TERMINOLOGY / SET LINGO

1) 10-1/10-100- Common Radio term. Means: I am going to (or in)the

bathroom. EXENPLE: Crewmember: Josh, whats you 20? Josh: Im 10-1.
2) 1 A.C./First Asst. Camera/Camera assistant Responsible for maintenance and
care of the camera. Usually the focus puller, who ensures that each shot, stays
in focus.
3) 1 A.D.- First assistant director. It is their job to help the director make the
show. They steer and lead crew to get the director whatever they need. This is
BOTH people and set preparation. They are responsible for completing EVERY
DAYS SCHEDULED WORK. They work with the production manager to schedule
shooting: the DP to facilitate the shots; the director to make the day run
smoothly. The 1 sets the tone for the entire show.
4) 1 Team The Actors.
5) 2 Banger/2 room/3 room trailer/2 hole-A trailer with 2 dressing/prep rooms for
talent.
6) Whats your 20? Radio term. 20 mean your location. Where are you .
7) 2 A.D. - A second assistant director is an extension of the 1, making
preparations for everything and everyone to be in the right place at the right
time. Responsible for preparing UPCOMING work, making call sheets, and
setting the background, they continue the first A.D.s work making what has
been prepared a reality. A good second is always looking ahead.
8) 2 2 A.D.- Responsible for filing the production report (PR) on work
COMPLETED as well as getting actors ready for camera. (Hair, make up,
wardrobe)
9) 2 Meal served after 12 work hours when crew is in overtime. Second meal is
NOT always served, and has to be approved by the UPM.
10)
2 Team Stand-ins for the main cast used during lighting and camera
set-up.
11)
2Unit A separated, smaller crew responsible for getting establishing
shots, location shots, stunt scenes, or anything else that the main unit (aka 1
unit) cant get.
12)
A-Camera The main camera.
13)
Abby Singer/The Abby 2 to last shot of the day.
14)
Above the line The pars of the budget that does NOT cover actual
production COSTS. This includes: produce(s), Director, Writer(s) CAST (actors,
actresses).
15)
AD Board/Bing Board Used in commercials, this is a large piece of
poster board which contain the storyboard shots for the ad. AP.A. will strike and
set up the boars by the monitors for each shot and may also be in charge of
crossing off each storyboard as the shot is completed.
16)
Action actors cue to perform.
17)
Adjustment/Adj. A raise in a performers Daily rat to compensate for
special requirements such as performing unique abilities (like dancing) or
wearing special make-up.
18)
AFTRA American Federation of TV & Radio Artists.

19)
All Hands On deck/All Hands Said by an A.D (commonly over the
radio)when you hear this, ALL P.A.s stop what theyre working on to help
complete a task where time is a factor. It typically involves moving craft
service and/or video village.
20)
Apple box A pieces of grip equipment used for adding height and
leveling. It is a wooden box NOT used to store apples. Sizes include full, halfapple, quarter-apple and pancake.
21)
Art Department Responsible for arranging the overall look of the movie
as desired by the Producer, director and DP
22)
Art Director in changer of overseeing the people who build and
decorate the ACTUAL set.
23)
Asst. director(s)/The AD Team 1,2,2,2, add I A.D.s, and DGA
trainee.
24)
At Camera/By Camera indicates that cast, crew or a particular item is
on-set. EXAMPLE: Julia Roberts is by camera. She isnt necessarily right next
to the camera, but she is definitely on the set.
25)
B-Camera the second camera.
26)
B-Roll Footage that often doesnt go into the movie. Behind the scenes
footage for the DVD special feature, publicity and interviews.
27)
Back Drop Large image placed in the background to make the set more
believable.
28)
Back on One/Back on One radio term-return to the main channel,
which is CHANNEL 1.
29)
Background Breakdown/breakdown- a summary of BG used, listing work
times and pay amounts.
30)
Background coordinator Person hired by production to check large
amounts of B.G. in and out, get them ready for set an complete the
breakdown. Sometimes an additional 2 A.D. is brought in for the same
purpose.
31)
Background holding/holding Area where extras sit and wait till needed
on set.
32)
Background/BG/Extras/Atmosphere people used to provide human
atmosphere for a scena.
33)
Base Camp/Base area where ALL trailers (cast, make up, hair,
wardrobe) and some production vehicles are kept. Contains the PRODUCTION
trailers, where production assistants REPORT.
34)
Battery Box/Battery Bucket-container for carrying spare batteries, kept
ONSET at ALL times. it holds BOTH cold and hot bricks. Getting the box or
bucket to and from set IS THE P.A.S JOB. YOU are to be sure that at ALL times
there are hot batts, on set.
35)
Battery/biscuit/brick Various names for walkie batteries. Can be HOT
(Charged) or COLD (Dead).
36)
Below the line the costs involved in the actual physical production.
Equipment and labor.
37)
Best boy- chief assistant in changer of staff and equipment in the GRIP
an Electric Departments. The best boy does the following: Returns, exchanges,
purchases, equipment inventories; truck maintenance and all department
paperwork.

