THE CASTING OFFICE, INC.

So you've decided to dive into the magical word of making movies?! Beyond the glitz and glamour of Hollywood filmmaking is a tight knit world of talented professionals who work long hours contributing their respective mastery of  craft and art to a film production. These departments range from Directors, Producers, Writers, Camera, Talent, Costumes, Hair, Makeup, Sound, Lights, etc. While the scalability of a film set is contingent on the format of the project (ie: feature film, tv series, short film, etc) in general, film sets operate similar to a bee hive: with "basecamp" at the epicenter and each department designated their own area to manage their workload and often moving at warp speed from crew call to wrap. While there's a great deal of industry lingo and terminology used on set, it can be quite overwhelming for folks who are reporting for their first time to the fast pace of a filming environment, so here's some insight to help you navigate like a pro!

Typically the night before you are scheduled to film, will receive your report time and location address along with other necessary info, always confirm this with whomever sent you the Call Sheet. Upon arrival to set you will be directed to check in with a Production Assistant. If you are a principal performer you will be directed to your trailer, and if you are a background performer keep a lookout for directional signs to "background holding". For all performers, you must bring TWO forms of ID (Driver’s License, Passport, SS card, or Military ID) for completion of on set paperwork. Bring your medications, snacks, a blanket, something to do quietly while you wait (a book, crossword puzzle, etc) and comfortable shoes (ie: slippers, or slip on boots to keep your feet warm while not filming). Please leave all valuables at home. Production is not responsible for any lost or stolen items. **Additionally, personal cameras and or recording devices are strictly prohibited near filming.

Be sure to park in the designated area: for Principals park in CAST and Extras park in Extras/Background Parking. Parking information and maps will be included in emails prior to your work day(s). Typically shows post directional signs with arrows directing you to set and where to park. After parking, please proceed to the designated holding area provided for extras. Remain in holding so that you are ready to work when you are needed.

Typically snacks may be available upon arrival (ie: via the craft services table), but productions are only required to provide you with a 'meal' every six hours. Water should always be available. 

ALWAYS show up early! In film, “early” is on time! 

There can be hundreds of people working simultaneously on a feature film or television set. It may seem like too many are just standing around, but each has a specific job to perform at a specific time, all with one goal in mind: make the project as efficiently as possible. The following will help you avoid film set faux pas, and be ready to do your own job.

It is such fun to be on set, but it is a job that requires a respectful, attentive, professional attitude. 

Outlined in your booking information email. This includes 2 ID’s necessary for completion of your paperwork, and/or clothes pressed/steamed in a garment bag requested by the wardrobe department. 

to the Assistant Directors. The Assistant Directors (the AD Dept) are responsible for making sure everything happens efficiently. Whether it’s an AD, or a Production Assistant (PA), someone will guide you from holding to set, and give you cues. Please listen, and follow all of their directions.

"to hurry up and wait". As soon as you show up, you’ll be checked in, taken to or approved by Wardrobe, checked by make-up and hair, then you may be taken quickly to set or may find yourself waiting in holding for hours. Keep in mind: waiting is a big part of the job. It is recommended to bring something to do quietly while you wait in holding (a book, crossword puzzle, newspaper, etc).

of the principal actors, and all crew working on set. While it's exciting to be standing next to big stars, please be respectful, and remember that if they are on set, they are at work, just like you. Please do not ask for photographs or autographs. (It is ok to say hello, of course, but please be aware that they most likely won't be able to get into lengthy conversations.) Everyone is here to work. 

Typically, there will be a designated area for Extras to wait referred to as "Extras Holding". Please remain in holding unless told otherwise. There could be long periods of waiting, but when the time comes you need to be ready. If you leave the designated area, whether it’s going to your car or to use the bathroom, please inform the extras wrangler or PA. Once you arrive on set and check in, you cannot leave set before an Assistant Director releases you. If you do, the film does not have to pay you. When you check out with an AD, they will give you a copy of the signed voucher that will be your evidence of work if you are paid incorrectly.  Please note, no vaping, smoking, or consumption of alcohol is permitted while on set.