Picture this: you’ve spent years in film school, dreaming of directing the next big hit. You imagine yourself behind the camera, calling the shots, and collaborating with talented crew members. But then, your first real gig on a professional film set is… fetching coffee and setting up chairs.
Welcome to the world of the Production Assistant (PA)!
I know, I know. I was right there with you. Aspiring filmmaker, ready to conquer the film industry, and suddenly I’m learning the ins and outs of walkie-talkie etiquette and how to master the perfect coffee order. Talk about a reality check!
But here’s the thing: despite the initial “is this really what I signed up for?” feeling, being a PA was incredibly valuable. It was a crash course in how a film set operates, the nitty-gritty tasks that keep everything running, and the true meaning of teamwork in filmmaking.
And guess what? You’re about to get the inside scoop. Think of this article as the “PA survival guide” I wish I’d had. We’ll cover everything you need to know: from essential skills to unspoken rules of set etiquette. Because even though you might start with coffee runs, your filmmaking journey begins the moment you step onto set as a PA.
Get ready to learn, work hard, and kickstart your career in film!
The Production Assistant Survival Guide: Everything a Beginner Filmmaker Needs to Know
The PA Paradox: Essential Yet Overlooked
Welcome to the wild world of being a Production Assistant, where you’re simultaneously the backbone of the film crew and…kind of invisible. One minute you’re wrangling extras for a crowd scene, the next you’re sprinting to fetch an obscure prop because someone suddenly realized they need it. It’s the classic PA paradox: you’re absolutely essential, but often feel completely replaceable.
Don’t let this get you down! The way some crew members may treat you doesn’t reflect the reality. Every film set needs its PAs to function. Think of yourself as a filmmaking ninja in training – sometimes you’re doing the grunt work, but you’re also on the frontlines, absorbing how every department operates, from camera and sound to props and costumes.
The trick is to embrace the paradox! Yes, your first few film production assistant jobs might involve lots of “go get” and “can you hold this” tasks. But remember, every coffee run, every walkie-talkie relay, every roll of gaffer’s tape you fetch is teaching you the nuts and bolts of filmmaking. And that knowledge, my friend, is more valuable than any fancy camera lens.
So keep your chin up, your eyes peeled, and get ready to prove that you’re more than just another set of hands. The PA paradox is your testing ground for a fulfilling career in the film industry!
Tips for PA Success
Becoming a great PA is about more than just getting tasks done – it’s about how you carry yourself on set and the skills you develop along the way. Here’s your crash course in PA excellence:
- The Golden Rule: Be Seen, Not Heard – Think of yourself as a silent but efficient ninja. Your job is to get things done without drawing attention to yourself or interrupting the flow of filming. Master the walkie-talkie (there’s a whole code of conduct for that!), move quickly and quietly, and always be aware of your surroundings.
- Attitude is Everything – Film sets are fast-paced and sometimes chaotic. A positive attitude and willingness to tackle any task with a smile make you an invaluable team player. Show up ready to work, eager to learn, and don’t be afraid to shout “I’m on it!” when help is needed.
- Proactive Problem Solving – Anticipate problems before they become disasters. See those water bottles running low? Refill them before anyone’s parched. Is a scene about to wrap up? Start prepping for the next setup. Being a proactive PA saves time and makes everyone’s lives easier.
- The Art of Anticipation – Pay close attention to what’s happening around you. Is the director looking frustrated with the lighting? Flag it for the assistant director. Sense the crew is getting hungry? Check in on lunch ETA. The best PAs think ahead and take action without needing to be told.
- Own Your Mistakes (And Learn From Them) – We all mess up sometimes! The key is to own up to your mistakes quickly and honestly. It’s far better than trying to hide them, which almost always backfires. Plus, every mistake is a chance to learn how to do things better next time.
Remember: These skills translate to any film crew position. Embrace your PA role—it’s your entry point to building a successful and rewarding career in the film industry!
Attitude is Everything
In the fast-paced world of filmmaking, your attitude can be your greatest asset. Sure, knowing a little industry lingo helps, but a positive mindset and go-getter spirit are what truly make you shine as a Production Assistant.