38)
Blocking/Blocking Rehearsal/Walk Through A process of figuring out
how actors will move and stand so that camera and lighting may be positioned
accordingly.
39)
Blues 1set of script revisions, so named because theyre printed on
blue paper.
40)
Bogie/Lookie Lou a person in the shit who SHOULD NOT be there!
41)
Boned/Getting Boned something is seriously working against us
making our day.
42)
Boom operator member of the sound department who holds a boom
pole with a microphone on the end over the actors to record dialogue and
ambience.
43)
Bottle episode- Episode of a TV show that doesnt leave stage(s) to go
out on location.
44)
Bounce Board Piece of Grip equipment that bounces light into the
frame or onto the cast.
45)
Box/Kit rental a form (found in the production kit) thats lists
equipment belonging to the employee that is RENTED by the production
company to be used during filming.
46)
Break the Background (for a Half or 1hr.) Background ALWAYS eat
AFTER the crew.
47)
Break/lunch Break Meal Period owed to the crew 6hrs from CREW CALL.
48)
Bump a fixed dollar amount added to an extras daily wage for unusual
circumstances. Must be approved an A.D. Examples: use of their auto, a
haircut, or additional wardrobe. Maked on their voucher under adjustments.
49)
Call sheet-the plan for the days SCHEDULED work. (THIS IS ONE OF THE
MOST IMPORTANT DOCUMENTS FOR A P.A. TO CARRY WITH THEM AT ALL
TIMES.)
50)
Call time/call- A crewmembers individual time to start work day.
51)
Calling in first shot When the first shot is done, the production office
needs to be informed. Someone from the A.D team will call in first shot to
the office. The first shot AFTER LUNCH also needs to be called into the office,
by someone from the A.D team.
52)
Camera car a vehicle to film from usually the truck that tows the
process trailer.
53)
Camera Dept-Department that cares for the camera and its equipment.
54)
Camera Ready the process of putting on screen talent, cast, stunts or
background, through the works this includes: hair, make up, wardrobe, and
props. After they have been put through the works they ARE CAMERA READY.
55)
Camera rehearsal an technical rehearsal for the benefit of the camera
and lighting.
56)
Camera Report An inventory of ALL exposed film and remaining film
stock. A PAs job includes collecting the camera report at wrap for the PR.
57)
Camera truck truck that houses all of the exposed and unexposed film,
as well as various camera accessories. Often parked closest to set.
58)
Camera wrap-when FILMING has finished for the day. Actors are
released, and the crew cleans up and clears their equipment out. The physical
camera is done being used for the day.

59)
Cans/Ears/Comtek combination of headphones and receiver used to
listen what the sound dept. is recording on set. This equipment ALWAYS
belongs to the sound Dept., and you ask to borrow some from them. Never
TAKE comteks without their knowledge.
60)
Cast List- Lists all actors personal contact information.
61)
Catering Department that provides tables, chairs, and THE MEIN meals
for the cast, crew, and background (extras). NOT SNACKS! Not craft service!
Catering is there ONLY to provide HOT meal and the start and middle of the
workday. They will serve 2 meal only on rare occasions.
62)
Catering report-List the number of meals served that day. Goes in the
FOOTBALL.
63)
Cheat CAMERA TERM.to angles a performer or object toward a
particular camera a particular camera. Or to angle a scene in a specific
direction to avoid something that cant be moved from the shot. Actors/objects
in the scene are in a different position from the master shot but will appear to
be in the correct position when filmed.
64)
Check in/Checking in Area away from base camp or set where the
BACKGROUND report.
65)
Check the gate/Checking the gate/ (OR. When you have lots of
experience and get the slang down) Checken @ 8 when the shot is
completed to directors satisfaction, the camera department makes sure there
is no equipment make sure there is no equipment malfunction before moving
on to the next set up.
66)
Clamshell A portable video monitor used for watching what the camera
is recording.
67)
Clear you, a crewmember, or a bogie is in the shot. CLEAR them
from being IN the shot.
68)
Clip/Clip Yourself-radio term you will hear if you are NOT transmitting
properly. It means that either the front or back half of your transmission didnt
come through. You might be told, Hold down the button, THEN talk. Dont
clip yourself!.
69)
Color Cover Wardrobe worn by 2team that matches what the actors
will wear on camera.
70)
Company Idle Production is not filming that day.
71)
Company Move When production travels to a different location during
the workday.
72)
Condor Is a lift, which uses a rigid arm to raise its platform bucket,
over 40 feet in the air. Once in place, light are fastened to it for the purpose of
creating overhead illuminations such as streetlights or moonlight.
73)
Continuity The process of MATCHING hair, make up, wardrobe, props
blocking, etc, from shot to shot. Each department watches their own
continuity, an the script supervisor ensures the continuity of the entire light.
74)
Copy/Copy that Radio term. The response on the radio indicating that
you have heard and understood what is being said. When you contact a
crewmember they will respond copy. ALWAYS RESPONDTO SOMEONE WHO
CALLS YOU OVER THE RADIO, dont leave dead air. You WILL get in troubles for

