1. Task 2: Job Roles In TV And Film
By Matt Holley

2. Camera Operator
(Studio/Outside Broadcast)- TV

Studio/Outside Broadcast Camera Operators ensure that cameras and associated equipment are
rigged for the required set-up. Camera Operators must be able to multi-task, and to
watch, listen and think on their feet while carrying out complex technical tasks. They may have
to supervise Assistants to move the camera, and look for any faults in the cameras and
equipment. Camera Operators may work closely with performers, giving them constructive
advice in order to achieve the required picture composition.
On multi-camera shoots, whether they are Outside Broadcast productions or studio-based
programmes, operators receive instructions from the gallery about where to position the
camera, and how to frame shots and move the camera during the recording. These instructions
may be very precise or merely indicative of the types of shot required, depending on the
production and the Director. Camera Operators must be able to translate these instructions into
carefully framed and composed shots.
On most productions, a team of Camera Operators is led by a Camera Supervisor or Senior
Camera Person, who is responsible for overseeing the work of the other Camera Operators and
any Camera Assistants working on the studio floor or Outside Broadcast location. Programmes
shot by multiple cameras are usually broadcast live, or recorded "as live", and Camera
Operators' work can be very intensive, sometimes stressful, and often exhilarating.

3. Script Supervisor

Script Supervisors' overall responsibility is to monitor whether it is possible for each shot scene to be edited into a verbally and
visually coherent sequence. During pre–production they check the script for any errors and/or inconsistencies, prepare estimated
running times, and break down the script according to production requirements. They develop story synopses and character
breakdowns, and check the shooting schedule to ensure that all the required scenes are shot and adequately covered from all
required angles, distances, etc. They attend recces and pre–production meetings to feedback any identified issues, and during
rehearsals they record detailed timings which inform the shooting schedule. They work closely with Directors to anticipate and
solve any potential problems.
On each day of principal photography, Script Supervisors file reports and photographic records for the previous day's shoot, and
prepare all paperwork for post production. They check continuity requirements for each scene to be shot. During filming they
closely monitor the script to check that no dialogue is overlooked, and cue actors where necessary. They keep detailed continuity
notes and photographs or sketches of each actor and camera position for each shot. They keep detailed records of: all shot timings
and camera movements, including jibs, pans, zooms, etc; whether the scene is shot during the day or at night; any scene changes,
and their implications; all slate and scene number information; any inconsistencies, errors or other comments; all camera details
including lenses, focal distances, filters, etc.
They liaise closely about continuity with other departments including Costume, Make–up and Hair, Props and Lighting. Where
pick up shots are required, Script Supervisors provide actors with dialogue start points, and exact continuity details. They also
ensure that other departments are aware of the status of each shot, and that clapper boards are marked up accordingly. Where
more than one camera is used, they ensure that each camera's output is accurately identified. They confirm Directors' take
preferences and note these for post production. They often assist Sound Mixers in taking additional notes of any recorded wild
tracks or voice–overs. Script Supervisors re–type scripts to reflect any major dialogue changes, and mark up scripts with slate
numbers, cut points, and other relevant details for post production. They prepare detailed Daily Continuity Reports, Editors'
Daily Log Sheets and Daily Production Reports. They also provide production with records of the requirements for any
outstanding shots or inserts.

4. Make-Up and Hair Artist - Film
& TV

Make-up and Hair Artists work on feature films and in television on commercials,
pop promos, corporate productions, light entertainment programmes, documentary
dramas, etc. They are also employed on TV dramas, and feature films working to
Make-up and Hair Designers. Increased multi-skilling in the UK film and television
industries has meant that personnel are required to be proficient in both Make-up
and Hair, and the departments are often merged. Make-up and Hair Artists are
briefed by Make-up and Hair Designers, who provide them with detailed notes,
character and scene breakdowns, and if necessary reference pictures about the
characters they must create. Occasionally they may only receive a rough brief, and
must produce their own script breakdown, and research and create their own design
notes. They work on principal and supporting Actors, and depending on the
schedule, usually look after several Actors throughout the shoot. They are
responsible for maintaining the continuity of their Artists' "look". They must also
carry out full risk assessments, and develop procedures to control risks.