Below The Line Crew
Technical and crafts personnel who execute the physical production aspects of filmmaking under department head supervision.
Definition
The skilled workforce that handles the hands-on technical execution of film production, including camera operators, sound technicians, grips, electricians, and other specialized crafts positions. These crew members work under the supervision of department heads and are typically paid hourly wages rather than flat fees.
Below the line crew members possess specialized technical skills essential for production execution but generally do not participate in creative decision-making or profit participation arrangements, distinguishing them from above the line talent and producers.
Why It Matters
Below the line crew costs typically represent the largest portion of production budgets, making effective crew management crucial for controlling costs and maintaining production schedules while ensuring technical quality standards.
Experienced below the line crew members are essential for efficient production execution and can significantly impact both budget management and creative outcomes through their technical expertise and problem-solving abilities during production challenges.
Examples in Practice
Camera department below the line crew includes focus pullers, camera operators, and digital imaging technicians who execute the cinematographer's vision under the director of photography's supervision.
Electrical department crew members like gaffers, electricians, and lighting technicians implement lighting designs and manage power distribution throughout production locations.
Grip department personnel handle camera support equipment, rigging, and set safety while working closely with camera and lighting departments to achieve desired shots and lighting setups.