that. Crewmember: Dan? Dan: Go ahead. Crewmember: can you get me a

call sheet? Dan: copy OR copy that refer to radio recon.
75)
Cover set An indoor location where shooting can continue if poor
weather is predicted.
76)
Coverage/Going in Tighter Process of filming smaller pieces of the
current scene.
77)
Craft Service Department responsible for providing snacks ALL DAY
and cleaning the set.
78)
Crew Cab 4-door stakebed that holds crewmember and equipment in
the back.
79)
Crew Call Time indicating the start of general workday
80)
Crew Parking An area in which the crew parks their cars.
81)
Cube Tap(s) An electrical device, shaped like a cube that plugs into a
wall socket to convert a single socket into many sockets.
82)
Cube truck Large than a stake bed and similar to a small moving van,
this transportation vehicle has a roof. Commercial P.A.s usually drives these.
83)
Cue To let Background or a cast member know it is time to begin their
action. Often an actor will be too far away to hear when they are supposed to
enter a scene, and a P.A. wearing headphones will be tasked with cueing the
actor to enter.
84)
Cut The CURRENT take is OVER. Followed by Going Again, Check
The Gate or moving on
85)
Dailies/Rushes Viewable Footage from the prior days shooting.
86)
Dance Floor (for the camera dolly) if the location floor isnt leveled or
smoothed a better dance floor must be built.
87)
Day Player/Additional/Addl - A temporary employee who works daily.
Could be cast or crew.
88)
Day for night scene shot during the day, which actually takes place in
the script at night. This may be done in a variety of ways, including using
different film stock, filters, or developing procedures. If indoors, by blacking
out all windows and doors and lighting accordingly.
89)
Deal Memo employment agreement between you and the production
company that states what you era hired to do and your pay rate.
90)
Department Head(s)/The Keys The BOSS of each department: Gaffer,
Key grip, Costume designer, Director of photography, sound mixes, prop
master, 1 A.D. Department heads are creatively involved with the director to
achieve the desired outcome.
91)
Departments the crew is broken down into departments. The Dept
Head (1line of each department on the call sheet) is creatively responsible for
the final film. Another member (Best boy, 1A.C, wardrobe supervisor) is
responsible for their departments crew.
92)
DGA DIRECTORS GUILD OF AMERICA. The union for A.D.S and
directors.
93)
DGA Rep OFFICIAL representative of the DGA sent onto set to ensure
that guild conditions and rules are being followed. They report back whether or
not the show is following DGA laws.

94)
DGA trainee Assigned by the DGA training plan, for a limited number of
days. A trainee often has the same responsibilities as a P.A. but has the
authority of an A.D.
95)
Dialed in informing crew who need to be in the loop on something.
96)
Director of photography/DP/Cinematographer person in changer of
composing and lighting the shots. Also responsible for the look of an episode
which must integrate into a series as a whole.
97)
Distro. Paperwork to be handed out, either to departments or to
individual crew- members. Often will come from the office to set, and then
handed out, and Distrod to the crew.
98)
DIT OP/DIT Digital Imaging Technician. The person who provides on set
image manipulation to help the DP achieve the look for the scene. Also
sometimes the tent the DP is in the DIT.
99)
Dolly A four wheeled camera support, which can move on the ground
OR on the tracks allowing the camera to travel smoothly along various s
surfaces. Operated by a DOLLY GRIP.
100)
Dolly grip Grip in change of setting up and moving the dolly and dolly
track.
101)
Drive On A pass to be let onto a studio lot. this may be needed for
work, filing out start paperwork or picking up a paycheck. You should ALWAYS
call the production office before going over to pick up your paycheck and ask
them to leave you a drive on.
102)
E.P.K. (Electronic Press Kit.)-these people visit set with a small crew and
some equipment to record behind the scenes footage, which is used for
publicity and usually ends up on the DVD.
103)
Edge(s) Of Frame The border between what the camera will and will
not see. Camera right, camera left. The cameras right, the cameras left.
104)
Electrician/Juicer/sparks/juice an electrician, or electrician, or
electricity.
105)
Elephant door- The large stage doors that are opened to let in
equipment and closed to prevent sunlight from getting into the set.
106)
Escorting when a production member walks to and from set with an
actor.
107)
Establishing A shot that introduces the audience to the location for the
scene.
108)
Executive Producer- Attached to the project because they own the rights,
found the story, or are hired by the studio to oversee the production.
109)
Extension 30 minute(s) continuation of work for any purpose that
doesnt incur a mea penalty. It can only be used once a day.
110)
Eye line A technique indication where the actor should look for correct
editing of the shots. Also the area within the actors view which must be kept
empty of distraction (particularly for emotional sequences.
111)
Film break/sound & Film Break when all shot footage is prepped and
sent to be processed before the developing company classes for the day.
112)
Final touch- it signals for hair, make up and wardrobe to go onto set and
see that the actors are completely perfect for camera. Picture will be next.
113)
Fire in the Hole! (CALL/SHOUT THIS OUT) a warning indicating
explosions and/or gunfire. Often followed by description of changes.

Depending on the A.D they may, or may not want you to shoot out what the
piro is. Fire in the Hole, 4 gun shots and 2 squibs.
114)
Fire Lane(s) pathway around the stage that is to remain clear of
equipment AT ALL TIMES.
115)
Fire watch To watch the set while the crew takes their meal break.
116)
Fitting(s)/Fit/FT A process of establishing the wardrobe for the cast and
background before they appear on camera. Depending on the needs of the
wardrobe dept. this may be minutes before or weeks in advance.
117)
Firs shot the very first time during the day when the camera rolls.
118)
Firs shot after The very first time AFTER LUNCH when the camera rolls.
119)
Flag On The Play Everyone stop moving on with the day, something in
the current shot must be adjusted or fixed.
120)
Fly the call sheets/Fly em Pass out call sheets to any and all
crewmembers.
121)
Flying in/Flyin in Lest production know that whatever is holding up the
shot is headed to set. Can be an actor, crew or a piece of equipment.
122)
Follow Van Maxi van containing key crew, crafty snacks and water,
extra batteries, and equipment follows the caravan while doing driving shots.
123)
Football Plastic file folder that contains ALL the wrap paperwork to
travel to the office. Its returned to set the next day.
124)
Forced call This can apply to both crew and cast. If production FORCES
a crew or cast member to some to work before their required TURNAROUND.
(See turnaround).
125)
Frame the viewing area as seen by camera.
126)
Frater day work day that begins Friday afternoon/evening and ends
Saturday, around sunrise.
127)
French Hours A day when no lunch break takes place. Generally food is
passed out throughout the day while the crew continues working. There is a
continuous amount of food and no formal lunch. The individual departments
can stagger lunch for themselves. The crew has to vote on this to put it into
effect. This is EXCEEDINGLY RARE.
128)
From the Top/Back to One/Reset Actors/BG to go back to their start
mark.
129)
FSO Fire Safety Officer.
130)
Full House when ALL the cast for the current scene or shot is within
sight of the 1AD and Director in the VERY nearby vicinity of camera.
131)
Full speed Rehearsal A rehearsal done at regular pace from beginning
to end.
132)
G-Job Gopher Job. A task NOT production related, a personal errand
being done on the company tine and DIME. Often something PERSONAL an
A.D. will task you to do while on the clock. Example: get a car washed, food
picked up or to a cell phone repaired.
133)
Gaffer/Chief Lighting technician The head of the ELECTRIC department.
The gaffer takes direction from the DP and director regarding how and where
light is placed.
134)
Gang Boss . In commercials, the head of the transpo Dept.
135)
Gate/Tail Gate/lift Gate A platform at the rear of an equipment truck
that can be raised or lowered to assist loading and unloading.