Here’s what sets the best Production Assistants apart:
- Positivity: Film sets can be stressful. Keep a smile on your face and a “can-do” attitude, even when things get hectic. Your good energy will rub off on everyone around you. I remember my first full day on the ‘Maid’ set. It was pouring rain, we were behind schedule, and everyone was tense. I made a point to be extra cheerful, and pretty soon, even the grumpiest crew members were cracking a smile.
- Work Ethic: Show up ready to put in the hours and tackle any task, big or small. No complaining, no excuses – just a willingness to get the job done. During a particularly long night shoot on ‘Maid’, I could tell the crew was getting exhausted. Instead of retreating to a corner, I started grabbing extra snacks, refilling water, and offering to help wherever I could. It boosted morale and even sped up our wrap time.
- Initiative: Don’t just wait around for instructions. Look for ways to be useful. On ‘Maid,’ I quickly realized I was the only Production Asisstant near crafty (snacks!) when the call came for a scene reset. Without being asked, I started restocking the table – the actors and director definitely noticed.
- Humility: Remember, every job on set is important. Be eager to help any department, and never act like a task is beneath you. Even though I dreamed of being behind the camera, I never hesitated to help with crafty, clean up trash, or do a bathroom run. Guess what? The art department ended up asking for me specifically when they needed a quick extra hand.
- Adaptability: Filming schedules change at the drop of a hat. Be flexible, stay calm under pressure, and always focus on finding solutions, not dwelling on problems. Our ‘Maid’ shoot was heavily location-based. One day a location fell through last minute. I jumped in with the AD team, offering alternative suggestions and helping with re-routing crew and equipment. It was chaotic, but I learned so much.
Remember, your attitude on set is a choice. So choose to be a force of positivity, hard work, and teamwork!
The Nitty-Gritty of the Job
Get ready for a whirlwind! A PA’s workday is a wild ride of ever-changing tasks and unexpected challenges. One minute you’re setting up the director’s monitor tent, the next you’re wrangling a flock of pigeons out of the camera shot (true story!).
Here’s a taste of the Production Assistants PA life:
- Setting Up & Breaking Down: You’ll become an expert at building and dismantling anything from pop-up tents to complex camera rigs. Bonus points if you can do it at lightning speed.
- Traffic Control: Picture yourself bravely holding back a crowd of curious onlookers with nothing but a walkie-talkie and a determined expression. It’s like herding cats, but with people.
- Runs/Errands: Get ready to channel your inner delivery driver. You’ll fetch coffee orders, track down obscure props, and dash across town to pick up that one crucial item everyone forgot.
- “Lock-ups”: Think of yourself as a temporary bouncer for the set. You’ll learn to politely but firmly inform people to “hold for picture” and freeze all movement within the shot.
- Walkie-talkie & Communication: The walkie-talkie is your lifeline. Master the lingo, keep your messages concise, and never…ever…lose track of it.
- The Unexpected: Just when you think you have a handle on things, prepare to pivot! Be ready to drop everything to find an actor’s missing earring, build a makeshift rain cover, or even offer impromptu tech support to the director.
Remember: This job is physically demanding. You’ll be on your feet for hours, hauling gear, and sometimes battling the elements.
If the idea of organized chaos with a side of random errands excites you, then you might just have what it takes to be a PA!
The Long Hours and Physically Demanding Work
Let’s be honest: Being a PA(Production Assistant)is not for the faint of heart. Get ready for early mornings, late nights, and a whole lot of time on your feet. A 12-hour workday is considered standard in the film world, and sometimes those days stretch even longer.
Think of it as a marathon, not a sprint. You’ll be:
- Standing for hours on end, often in unpredictable weather.
- Lugging heavy equipment, from hefty camera cases to sandbags for stabilizing lights.
- Setting up and tearing down sets – sometimes multiple times in a single day.
- Hustling between departments, across locations, and generally staying in constant motion.
