Unwritten Rules on Set You Need to Know
The first day on set can be both exciting and stressful. To help you avoid embarrassment and missteps, we’ve prepared some basic unwritten rules to help you fit in with the team.
Understand the Hierarchy
Every shoot has a team hierarchy, and understanding it will help you navigate better. The director, producers, and department heads have the final say, so listen to them and respect their decisions. For example, if you’re interning as a grip and unsure about setting up the lighting, consult the cameraman or camera supervisor, not the director.
When addressing supervisors, be concise and clear. If you need to report a technical problem, be specific about what is happening and suggest possible solutions. If you’re unsure how to do something, don’t hesitate to ask. Clarifying expectations can prevent misunderstandings and unnecessary mistakes.
Even if you have strong opinions or ideas, be mindful of your position. For instance, if you are a production assistant, resist the urge to offer directorial advice unless asked.
Behave Professionally
As an intern, you want to make a good impression. Maintain a positive attitude during the shoot, even in stressful situations. For example, if a technical problem causes a delay, stay calm and focus on finding solutions rather than expressing frustration. A positive attitude and a willingness to help during crises are greatly appreciated.
What happens on set stays on set. Avoid public discussion of the filming process. If you know who won your favorite reality show, keep that information under wraps until the finale airs on TV. Similar rules apply to social media. Think twice before posting anything. If you’re tempted to share behind-the-scenes photos, make sure you have permission from the producers. Avoid posting anything that might reveal plot details, show progress, or disrupt the production process.
Adapt to Changes
Plans often change, especially on reality show shoots. If a situation or filming location changes, respond quickly and without comment. The director or story producer has their reasons for the change. As CME Content Academy founder Tuwiah Neustadt says, “Content is king,” so flexibility is important.
When problems arise, focus on solving them. For example, if an actor’s outfit is dirty, work with the costume department to fix it quickly instead of panicking. If you’re new to the set, observe how experienced crew members handle changes and follow their lead.
Know Your Role
Always be clear about your role. Ensure that your supervisor’s expectations align with your understanding of your position. If you’re unsure about something, don’t hesitate to ask for help. During your CME Content Academy internship, you will experience many roles, so it’s important to know how you can be helpful and contribute. The unwritten rule is to make others’ jobs easier, not harder.
Build Relationships
We often see our colleagues more during a shoot than we see our families. Good relationships are crucial. Don’t be intimidated – be friendly and don’t shy away from socializing. Treat everyone with respect regardless of their role. If you meet someone on set that you admire professionally, try approaching them for mentorship and advice. As a CME Content Academy student, you have access to a wide variety of professionals, so use every moment to further your education.
CME Content Academy, a project of TV Nova and TV Markiza, provides practical training alongside theoretical lectures at the Television Institute. The aim is to educate the next generation of TV professionals and enable them to work with these leading TV companies.
-Kristina Sverkunová