136)
Go Again radio term used used when you need the last transmission
repeated. Example: Matt can you get me a call sheet from the trailer? Matt:
go again?.
137)
Go ahead Radio term. Response to someone contacting you over the
radio. It means you are listening and ready to hear what they want. EXAMPLE:
Brian? Brian: go ahead.
138)
Going Again/Again Prepare for another take of the last shot.
139)
Gold Room Stage space designated as an office for each production
department.
140)
Gorilla Filmmaking the rules go out the window regarding permits and
required crew and the film is shot on the fly
141)
Grace/Going into Grace 12-minute window that can be used for
ANYTHING production related, as long as it isnt planned. Meal Penalties
begin once those 12 minutes has past.
142)
Green Room Where cast can hang out in between shots if basecamp is
far from set.
143)
Greens construction member who helps create the landscape for the
shot. Often this involves the adding and moving potted plants to build the
desired background.
144)
Grip/Hammer The crewmembers that controls and directs light natural
or created, including shadows. (dont call them hammers. Its bad and
outdated slang.)
145)
Half-Speed Rehearsal A rehearsal being walked though SLOWLY from
top to bottom with more attention being paid to ALL elements, NOT just the
cast PERFORMACE.
146)
Hot the trucks Slang. Means to make sure OFF-SET Production Trucks
have call sheets.
147)
Holding the roll/Hold the Roll The current take is being interrupted
because something/someone is not ready or interfering. Holding for the
plane is common because sound picks up plane engines.
148)
Honey wagon Large 8-room trailer with BATHROOMS.
149)
Hot Points A Bulky or large item is on the move. Look out. This
commonly refers to ladders, but applies to all manner of grip, electric and set
dressing equipment.
150)
Hot Set Any set where FILMING HAS NOT YET FINISHED. DO NOT
TOUCH is the rule. When camera and crew walks away from this set they want
to be able to pick up where they left off. Until ANY set is STRUCK it is NOT to be
touched or messed with in ANY WAY.
151)
I.A.T.S.E./I.A/Y atzee International Alliance of Theatrical Stage
Employees. The umbrella organization for the majority of Union crewmember.
152)
Idiot check A final check of the location to make sure no production
materials are left behind.
153)
Insert Car Pick-up truck which holds necessary crew and equipment for
driving shots. It often tows the process trailer containing a picture car to
simulate driving.
154)
Insert Shot(s) Close ups of props or set Dressing used to help in the
editing of the scene.

155)
ITC- Intermittent Traffic Control: The COPS do this, NOT production
assistants except during special ad very rare situations.
156)
Keep(ing) Eyes On When someone tells you to keep eyes they mean
to watch the cast and dont let them out of your sight. That way when the
A.D.s need them they are easily and quickly located to invite them back to
set.
157)
Key Grip Head of the GRIP Dept. works with the DP and gaffer,
controlling light and also responsible for camera movement.
158)
Keying When your radio is keying, you are transmitting without having
to push the button. Everybody on your channel can hear everything you say
and the only person who doesnt know youre transmitting is YOU. Your radio
may be taken away if you do this more than ONCE.
159)
Kill the____ turn off or get rid of some sound or object that is delaying
the shot.
160)
L & D Loss & Damage Detailed information in regards to
lost/damaged equipment is noted on the P.R.
161)
Last Looks/Final Touches When Hair, Make up, Wardrobe, come in and
double check the absolute minimal needs of the look of their actors.
162)
Last Man This is how a meal break is officially timed. When the LAST
crewmember gets his meal, the P.A. in charge of watching the line announces
Last Man over channel 1. Depending on the show it may be the last person
at the end of the SALD line, or the catering truck. After calling Last Man the
HALF HOUR break starts. NO sooner, OR later.
EXEMPLE: Over the radio you hear, Mike, can you watch the line? Mike will
respond, the go to the catering truck. He WILL NOT BE EATING. He will watch
the crew go through. When he sees brian of the sound department go through
and sees no one else, he will call on the radio to the person still on set,
Renee, is there anyone else on set? Renee says no then Mike looks at his
watch and says over the radio, Last Man. Last Man. A.D.: were back at
2:17. The only information you provide is when the last man goes through.
Let the AD say over DGA and guests. There will be a last man SEPERATELY for
background. If a crewmember arrives late to lunch it does NOT restart the
lunch break clock.
163)
Layout Board LARGE pieces of cardboard used to protect surfaces
(especially the floor) where equipment may go.
164)
Line Producer see Unit Production Manager.
165)
Load Vans/Loading Vans Vans will line up at a pick up and or drop off
point the job here is to FILL the van from the REAR to capacity, the driver may
or MAY NOT Know where to drop the passengers off, gently AND kindly remind
them of their destination.
166)
Location the overall working area where filming is taking place.
167)
Location Rep/ (On) side rep/loc. Liaison The person with the shooting
location that knows what is and isnt ALLOWED and where everything Air
conditioning, bathroom is located.
168)
Lock it Up/Lock Up P.A.s are placed in specific places to control crowds,
prevent people (including crew) and vehicle for walking/driving into the shot or
dangerous area, staring at the camera, or making noise when they are near

