Working Relationships

3.1     Explain the importance of teamwork when working on a film production

Why is teamwork important when working on a film production?

Because every person’s job is important to the film, and every persons job relies on other people doing their job to the best of their ability. Everyone working together creates a faster, more positive and more productive work environment. It also makes the end product more cohesive as everyone is on the same page, working as one unit.

What can happen if there isn’t good teamwork?

Poor teamwork can lead to people doing their job poorly as they don’t feel supported. It also leads to a slower work day, possibly causing breeches in scheduling. The end product will be worse as a result.

3.2       Identify the qualities needed to work well with others

How did you show the following, give examples:

Good timekeeping- keeping an eye on the schedule and the clock and doing your job according to the time allowance. For example, compromising on lighting so the shot isn’t as nice looking, to make sure we don’t spend too long on one shot.

Being reliable- doing what is asked of you, on time and to a high standard- the rest of the team should be able to trust you. For example, coming to set knowing what jobs need to be done, bringing all of the equipment you need to bring.

Teamwork- listening to others, working as one, caring and understanding the needs and importance of every one else’s job. For example, letting the sound man know when the camera is being moved.

Sharing ideas- being able to listen and consider everyone’s ideas with equal importance. For example, the cinematographer suggests a new line, and recording that line as well as the original (if the schedule allows it) so that the best decision can be made in post.

Safe working- making sure everyone is safe. For example, clearly marking trip hazards on set and making sure everyone is aware of the risk.

3.3       Describe how you worked with others collaboratively on your film production

How did you work with others in the crew? Give examples

I felt that our group worked very well. I think I coordinated the group well without making anyone feel annoyed, controlled or uncomfortable. Our group had a positive atmosphere that allowed us to share ideas openly and perform our jobs efficiently. When we set up a shot, I would pay attention to every member, positioning the actor, positioning the camera, checking the sound levels, without taking the creative freedom away from the actor, cinematographer and sound man. We moved quickly and always kept an eye on the schedule, without becoming stressed. Everyone was kind and empathetic to everyone else’s job, and tried to help others as best they could.

Were there any problems you needed to overcome? Give examples

In terms of collaboration, we compromised and listened to each other. We generally worked as a team to solve problems, so the team itself never struggled.

One problem was that we wanted our actress Hannah to do a scene in her underwear. We needed to make her feel comfortable and safe in that vulnerable position. I think our group handled it quite well. Our close and comfortable working atmosphere made her experience enjoyable.

How could you improve your ability to work with others?

I could pay more attention to the group as a whole as opposed to only focusing on one person at a time.