Production Manager or Coordinator before going home.


We all make mistakes. Especially in film production, things are happening so quickly and there are so many things, mistakes are bound to happen. The sign of a good production person is not whether or not you make a mistake (although we do try to avoid them altogether) but how you handle it once a mistake is made. It is more important to “own up” if something happens (deal with the butterflies) and see what can be done to correct the problem as quickly and efficiently as possible.

Please send your feedback to palmerx1964@mac.com