camera. A lock up applies to sound and visual control. Often an A.D will brief
their P.A.s about safety and breaking your look up. If someone DOES break
your lock up, which could put him or her or anyone else in danger you must
call it over the radio (the 1 might want to hold off the stunt until it is safe to
continue.)
169)
Looking Walkie Term. When an A.D. calls over the walkie /radio that
theyre looking for somebody, a P.A. responds by saying Looking or else the
A.D. believes nobody heard him.
170)
Love/Give A Little Love Slang term for make-up and hair to touch up
the cast.
171)
Lunch Box Specific type of trailer used for eating or holding meeting.
ALSO a piece of Electric gear that allows multiple cords (6-12) to be plugged
into a single power source.
172)
Lunch Report Piece of paper from the script supervisor after lunch is
called that shows how production is doing with the days schedule.
173)
Make it Safe Crewmembers who are making noise, or are in the mile
of setting something up must secure what theyre doing and then be quiet.
174)
Make the day Complete all the work the 1 A.D. has scheduled on that
days call sheet.
175)
Make Up station(s)/Hair station(s)/Hair, Make UP Tables Portables tables
used by additional Hair and Make-Up when there is no room or need for them
to be in the trailer. It comes in 2 pieces (mirror and table) or as a 1 piece set.
176)
Make up trailer /Hair & Make up trailer/ Hair Make Up A trailer where
the actors are prepared for camera, and all the make up tables and hair
products are stored and maintained.
177)
Mark(s) Camera Mark(s) Camera Term. The place the actor will stand in
or meet so the camera knows where to focus. It can be tape or chalk in the
form of the letter T, a dime, or (in grass) a golf tee.
178)
Martini LAST shit of the day.
179)
Martini series Get ready to do MORE than ONE of that last shot.
180)
Master The widest shot in the scene.
181)
Mini Move/Stakebed move COMPANY MOVE where work trucks and
base camp stay put.
182)
Monitor Small TV used to watch what the camera is recording.
183)
MOS meaning mit out sound. A shot where sound isnt recorded.
Often, you still need to lock up for sound so the cast and crew can concentrate.
184)
Movie Magic Old name for commonly used scheduling program. Now
called EP Scheduler.
185)
Moving On /New Deal (heard after check the gate). The director is
happy with the shot and is ready to set up another, whether it is a different
angle or an entirely new scene.
186)
MPV MEAL PENALTY VIOLETION. When the production violates the
required meal break for the crew, cast, and background, the production
company has to pay a violation price. NON-UNION can only incur ONE penalty.
Refer to Drill Sergeant.
187)
NDB Non-Deductibles Breakfast it is not deducted from your
check. For 15 minutes in the morning OFF the clock ALL CAST AND
BACKGROUND are entitled to a 15 minute breakfast. If production violates the

15 minutes they can incur a MPV. These 15 minutes brings you up to crew call.
EXAMPE: If BG comes in at 6.0 and crew is 7.0, the BGs NDB is 6:45 A-7 A.
188)
Non-Union Part of the crew or cast that does not belong to a union,
sag, or I.A.T.S.E.A show can be SAG and not union, a show can be DGA and not
union.
189)
Off Camera when someone (usually an actor, script supervisor, director
or A.D.) is not in frame but helps a fellow cast member with in their
performance, either supplying dialogue (like narration), or an Eye Line for the
actor to look and react too.
190)
Off Campus when a person is not ANYWHERE near production.
191)
Off Load The process of removing equipment from a truck or stakebed.
192)
Official Lunch when the 1A.D. calls lunch, the script supervisor tracks
when the crew broke, they are the official timekeeper. Often asked over the
walkie (what was official lunch?)
193)
Official Wrap When the 1 calls wrap.
194)
On a Bell/Lets go on a bell What you will hear when working on
stage. BEFORE the 1 calls rolling they will say, Lets go on a bell. This
stage provided system alerts the crew of rolls and cut. 1 bell ring = ROLLING 2
bell rings = CUT. A Light (usually red) will go on during the roll.
195)
On call No call time that YOU know of. O/C or N/C (No Call) on the call
sheet.
196)
On the move-Phrased used when the crew moves to a new location.
197)
Out Times - Time when each crewmember finishes work. Recorded on a
time sheet and then added to the PR. When they leave for their personal
vehicles at the VERY END of the night, P.A.s, gather Out times. The times will
be yelled out, said over the radio, on recorded on TIME SHEET, which will be
handed to you, be each individual department to the P.A. collecting out
times. Always in military time. EXEMPLE: Props is out 23.4 Sound is out
17.9. it is how accounting paper work is done, the mathematical system we
use in production.
198)
Outside the zone/Out of the Zone- When the location is more than 50
miles from the stage.
199)
Over the shoulder Camera shot behind one characters shoulder
capturing another character.
200)
P.O.V. Point Of View Scene filmed directly from (usually) a persons
line of sight. Sometimes you shoot a p.o.v that the person steps into and it
becomes an over (over the shoulder).
201)
P.A. Bomb expression used to describe too many P.A.s huddled in one
area. P.A.s are often spread out isolated from other members of their
department.
202)
Pass Van/Van/Shuttle Van There are MANY industry terms for it,
however it is NOT a cargo van. Driven by TRANSPORTATION, they transport
cast, crew and Background. You can gent a van any ANYTIME by going to
channel 3 and calling for one.
203)
Permit/Location Permit this is the legal document the city issues
stating in writing what the production is and isnt allowed to do, where they
can and cannot go, and how long theyre allowed to be at the location.
204)
Per Diem Money paid daily to crew for meals and expenses while
shooting out of town.
205)
Photo Double/Body Double a person used substitute for the principal
actor in specific shots.

