Commercials can really help spread the word about your business, product, or service. Making a commercial requires more than just having a great idea. You need to have the right film crew to make your commercial production a success. Before you begin, you might want to read about important elements that make a 30-second commercial successful.
If you’re planning on filming a commercial, you’ll need a film crew to help you execute your vision. A film crew has many different working parts, depending on what you need out of them they might look different. They work hard to make your commercial not only professional but also successful.
You could film a commercial on your own but it’s not recommended. Even if you’re making a parody commercial that looks homemade and silly, you’ll want a crew that can execute that professionally. There are many benefits to having a professional film crew including:
- They have the experience and expertise needed to capture high-quality footage.
- A film crew will have access to better equipment than you might be able to afford or find on your own.
- They will be able to work together to film the commercial quickly and efficiently.
Film crews are necessary in order to create a successful film of any genre. There are many different types of film crews, each with its own specific purpose. Depending on your project, you will need to choose the right type of film crew for the job.
What does a Film Crew Look Like?
Depending on the size and scope of your commercial, your film crew may vary in size. It will be different compared to that of a feature film, a live-streamed event, or social media short film. Each type of production has different needs for their film crew.
But generally speaking, you’ll absolutely need the following roles filled:
Producer:
The producer is responsible for managing the overall production, from pre-production through post-production. They will work closely with the director to ensure the commercial is completed on time and within budget.
Director:
The director is responsible for bringing the creative vision of the commercial to life. They will work with the producer to plan and execute the shoot. They are also in charge of directing the talent on set.
Cinematographer:
The cinematographer or director of photography (DP) is responsible for the look of the commercial and will work closely with the director to achieve the desired aesthetic. They will operate the camera and lighting equipment on set.
Editor:
The editor is responsible for putting together the final cut of the commercial, working from the footage shot by the film crew. They will work with the director to ensure the commercial tells the story that was intended.
Assistant Director:
The Assistant Director (AD) helps the director with the logistics of the shoot including, managing the film crew and keeping track of the shot list.
Production Designer:
The Production Designer (PD) is responsible for the overall look of the commercial, including the set design, props, and costumes.
Gaffer:
The gaffer is responsible for lighting on set and will work closely with the cinematographer to achieve the desired look.
Key Grip:
The key grip is responsible for overseeing the film crew that handles the camera and lighting equipment on set.
Best Boy Grip:
The best boy grip is the second-in-command to the key grip and helps with managing the film crew and equipment on set.
Sound Mixer:
The sound mixer is responsible for capturing and recording the audio on set. They will work closely with the director and editor to ensure the audio is clear and pristine.
Boom Operator:
The boom operator helps the sound mixer by holding and operating the boom microphone on set.
Wardrobe Stylist:
The wardrobe stylist is responsible for dressing the talent in the commercial, working with the production designer to ensure the overall look is cohesive.
Makeup Artist:
The makeup artist is responsible for doing the talent’s hair and makeup before they film. They will work closely with the wardrobe stylist to ensure the overall look is cohesive.
Depending on the size of your film crew, some roles may be combined or completed by one person. For example, the cinematographer may also be the camera operator, or the editor may also be the sound mixer. It all depends on your specific needs and the crew that you’re hiring.
How do I go about Hiring a Crew?
When you’re planning your commercial, take some time to consider what film crew roles you will need to fill in order to execute your vision. With a clear understanding of what each role entails, you’ll be able to put together a film crew that will help you make a successful commercial.
C&I Studios has a crew for all of your commercial needs, as well as any other type of film you need to produce. From pre-production to post, we will work with you to ensure your commercial turns out exactly as you envisioned it, or better!
Hiring a film crew doesn’t have to be difficult. With C&I Studios, you can rest assured that you’re getting a group of professionals who are dedicated to helping you achieve your vision. If you’re at all curious about our previous productions, you can take a look at our portfolio. Contact us to learn more about our film crew services.
If you’re looking to hire a crew on your own, not through C&I Studios, you can take a look at our previous blog post on how to successfully hire a full film crew here. We want you to have all of the information you need to be able to make the right decisions for your production.
Now you’re ready to hire a crew!
As you can see, there’s a variety of roles that need to be filled in order to make a commercial. It’s important to have a clear vision for your commercial before you start assembling your film crew. This will help ensure that everyone on the team is on the same page and working towards the same goal.
Hiring the right film crew can make or break your production. With C&I Studios, you can be confident that you’re getting a group of experienced professionals who will work with you to create a successful commercial.