Assistant Director (TV or Film)
Job Description:Assistant directors support directors by organising and planning everything on TV or film sets.
Job Category:What you will do:
You’ll support directors by organising and planning everything on set.
Most productions use a team of assistant directors (ADs), with a 1st AD, at least one 2nd AD and sometimes one or more 3rd ADs, all with different jobs to do.
If you’re a 1st AD, you’ll do much of the planning before a production, and manage the set during filming.
You might:
- work with the director to break down the script into a shot-by-shot ‘storyboard’ and decide the order of shooting
- plan a filming schedule, taking into account the director’s ideas and the budget
- oversee the hire of locations, props and equipment
- recruit and motivate the cast and crew, or interviewees for documentaries
- make sure filming stays on schedule
- supervise a team of 2nd and 3rd ADs and runners
If you’re a 2nd AD, you might:
- produce each day’s ‘call sheet’ (schedule)
- be the link between the set and the production office
- deal with paperwork
- organise transport and hotels
- make sure cast members or interviewees are on set (or on location for documentaries) at the right times
- find and supervise extras on productions where there’s no 3rd AD
As a 3rd AD, you’ll make sure extras are on set at the right times, and give them their cues. You might also direct the action in background crowd scenes, and act as a messenger on set.
Skills:
You’ll need:
- knowledge of media production and communication
- broadcasting and telecommunications knowledge
- to be able to use a computer and the main software packages competently
As well as:
- to be thorough and pay attention to detail
- organisational skills
- the ability to work well with others (teamwork skills)
- leadership skills
- the ability to use your initiative
- the ability to accept criticism and work well under pressure
- ambition and a desire to succeed
Entry Requirements:
You’ll need experience of the production process and a network of contacts in the industry. Employers are usually more interested in your experience than your qualifications.
You’ll usually need to start as a runner or production assistant on set and work your way up to 3rd or 2nd assistant director (AD).
You may find it easier to get a job as a runner if you do a film, video or media production course that includes practical skills and work placements.
Working Hours and Environment:
Your working hours could be long and irregular, depending on the demands of a production, and will often include evenings and weekends.
You’ll work in TV and film studios, or on location. Work can be anywhere in the country or abroad, so a driving licence is usually required.
Career Path & Progression:
With experience, you could progress to be a director, production manager or producer.