206)
Photo Prevention P.A. a P.A. hired to prevent the paparazzi from getting
photos of anything the show wants to keep secret. Examples: Picture cars, Iron
Man wardrobe, the set of indy, and so on.
207)
Pick-Up shot/Pick-Up/Picking it up A shot that was not completed, from
a previous day. Also refers to going again on just a piece of the previous take.
208)
Picture Car(s) Cars used in the shot. Could be driven by a character,
Stunt man OR Background. It is rented from a rental company, and taken care
of by TRANSPORTATION.
209)
Picture Car Captain Member of transpo. Designated to oversee all
picture cars.
210)
Pictures Up/ Here we go - shooting time. Followed by Rolling For a
PA this means to LOCK IT UP and KEEP IT QUIET. Refer to CALL OUT/SHOUT
OUT List.
211)
Pitch and Catch/Meet and Greet When the P.A.,A.D or trainee in charge
of base camp says that a cast member is leaving base camp unescorted (the
pitch), somebody from set moves to catch and escort the cast DIRECTLY to
camera.
212)
Plate shot(s) Background scenery that will be joined with Digital
Effects. When Spiderman swings through New York, a camera shoots the
background plates and Spidey is added in later.
213)
Playback (audio) An audio element usually a song needs to be
played during the filming of the scene. Most common on music videos, but can
be found in all kinds of productions. This is handled by the Sound Mixer.
214)
Playback (Video) allows the necessary crew to review a recent take.
This s the job the video playback operator and is most common when the
director and is most common when filming camera elements for special effects
or when he director is also acting on camera.
215)
Political Hire a crewmember that has been forced upon a department.
EXAMPLE: A political P.A. is a P.A. who has not bee hired by the choice of an
A.D. , but more so ASSIGNED to that department by someone above the line,
or the UPM.
216)
Poor Mans Process The vehicle is stationary an equipment is moved
around it to make it look like its moving. Often done of stage.
217)
PR-PRODUCTION REPORT Daily form that records ALL information of
work that was done. Used to calculate money spent. Looks similar like a call
sheet.
218)
Pre-Call Time BEFORE CREW CALL when certain crew come in BEFORE
the main crew to prep or Pre-Ring something that needs extra time to get it
ready for the scene. Electric often takes pre calls so they can set up all the
cords to plug equipment into the company generator.
219)
Precision Driver(s) People booked as background hired for their driving
skills only, they accurately drive and will do the same action over and over
again repeat a driving pattern accurately. They dont speed, crash or screech.
(bill young is the primary provider of precision drivers. They are often referred
to as bill young.
220)
Prelim/Mock Preliminary version of the CALL SHEET done up by the 2
A.D. as a rough draft. It goes out department heads and best boys so they
can see the pending work for tomorrow and discuss with the A.D.s any
additional staffing or equipment requirements.
221)
Pre-Production/Prep/Pre Pro the process where the crew is hired, the
location are found, the script is revised and equipment is rented. PREPARING

for the shooting days ahead. Known as Prep in Movies and TV and Pre Pro in
Commercials and Music videos.
222)
Prep Schedule/Daily Schedule Pre-Production schedule of Department
Meetings, casting sessions and Scouts.
223)
Pre-Rig When a Department (usually Grip) needs to prepare a set or
picture car for filming before the main crew arrives.
224)
Print The take is good enough to be circled and used for the final cut.
225)
Process trailer - The Picture Car will be on a trailer that moves. It gives
the appearance that the car is moving when in actuality the car is being
pulled.
226)
Producer The Manager. Responsible for making sure the entire
company (above and below the line) creates the desired film product as
efficiently as possible.
227)
Product Placement A deal Between the advertising agency and the
production company/studio to showcase a companys products. Showing
products in a movie requires clearance.
228)
Production designer Head of the Art Department. Helps establisher the
overall visual design of the sets and locations.
229)
Production secretary a non-union (O.P.C) Production secretary is a step
up from office P.A. This position is show pending. It is whats known as a
glorified office p.a. They directly assist the coordinator and the A.P.O.C.
230)
Props Anything handled by an actor during a scene, it may also be a
wardrobe item. Hat on table, set dressing, hat in hand prop hat o head
wardrobe.
231)
Pull the Plug- Wrap something, often against the directors wishes.
When a director is taking too much time or filming too many takes a producer
will pull the plug and wrap for the day.
232)
Pumpkin Time when a mirror has to be sent home. Turns into a
Pumpkin at 5:00
233)
Radio Check Radio Term used to be sure you are transmitting and
receiving.
234)
Rain Tower(s) A LARGE overhead sprinkler system used to create rain
FX. Can control both the temperature and intensity of the rain.
235)
Rate Wage. How much you make for you guaranteed time of work
before overtime i.e $125/12, which means $125 for 12 hours of work.
236)
Recall Bring back someone to work again, at a later date.
237)
Rehearsal Un-filmed walk though of a scene, usually done by the
principal actors.
238)
Re-Rate When a crewmember job changes during the days work that
causes a bump in their pay. Happens often during a splinter Unit.
239)
Re-shoots - To go back and re-film a scene or shot that didnt play right
or cut together. Re-Shoot are done AFTER initial principal photography is
COMPLETE and a sometimes, ENTIRELY DIFFERENT crew goes back and shoots
the same work, again from the start.
240)
Reverse the shot that is turned a proximately 180 degrees in relation
to the previous shot. Example on the radio will be, Reverse on Julia. OR
Going in for the reverse on Adam.
241)
Revisions Script rewrites produced during shooting and printed on
different color pages to distinguish when they were done. If you receive them,
immediately inform the 2 A.D. because it could affect the current scene
and/or the days work.

