Question by Mizzie: How can film crew members have multiple specialized areas?
I noticed for many of the film crew members, they have done several things: for exmample, like production coordinator, camera assistant,
production accountant, etc.. for one person!
I’m just wondering how that works, do they work for a production company that trains them? how can a crew member specialized in a specific area gain experience/training/get to work on another (many times completely unrelated) area?
Best answer:
Answer by Russell C
It is not unusual for crew to work their way up from the most junior position like a grip to very senior like first assistant director, often spending time and learning in various departments along the way.
It would not be all that unusual for someone who wanted to be a line producer to spend time with the accounts department in the production office.
Of course, if someone’s goal was to be head of a particular department like director of photography, special effects, lighting etc, they would need specialised training and professional qualifications.
Crew on a film work closely together and, after a while in the business, get to know one another and often recommend each other for jobs and help each other learn skills in different departments.
Know better? Leave your own answer in the comments!