Get to Know Your Video Production Company on Set: The Production Manager

As production manager on set, your role requirements change depending on the scale and type of project. Yesterday I was on set for a car advert shoot. It was a medium-scale production which meant I had to wear several hats e.g. assistant director, floor manager, production coordinator and general “extra pair of hands”. Essentially, make sure everything is running smoothly at all times of the day and don’t be afraid to do the undesirable jobs.

The first task of the day is to ensure that all crew have arrived safe and sound and most importantly, on time. As soon as they begin, keep them motivated to get set up and started because time lost at the start of the day will haunt you throughout. Our crew are always excited about the day ahead, so thankfully, this is never a difficult task. However, if you get crew who float around, asking about coffees and catching up with people, remember that you are paying them to be here and do a job. You’re a nice boss, but a boss nonetheless.

From there you have to check on your clients – the other end of the spectrum. They are often excited, curious and nervous as to how the day will pan out, so remember to always keep them updated throughout the day, explain what the crew are currently doing and check in to show them that everything is still running smoothly. They are investing their time and money, so putting their minds at ease and keeping them in the loop is essential.

Always look after your crew. They are there to work hard and to create the best project possible, part of your job is to ensure that they are always safe and cared for. Make sure they get their breaks. If working outside, such as yesterday, make sure they get time in the shade, have proper protection and meals regularly. No job is worth killing yourself over and happy workers are hard workers.

Towards the end of the day, the scheduling becomes even more vital because time means money! Pushing back a wrap time means crew will charge overtime, and more often than not, the location has restrictions of timings as well. As well as overtime, crew start to fade away after working for such a long time so your footage could see the effects of this. This information should be flagged with the client during pre-production, but if things start to go south or additional requests are made on the day, then remind them of any additional costs. Never send anyone an invoice with a figure they weren’t expecting.

The thank yous. At the end of the day it should all be hugs and kisses. Everyone pulled their weight and gathered an amazing load of footage. Nobody is ever too good for please and thank you’s (be wary of anyone who thinks they are) and who doesn’t like a hug at the end of a hard day! Now onto the fun bit – editing the thing!

Enjoy watching another one of our car promotional videos.