242)
Rolling Sound is rolling. Camera is speeding. Dialog is being recorded;
the image is being put on film. Making the movie now
243)
Room Tone When sound rolls and picks up the hum of the room, ONLY.
No dialog, no voice over, just the sounds of the environment in which the
scene just took place.
244)
Safety Meeting(s) When the 1 A.D. calls safety meeting the P.A.s
gather ALL crew to camera to discuss safety issues affecting the days work.
Usually held at the beginning of the day, at a new location, for stuns or FX.
Always recorded on the P.R.
245)
SAG Screen Actors Guild.
246)
Scout Usually done in prep, the Location department travels with the
director and sometimes producers, to view the location options for film and
approved them. (See Tech Scout).
247)
Script Report/Scripty Report Daily report created by the script
supervisor that covers: set ups, time, page, scenes, sound tapes film stock or
tape, continuity, first shot, lunch, and first shot and after lunch. At wrap, a P.A.
is to pick up the report from script. The report is handed to the A.D. that is
wrapping out.
248)
Set Up Each time the camera moves to new place on set, its called a
set up. Each scene requires a certain number of the set ups (the master and
coverage), and the pace of a show is often judged by the number of set ups
accomplished in day.
249)
Shot list List of set-ups the director hopes to get for that days work.
Occasionally used and usually only seen by the dept. heads because shot are
often added or dropped.
250)
Shotmaker Large vehicle used to capture dangerous driving shots or
tow and insert car. Cameras are mounted to it and it usually holds a few crew.
(see insert car).
251)
Sides/Minis Pocket-sized pages of the script scheduled to be show that
day. Un-scheduled scenes are crossed out and a call sheet is stapled to top.
Sides are available for cast and crew each day. P.A.s carry spare sets at all
time.
252)
Skeleton crew An EXTREMELY SMALL crew, the department heads and
no support crew.
253)
Skins background paperwork term. Comes with the vouchers, listing all
the names and needed information of each extra that will be working on the
day.
254)
Slider- Common piece of grip equipment consisting of 1 or 2 metal rails
(often called speed railis) and a flat wheeled surface (metal or wood) with a
mount for the camera. Sliders are and economical way to create dynamic
moves without the cost or a dolly.
255)
Sound Report(s) created by the mixer. Details each take including DAT
#and time code.
256)
Spec(s) spectators. People who want to work as background but were
not booked through a casting service or the production. Their names often go
on a spec list.
257)
Splinter Unit A small portion of the crew that breaks off from what he
main crew is doing, usually to film insert, driving or plate shots.
258)
Split/splits planning to film BOTH day and night work. The call time is
later in the day, and often the mail break will occur around sunset.

259)
Squib/squib hit small explosive charge controlled by Efx. Clothing, or
furniture. They install it with help from department they need. Often it will be
attached to a blood pack used to simulate a bullet hit on the body.
260)
Staggered Call when a department has different start times for their
crew. Very common with hair/make up, wardrobe and production. This also
applies to background, whose calls are often, staggered throughout the day.
261)
Staging Area/equipment staring an area close to set for cam, grip
electric to be able to get anything on to set without running all the way from
the truck.
262)
Stakebed The smallest type of truck for moving equipment. It has no
roof and opens via a latched gate.
263)
Status call sheet term. W=work H=hold S=start D=drop Tr=travel
F=finish RH=rehearsal PU=pick up (see D.O.O.D.)
264)
Steppage radio term. When two people transmit at the same time and
you cant understand what either of them. When two people transmit at the
same time and you cant understand what either of them are saying.
265)
Still rolling going again without cutting.
266)
Stinger Extension cord for electric. P.A.s are often sent to electricians
to get stingers for the 2 A.D.s computer and make-up and hair stations.
267)
Storyboard/boards/director boards - A visual breakdown of what the
shots (composition & lighting) should look like. Commonly given to only the
D.P., Dir., and A.D.s.
268)
Striking -1) Removing. Film equipment, furniture or props from a set or
location or even the actual set itself is to be packed up and sent away. 2) When
an electrician calls out striking watch your eyes. A bright light is being
turned on.
269)
Studio teacher/welfare worker crewmember responsible for the welfare
and schooling of minors working on set.
270)
Surfing/surf the channels when lunch is called, a P.A. informs ALL radio
channels that the crew has broken for lunch. SOMETIMES, this same system
will apply to wrap.
271)
Switching radio term. Changing to another channel.
272)
Tail Lights/hard out Slang for what time a production must completely
vacate a location. Its always, dictated by the permit. (tail light at 11)
273)
Tech. scout scout where ALL dept. heads view the filming locations
CHOSEN by the director.
274)
Time sheet/daily time sheet piece of paper that each department
writes the following information on DAILY: IN TIME, OUT TIME, NDB, LUNCH
TIME, names of the crew in their department, Re-Rates, and MPVs.
275)
To Be Completed/If Not Complete Call sheet term listed on the front of
a call sheet among the scenes. We started or planned to start filming the
scene(s) yesterday, and today we plan to finish filming them.
276)
To Begin Call sheet term listed on the front of a call sheet among the
scenes. It means that we will begin filming the following scene(s), but we do
not expect to complete them today.
277)
Touch Ups Extensive check of the look of each cast member. Always
happens after lunch.
278)
Transportation Department/Transpo. /399 responsible for moving
equipment and vehicles between various location AND sets. When switching to
channel 3 on your radio and trying to contact someone in this department hit
you mic button and out transportation or 399. This is a respectful formality,
they may not respond to transpo.

