You can know your job and still be put in a bad position. These pages are for the conversation before “just get it done” becomes your problem.
Camera, lighting, grip, sound, art, construction, transport, locations, production, hair, makeup and costume.
Workplace situations
“It’s a day rate. There’s no overtime.”
A day rate needs a defined day. “Flat” is not an answer to a question about hours.
Pay & hours“Just pick up the truck before your call.”
Do not let the call sheet erase the work either side of it.
Pay & hours“You’ll figure it out. Just get it done.”
Being willing is not the same as being trained.
Safety & pressure“You’re wrapped. Drive the truck back.”
Getting the shot is not the end of the safety problem.
Fatigue & travel“Eat while we reset.”
A sandwich in your hand does not tell us whether you got a break.
Meals & breaks“There’s nowhere to warm up. We’re nearly done.”
Basic arrangements belong in the plan, not at the end of a long day.
Locations & basic needs“People who complain don’t get called back.”
You do not have to make your case in front of the whole crew.
Pressure & retaliation“You invoice us, so none of those rules apply.”
The label is a starting point, not the whole answer.
Pay & contracts“Put twelve hours. That’s what we budgeted.”
The budget is not a record of your hours.
Pay & records
Before you agree to the job
- What does the rate cover, and when does overtime start?
- Does my day include prep, pickups, load-in, wrap and returns?
- Who is responsible for safety, and what happens if I cannot do the task safely?
- What is the plan for meals, rest and getting home?