Film Set: Sound On, Camera Off!

Frankfurt by night, the skyline glistens, the room service enters the penthouse with a tray of martinis - a terrible scream! A lifeless body lies on the floor by the window ... Cut. We are on a thriller film set - and this loft backdrop will be seen more often later. The set is the place that everything revolves around. This is where a cinema film or TV production takes shape, scene by scene by scene.

What is a (film) set?

A set is an artificial scenery for film, TV or theatre. Usually sets are constructed on film studio premises or sound stages. Nevertheless, any place (even outdoors) that has been specially designed to convey a particular feeling is a set. But especially in film, there is often a lot to be said for building a set instead of shooting on location due to time and budget reasons as well as having more control over the environment. And often the location described in the script simply doesn't exist!

Which locations can be a film set?

All of them, just like in real life! There's a set everywhere, from underground car parks to skyscraper roofs, under palm trees by the pool or high up in the air when the detective hovers in a helicopter for the crime scene on an open stubble field. Props , set designers, location scouts and more, from lounge furniture to awnings and wind machines, provide the realistic scenery. Once the (camera) technology is ready and the weather and light play along, the shoot can begin. But we've already seen this loft as a backdrop, haven't we? That's right, once a film set is ready, you have to take advantage of it to shoot several scenes one after the other - and edit them together later.

How is a film set created?

Some sets are filmed in public places. So the production company applies for a filming permit from the respective city council. But one thing at a time! The right film location has to be found first. So production designers and location scouts go on a so-called motif search during pre-production - and take photos of possible film locations that fit in well with the script. Mission accomplished? The ideal set has everything that is important both technically and acoustically - such as street noise, birdsong - or silence. It is also ideal if the film crew and actors have the shortest possible journey to the film set. Now the production designers, directors and cameramen take a look at the motifs they have found: Are the conditions on location suitable for filming the planned shots? But why bother reinventing the wheel? Many productions save themselves the effort of searching by commissioning special service providers who suggest ready-made, suitable locations from the catalogue to production designers.

Why film in a studio?

With a film set in a studio, the acoustics, technology and space can be designed as desired and film tricks can be used with ease. The typical set is built from ‘flats’: artificial walls and partitions made of plywood that are first stapled and glued together and then painted or wallpapered for a uniform look. The backdrop and props are left out after filming - ready for use in further scenes. The more meticulously and flexibly (such a movable backdrop) the details are planned on set, the more likely it is that a perfect result will be guaranteed in a short space of time. What's more, it's often the little things in the props that make a scene realistic - such as an empty martini glass, carelessly discarded items of clothing or a stain on the wallpaper. Because the set and set design create moods of all kinds.

What are some typical challenges of working on set?

Filming costs money - not least because you have to rent locations. Everyone involved, from the director to the actors and extras , knows this: The more professional, disciplined and committed everyone is, the quicker a scene can be shot - and the next point in the schedule can be tackled. A certain number of shooting days are planned and should be adhered to, because every additional day puts a strain on the budget. Sometimes there are changes to the shooting schedule or script, or the weather doesn't play ball, so a shoot on set has to be cancelled or postponed. When a shooting day ends? When the scene is in the bag. Patience, patience! Until then, everyone involved is ready - and adapts flexibly to every situation.

What rules apply to extras and actors on set?

Professionality and hard work. Whoever is there reports to their contact person. Extras usually find their own parking space near the film location. Unless, of course, you want your car to be in the film (this is not uncommon). Mobile phones and photos on set are forbidden, as are props and costumes that are not returned to the production after filming. Bringing children, spouses or friends along so they can see you in the role of your life? No-Go: Anything that is not officially booked must unfortunately stay outside. You schedule even let the person responsible know when you need a loo break.

Camera off! Now it's time to shoot - how to behave?

Depending on the shot in a scene, the director sits in a different place. The director, assistant director and camera team work from different angles. Nothing is left to chance here. If you receive instructions, you should follow them. Otherwise, keeping quiet is the best strategy instead of pestering the set manager, director or cameramen for information. The assistant director will brief you on set and tell you what is happening in the scene. Everyone should listen to the instructions from the production manager.

What makes actors feel comfortable on a film set?

Are you on set and giving your all? That makes you hungry! Fruit and drinks are provided and, depending on the duration of the shoot, lunch and/or dinner are served. The set table is often reserved for catering for the film crew - as an extra you usually eat somewhere else. But even if there is catering on set: You should never come to the shoot on an empty stomach. Being on set is also fun. Especially when everyone knows what's coming and what's expected. Even as a bit-part actor and extra, you need to be well prepared. Your agency will look after so that you are not left in the dark. A contact person will support you from the first casting to the last day of shooting - at eye level, endeavouring to take away your stage fright and excitement and imposter syndrome.

Why does the job on set deserve respect?

They say it takes a village to raise a child. It is very similar when a film or video is made. A gigantic production such as Game of Thrones is only successful thanks to the contribution of many artists and craftspeople. Everyone on the film set has their job. Production designers behind the scenes or make-up artists who make sure the lead actress's hair is just right deserve just as much recognition as the stars in front of the camera. Which is why it annoys us at starboxx to hear about providers who only inform extras about the location shortly before they are due to arrive. Or of agencies where potential actors pay annual fees to get a chance. Dubious - and disrespectful, in our opinion! After all, good actors are paid for their work instead of paying to be in the film.

How does a day on the film set work?

As a renowned casting agency , starboxx offers production companies in film, advertising and TV a full service for casting and research - in 120 regions in Germany, Austria and Switzerland. We have the right performers, actors, extras and extras - and always the right cast for every project.

We are looking for actors of all ages, which is why we are happy to answer questions from committed newcomers ! But professionals can also expect new opportunities and exciting jobs in front of the camera every day. Simply register online and upload your photos - admission to starboxx is always free. And who knows: maybe your first shoot will soon be waiting for you …