279)
Turnaround the amount of off work hours a crew or cast member gets.
Every departments turnaround time is different and must be honored by the
production. If it is not its a forced call.
280)
Turning around Generally when filming a scene, the camera looks in
one direction and grabs all the coverage with small lighting adjustments
between set ups. When you hear the 1 AD say turning around that, means
the camera will start looking in the other direction. This is the longest
downtime between shots and it usually indicates that the scene is finished.
281)
Unit production manager (UPM) Manages production from a financial
perspective to help the director get he wants and needs. Signs paychecks and
supervises expenditures. Responsible for bringing the projet in on time and on
budget. Often shares duties with a line producer.
282)
Vanities Nickname for Hair, Make-up and Wardrobe department. Do not
address anyone by this term. Just know it is a term used by production.
283)
Video village Video monitor set up where the director can watch
filming. This is where script supervisor will mostly likely be.
284)
Voice Over (VO) Inner thoughts or dialogue by an unseen narrator. The
script supervisor, Director or 1 AD wil read the VO out loud so everyone can
watch the timing of the shot.
285)
Voucher(s) Form provided by the casting company given to background
when they arrive and check in. it is their time card. Production MUST sign off
on it or they will NOT get paid.
286)
VTR - Video tape recorder this term applies to BOTH tape and/or digital
recordings/equipment.
287)
Walk Away When production can leave their equipment over night.
Nothing has to be loaded or put away, just drop and walk. This term also
applies to a meal break. The company walks away for their lunch for an hour
when a lunch is NOT PROVIDED.
288)
Walking Meal/Walking 2 - Meal served HOT that is available to the crew
6 hours AFTER lunch, the second meal of the they can eat while continuing to
work. RARELY the crew will be broken for a full sit down second meal.
289)
Wardrobe trailer trailer where the wardrobe is kept and cared for.
Fittings are sometimes done in the wardrobe trailer, often there are washers
and dryers in the trailer, and the only people permitted IN the trailer are
people the wardrobe department allows.
290)
Watch(ing) the line At lunch, a P.A.is assigned to watch the line, call
Last Man, and give the time the company comes back in from lunch.
291)
Water Truck Vehicle containing a BULK SUPPLY of water used for
creating a wet look on outdoor locations that some filmmakers like. It may also
be used as a source for rain effects. On hand when doing pyro or working in
dry/fire risk locations.
292)
Wet down when an outdoor location is covered by water. If it was to
ACTUALLY rain the continuity of the scene will not be ruined, if the location is
dusty or windy this will reduce the amount of debris in the air. It also gives
nighttime scenes a slick, visual look.
293)
Wild Line/Wild Track Dialogue or noises that were not clearly heard in
the performance, that needs to be re-recorded for sound. Done while filming.
294)
Working truck- Generally refers to grip, electric, camera trucks, sound
(trailer) props, paint, set dressing, FX, Libra head, and techno. Crane. The main
trucks that crew work out of, and store equipment in that are with the show for
its duration. They tend to be close to set.

295)
Works/the works-An actor who is in hair/make up. They are going
through the works.
296)
Worm/Hose/Snake A portable Air conditioning unit with a large, yellow
SNAKE-LIKE hose attached. A P.A. will drag the snake on and off set between
takes to keep everyone cool. Because the unit makes noise, the P.A. will also
turn it OFF during takes.
297)
Wrangling Making sure Extras or cast are where they need to be, doing
what they should be doing, and informing them of what they need to know.
CLIFF NOTES PROCCES
1. Check them in. 2. Let them eat IF the
2 A.D. thinks theres time. (A.D.s prefer to have their background READY,
BEFORE allowing them to eat.) 3. Wardrobe NEXT STEPS SRE SHOW PENDING.
4. Make up and hair process and approval. 5. Props. 6. Bring them to set. 7.
Sign them out. (when this applies to cast you just keep your eyes open and be
aware of where they are.)
298)
Wrap DONE FILMING for the day, OR for the ENTIRE SHOW.
299)
Wrap Out Packing everything up so it can move to the next location or
back to stage.
300)
Wrap Report Created by the script supervisor at the end of the night
and called into the office. It gives the status of the days work, seeping the
UPM informed with what has happen on set.