A Producer’s Guide - What to Look for When Hiring a TV & Film Crew

Hiring the right TV and film crew is important to bringing a project’s vision to life, but can also be a bit of a minefield. Whether working on a small indie project or a big-budget production, selecting the right crew can be the difference in making it a success. The process can seem overwhelming for a producer or director, but understanding what to look for in potential crew members can streamline decision-making.

To make it easier as a producer, we’ve created some advice to help you choose the best people for the job.

Experience and Qualifications
When hiring a film crew, the first thing to consider is their experience and qualifications. Experienced crew members offer a deeper understanding of handling on-set challenges, so here is what to look for when reviewing experience and qualifications.

• Make sure the crew member’s experience is in line with the demands of your project. For example, if you need a cinematographer for a high-action film, check if they've worked on action-heavy projects before.

• Specialised roles like sound engineers and SFX makeup artists may require specific training. Ask for a portfolio to evaluate their work.

• Hiring crew members who are versatile and can handle multiple roles is a cost-effective choice. For example, someone experienced in both camera operation and lighting can be highly valuable.

Reliability and Professionalism
Professionalism and reliability are just as important as technical skills. A highly skilled crew member who lacks professionalism can disrupt your set or even create a negative atmosphere. So try considering these key things:

• Check references to see how team members have handled pressure and timelines in past projects.

• Ask for examples of how they handled conflicts or stressful situations in previous sets.

• Having crew members who can think on their feet and solve problems independently will help keep your production running smoothly. Again, asking for examples can be highly beneficial.

Specialised Skills
Each film project has unique needs, and it’s important to hire crew members who bring the right specific and specialised skills project. Some crew members need to have very specific abilities to execute your vision effectively. For example:

• Cinematographers and camera operators - They should have experience with the specific types of cameras and lighting setups required for your project. A strong understanding of different filming environments (indoor, outdoor, night, etc.) is key.

• Sound mixers and boom operators - Capturing clear, high-quality sound is important. Look for sound mixers who have experience working in challenging environments (e.g., outdoors, noisy sets) and are proficient in using a wide selection of microphones.

• Makeup artists and costume designers - For period films, special effects-heavy productions, or films with elaborate wardrobe needs, crew members with experience in these areas are essential.

Cultural Fit and Set Dynamics
The best crew members are not just talented but also easy to work with. Here’s how to ensure your crew bonds well with your vision and team:

• Personality is key! Even if a candidate is highly skilled, if they bring a negative or difficult attitude, they can harm the team’s morale. Conduct interviews and watch for how they interact with others on set through trial periods.

• A crew member who is genuinely excited about your project will go above and beyond. Look for people who have a personal or professional interest in the subject or theme of your production.

• A diverse crew brings different and unique perspectives, making your production more dynamic. Different cultural backgrounds, creative styles, and experiences can enhance the creative process and overcome challenges in unique ways.

Budget and Availability
Before you start hiring, you need to understand your production’s budget and timeline. Not every crew member will fit within your financial plan, but with a bit of planning, you can still hire quality professionals without breaking the bank.

Establish a clear budget that aligns with your project’s scope, whether you're working with daily rates or long-term contracts. Larger productions do have more financial flexibility, smaller ones can still attract talent by clearly communicating expectations and potential benefits like experience or networking opportunities.

Another thing to consider is availability. Be sure to confirm each crew member’s availability, as many may have multiple offers, and ensure they can commit to the timeline of your project. Additionally, look for individuals who are flexible and capable of working within your budget constraints, and consider pairing less experienced crew with seasoned crew members for better oversight and to improve experience.