Most work environments require teamwork to some degree. In the video world, being able to work as a part of a production crew is no different.
When it comes to video production (especially for corporate video) one of the worst things that can happen is a dysfunctional video production crew. It is a breeding ground for frustration, stifled creativity, and lack of innovation. It is also downright unprofessional. A video production crew should operate unanimously and as a single unit.
Of all the top video crew complaints we’ve encountered in the past, these made the top of the list:
1. Punctuality Becomes an Issue
Ever have that one boss who just doesn’t care whether you walk in 15-30 minutes late?
No?
Oh.
In a video production, the rigid corporate rules apply a lot less. A lot of times production runs slightly off schedule due to circumstances outside of the crew’s control (e.g. weather, traffic, a Santa Claus parade, etc.). However, when it comes to on-set production, more often than not you’re operating on rented space. Typically, you have a set amount of time to shoot in a permitted area. It means that, like any job, punctuality is important. It also means that, unlike any job, you can’t put in as much “overtime” hours on set unless you’ve specifically paid for that location. Time is money.
2. Annoying Habits Become Loathed Pet Peeves
Does one of your crew members regularly chew bubble gum? Click pens? Stomp their foot impatiently? All of these things might seem tolerable at first, but after 12-16 hour shoots, it might not seem as cute. Communicate with your crew members about the tendencies that bother you and try to come to a peaceful resolution before things get ugly.
3. Long Hours
For the unaddressed habits to even get to you, you need a team that can withstand the distance in the first place. Your production crew should consist of people who are experienced in long production sets and know how things work. Work with people who don’t complain incessantly about the long hours required to get a job done. That is the last thing you need at the end of a long day when everyone’s energy is waning.
4. Work Ethic
Equally as important, you need a team with a strong work ethic. A top notch video production crew not only knows their way around equipment but is also able to put that knowledge to use. Make sure everyone is working just as hard (or better yet, harder) than you are on set. Who knows? You might finish on time.
5. Recurring Work Gigs
Like-minded crew members often work together on different sets. If you want a fighting chance at being called back by a new or existing client, remember that impressions are everything. If your crew seemed intolerable, idle, late or annoying the last time, well, we can’t say whether or not you’ll be asked to return again.
It’s important to keep these things in mind before you and your crew decide to take on a project. We at Key West Video have finessed the art of video production and have chosen our production team wisely. For more information on the services we provide, visit our website today!
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