It’s normal to feel physically and mentally exhausted. But here’s the thing: Pushing through the tough days is how you prove your dedication and earn respect on set. Think of the long hours as your training ground, getting you ready for the demanding but rewarding world of filmmaking.
A few Production Assistant survival tips:
- Your shoes are your most important tool. Invest in a comfortable, supportive pair.
- Find moments to stretch and stay hydrated throughout the day.
- Pack snacks that give you energy, not just a sugar rush.
Remember, your body and mind will adapt. And the satisfaction of seeing a project come together after grueling days makes every sore muscle worth it!
Hierarchy on Set
Think of a film set as a bustling city with its own rules and order. Everyone has a specific job to do, and understanding the chain of command is key to navigating this world successfully as a Production Assistant.
Here’s the basic breakdown:
- The Top Brass: At the top, you’ve got the Director (the creative visionary) and the Producers (the ones who make it all happen financially). Then there are the Assistant Directors (ADs), who essentially run the day-to-day operations on set. As a PA, the ADs will likely be your direct supervisors.
- Department Heads: Each major department has a leader: Camera, Lighting, Sound, Art, Wardrobe…the list goes on! You’ll be interacting with these folks regularly, taking direction and assisting with tasks.
- The Rest of the Crew: Within each department, there’s a whole team working together. It’s important to be respectful towards everyone on set, from the experienced gaffer to the fellow PAs(Production Assistants).
Why Hierarchy Matters: Knowing who to go to for what will save you time and major headaches. Need to move a prop? Don’t just grab it – check in with the Art Department first. Want to know when lunch is happening? Ask the AD team, not the Director. Showing respect for the chain of command builds trust and lets everyone do their jobs smoothly.
Bonus: Paying attention to the hierarchy is like getting a behind-the-scenes masterclass in how movies are made. You’ll see how different departments collaborate, learn the lingo, and gain an understanding of the big picture – invaluable knowledge for your future filmmaking career!
Before You Apply
Hold your horses! Before you start blasting out your resume to every production company in sight, let’s get you prepped for PA success. Think of this as your essential gear checklist – because trust us, you don’t want to show up on your first day without these basics:
- Your Secret Weapon: Comfortable shoes. Seriously, we can’t stress this enough! Blisters will make a long day miserable. Look for sturdy, supportive shoes designed for lots of walking and standing.
- The Starter Pack: Never leave home without a small notebook, pen, a multi-tool (you’ll be surprised how often it comes in handy), and a can-do attitude. The notebook is for taking instructions, the multi-tool for those unexpected fix-it moments, and a positive attitude lets the crew know you’re ready for anything.
- Resume Reality Check: Highlight ANY experience that shows you can handle a fast-paced environment, are a team player, and are eager to learn. Customer service experience? Spin it as excellent communication skills and ability to handle pressure. Organized a school event? That proves you can manage logistics and work on a deadline. Get creative!
- The Extras (Nice to Have): Got a short film reel showcasing your projects? Include it! Took a Production Assistant boot camp or workshop? Mention it! These make you stand out.
More Must-Haves:
- Sunscreen & Hat: Film sets often involve outdoor work. Protect yourself from the sun!
- Reusable Water Bottle: Staying hydrated is crucial, and being eco-friendly is a bonus.
- Portable Charger: Your phone is your lifeline on set. Don’t get caught with a dead battery.
- Basic First-Aid Kit: Small cuts and scrapes happen. Being prepared shows initiative.
- A Sense of Humor: Some days will be chaotic. The ability to laugh it off keeps you sane.
Where the Jobs Are Hiding:
- Film-Specific Job Boards: These are your go-to sources for PA gigs
- Production Company Websites: Often have a ‘careers’ section
- Get Connected: Search for local film networking groups, either online or in your community.
Remember: Film sets are fast-paced environments. Having your essentials ready means you can jump on an opportunity as soon as it pops up and hit the ground running.
The Path Forward
Think of your time as a Production Assistant(PA) not as the final destination, but as the best possible launchpad for your filmmaking career. It’s like getting paid to learn from the inside out, building skills, making connections, and discovering where your true passion in the industry lies.
