A Diverse Onsite Video Production Crew

The crews I create for business photography, and video assignments are always cross trained in more than one specialty. The projects I manage are typically more fluid in nature, and I need a crew that is willing to take on unexpected tasks. For example, if an extra person is required to hold a reflector, my makeup artist may take up that task. If the crew needs help setting up some lights, I will jump in and assist. Moreover, when it is time to strike our set, we all jump in to pack it up with a smile.

Recently we had a Boston video assignment with the following production team:

• Director of Photography - Scott

• Camera Operator - Mike

• Sound Engineer - Nonni

• Grip - Isaac

• Makeup Artist - MaryElle

• One client and 8 actors

That is the traditional lineup. With a flexible crew our Camera Operator Mike was a big part of the creative discussions with myself and our client. Also, our Sound Engineer Nonni and Grip Isaac switch roles at times since they are both experienced with sound and being a grip.

During our second scene, we decided to add a 3rd camera, and Grip Isaac became the 3rd Camera Operator. Setting up a 3rd camera was a decision made at that time and gave us more diversity with what we wanted to accomplish. Having a crew that is flexible allowed us to shift his focus to being a camera operator.

This flexibility makes it possible to shift gears within an assignment if needed and to make it happen rather quickly. When you are creating your next business video project, keep in mind that a larger team may not always be necessary to create your corporate video. A smaller crew that is diverse in their experience and enjoys working as a team can create a successful video assignment.