What Really Happens on Set? - Part 2

Part 2: On the Job!

So the day on set has finally arrived, no doubt you are feeling excited, but maybe a little nervous! Here are a few tips to get you through the nerves and into feeling confident and ready to tackle your first job.

You should plan to arrive approximately 10-15 minutes before your call time and find the contact person as listed for you on the call sheet or booking confirmation. Occasionally the production can be running behind schedule and you could be asked to wait. This is when the colouring books or iPad's come in handy! Other times the production crew will be ready and waiting for you and your child.

There are usually lots of people on set who keep production going behind the scenes and they are usually set-up in separate trailers a short distance away from the actual set so not to interrupt any filming in progress with noise or movement. 

You will be introduced to the location nurse who is there to look after the wellbeing of underage talent by making sure they are safe, taking breaks at allocated times and have something to eat and drink. Your contact person will also make sure that someone from the ‘Wardrobe’ or ‘Costume’ department knows that you have arrived. They will either choose from the outfits you brought by request or have items ready to try on. Parents can help their child get dressed if necessary. On some shoots, children might also be required to go through ‘Hair and Make-up’. In general minimal make-up will be applied and sometimes none at all for children.

Soon it will be time to make your way to the actual set for filming. With younger children, parents are always allowed to stay close by or within sight, but it is important to be aware of your surroundings and not get in anyones way. 

Here are a few general rules when on set:

• Make sure you turn your phone off! 

• Do not talk or move around once the director calls ACTION until after they have called CUT.

• Do not try and tell your child what to do from the sidelines. Let the director (or whoever is working with them) direct your child.

If you do have any questions or concerns, speak to the person who has been assigned to look after you and your child on set.

Your child may film everything that is required for the day in one go or there might be a few breaks when you will be looking after them and need to keep them occupied. Snacks are often supplied and if filming has been scheduled over a meal time then you might both sit down with cast and crew and enjoy the Catering on location.

When your child has finished work (often referred to as being ‘wrapped’) the crew person in charge will let you know and you will need to sign out for the day. Take note of the time you have finished so you can let our casting department know. 

Once you have been told you can leave, collect all of your belongings and be sure to thank the crew and the people who have looked after you.

Here are a few additional tips:

Be positive! It’s nice for the crew to have someone around who is happy, easy going and helps make the day run smoothly, and they may be more likely to ask you and your child back for future projects.

Try to stay away from gossip about agents/money/other people in the industry. This can reflect badly on yourself, your child or your agency. 

Try not to bring any extra siblings or family members on set.

HAVE FUN! Enjoy the experience!