Here’s why starting as a Production Assistant(PA) rocks:
- Behind-the-Scenes Access: You’re not just fetching coffee; you’re seeing how every department functions, from camera and lighting to wardrobe and props. This knowledge is priceless.
- Networking Goldmine: Chat with the seasoned cinematographer while setting up a shot. Ask the art director for tips during a break. These connections can lead to future opportunities.
- Real-World Film School: Forget lectures. You’re learning problem-solving on the fly, how to communicate effectively under pressure, and the art of teamwork in a fast-paced environment. These skills will set you apart in ANY film role.
- Did We Mention Success Stories? So many famous directors and producers got their start in the trenches as PAs. Their journey can be your roadmap!
- Where Do You Go From Here? Use your PA experience to figure out what excites you most. Maybe you’ll become a camera assistant, a production designer, or head back to film school with newfound focus. The possibilities are endless.
Remember: Your film career is a marathon, not a sprint. Embrace your Production Assistant role as the starting line, soak up every ounce of knowledge, and get ready for an incredible journey in the world of filmmaking!
For more great filmmaking articles from Peek At This, check out these tips and tricks below:
- Lights, Camera, Action: A Step-By-Step Guide to Launching Your Film Production Company
- First Assistant Director – Complete Beginners Guide On How To Become A Great First AD
- 10+ Best On Set Production Gear Tools For Filmmakers
- 5+ Important Stages Of Film Pre-Production – A Simple Guide
- Stay on Your Feet: Essential Travel Shoes for Filmmakers (Comfort, Support, Waterproofing)
FAQs
Got questions swirling in your head about this whole PA thing? We get it! Here are some answers to those burning questions about starting your filmmaking journey:
A: Let’s be honest, you’re probably not going to get rich starting as a PA. Pay rates vary depending on location and the type of production. BUT, consider this an investment in your career. You’re gaining the experience and connections to move up to higher-paying positions in the industry.
A: That’s totally okay! A PA job is the perfect way to learn the ropes. What matters more is your willingness to learn, work hard, and have a positive attitude.
A: Everyone messes up sometimes! The key is to own it, quickly offer a solution, and learn from it. Crews appreciate someone who takes initiative over someone who hides their mistakes.
A: Film sets can be high-stress environments, so the occasional grump is inevitable. Focus on doing your job well, stay positive, and don’t take things personally. If someone is truly out of line, discreetly speak to your AD.
A: The film industry is competitive, but there are always PA gigs out there. Persistence is key! Make sure your resume is polished, network like crazy, and be ready to jump on opportunities when they arise.
Have more questions? Check out online film communities and resources. You’re not alone on this journey!
Lights, Camera, Action... Starts with Coffee Runs
Think of being a PA as your “learn the ropes” montage – long days, quirky tasks, and yes, a whole lot of coffee runs. But guess what? Hollywood legends like PT Anderson, David Fincher, and even Bill Hader survived (and thrived!) in those early PA trenches. It’s your turn now!
Sure, there’ll be moments you feel more like a pack mule than a future filmmaker. Yet, every walkie-talkie relay, every background extra wrangle, each connection you make – that’s building your film industry muscle.
So, are you ready to write your own rags-to-riches (or at least, rags-to-reasonable-paycheck) story in the world of film? Update that resume, start your job hunt, and get ready for a wild ride. Your behind-the-scenes adventure is about to begin!
Ready to kickstart your journey? Click here to grab your own guide and drive toward your success as a production assistant.
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About the author: Trent Peek (IMDB | Youtube) is a seasoned filmmaker with over 15 years of experience crafting compelling content for film, television, and social media platforms like Youtube and Instagram. A past president of Cinevic (Society of Independent Filmmakers), his work spans the visual spectrum, from capturing stunning stills with top brands like Leica and Hasselblad to wielding powerful cinema cameras from RED and ARRI.
He’s currently passionate about empowering creators with the cinematic power of compact cameras like the Blackmagic Pocket Cinema. When he’s not behind the lens, you’ll find him traveling the world, delving into a good book, or dreaming up his next captivating short film.