Because the best actors don’t just hit their marks—they respect the team around them.
As an actor, your job is to embody characters, hit emotional beats, and serve the story. But the people behind the camera are doing the exact same thing—just from a different angle.
Knowing who’s who on set doesn’t just make you more professional—it makes you more collaborative. It helps you build rapport, communicate efficiently, and ultimately, get invited back.
Here’s your crash course on key crew members actors should know—and how to build positive relationships with them on set.
Assistant Director (AD)
What They Do:
The AD is the master of logistics. They run the set, keep everything on schedule, and coordinate the movement of people and departments.
Why They Matter to You:
- They tell you where to be and when.
- They keep the energy and pace of the day moving.
- They can either be your best ally… or your biggest stressor (depending on your attitude).
Pro Tip:
Respect their time. If you’re called to set, be ready. If you need a break, communicate clearly and respectfully. Treat them like the boss of the playground—because they are.
Gaffer
What They Do:
The gaffer is the head of the electrical department and works closely with the Director of Photography (DP) to light the scene.
Why They Matter to You:
- The lighting team makes you look good—literally.
- If you’re hitting a mark wrong or blocking light, they’ll adjust you or ask for a tweak.
Pro Tip:
If you move during a take and it feels too shadowy, ask kindly: “Should I adjust for lighting?” It shows awareness without overstepping.
Script Supervisor
What They Do:
This person tracks continuity—what hand you held the coffee cup in, what line you flubbed slightly, where you paused mid-sentence. They also mark what takes are best.
Why They Matter to You:
- They’re watching everything.
- They’ll let the director know if a scene doesn’t match the last take.
- They help keep performances consistent between angles and shooting days.
Pro Tip:
If you forget how you did something in the last take, ask them! They’re your go-to for continuity.
Director of Photography (DP or Cinematographer)
What They Do:
They frame the shot, shape the light, and create the visual look of the project.
Why They Matter to You:
- They control the camera and the lens—how you’re seen.
- If you’re slightly out of frame, they may adjust you subtly or ask for a mark change.
Pro Tip:
Ask where your eyeline should be if it’s not obvious. A quick “Is this my frame?” before rolling shows that you care about composition.
Sound Mixer / Boom Operator
What They Do:
The sound department captures your voice cleanly and clearly during takes.
Why They Matter to You:
- Your best performance means nothing if it isn’t heard.
- They’ll mic you, track your sound levels, and ask for quiet when needed.
Pro Tip:
Don’t touch your mic or hidden lav pack once it’s placed. Avoid noisy jewelry or clothing. And always alert them if you’re planning physical movement that could interfere.
Production Assistants (PAs)
What They Do:
They’re the glue of the set—handling everything from locking up locations to relaying messages, running gear, or helping actors find the right holding spot.
Why They Matter to You:
- They often act as the bridge between departments.
- Their job is tough—and often thankless.
Pro Tip:
Be kind. Learn their names. Say thank you. That simple respect travels fast through a production and builds your reputation as a professional.
How to Build Rapport with the Crew
Want to be a joy to work with? Follow these tips:
Be early, not just on time.
Use your downtime to observe—not disrupt.
Keep your space clean and your energy steady.
Ask questions respectfully and listen fully.
Say thank you. Always.
No one forgets the actor who’s kind to the crew. And they’ll advocate for you more than you know.
As an actor, you’re a visible piece of the puzzle—but never the whole picture. Understanding the roles of the crew around you not only makes you a better collaborator—it makes you a better artist.
Treat every set like a classroom and every crew member like a teammate. The more you respect the craft around you, the more respect you’ll receive in return.
And in this industry? That’s everything.
