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Each of the following pages provides an in-depth look at the responsibilities, expectations, and skills required for each volunteer role at Cogknockers Filmmaking Co. Volunteering is a unique opportunity to gain hands-on experience in independent filmmaking, and while unpaid, all volunteers will receive credit in the final film and invitations to special screenings.
Role Summary: The Camera Crew is responsible for setting up, operating, and maintaining cameras to capture high-quality footage. They work closely with the cinematographer and director to execute the visual style of the film.
Responsibilities:
Assist in setting up and calibrating cameras, tripods, dollies, and stabilizers.
Operate the camera during shoots, following direction from the cinematographer.
Manage focus pulling, aperture adjustments, and lens changes.
Ensure proper framing, exposure, and movement for each shot.
Work with the lighting team to achieve the desired visual aesthetic.
Maintain and transport camera equipment safely.
Assist with data wrangling, offloading footage, and organizing media files.
Ideal Skills:
Basic to advanced knowledge of digital cinema cameras.
Understanding of exposure, composition, and focus pulling.
Ability to work in various weather conditions and terrains.
Strong communication and teamwork skills.
Role Summary: The Sound Team captures clear and balanced audio during filming, minimizing unwanted noise and ensuring all dialogue and ambient sounds are recorded properly.
Responsibilities:
Set up and operate boom microphones, wireless lavalier mics, and other recording devices.
Monitor sound levels and minimize background noise using professional recording techniques.
Work closely with the director and camera crew to ensure the microphone remains out of frame while still capturing optimal sound.
Assist with syncing audio with video files in post-production.
Maintain and troubleshoot audio equipment on set.
Ideal Skills:
Knowledge of microphone placement and audio recording techniques.
Familiarity with audio recording devices, mixers, and wireless transmitters.
Strong listening skills and attention to detail.
Role Summary: The Grip & Electric department is responsible for setting up and managing all lighting, rigging, and electrical components of a film set to ensure proper illumination and visual consistency.
Responsibilities:
Set up lighting fixtures, softboxes, reflectors, and diffusers.
Adjust lighting setups to match different shooting conditions and moods.
Secure and maintain rigging equipment such as C-stands, clamps, and sandbags.
Run and manage power cables safely, ensuring proper electrical distribution.
Work with the cinematographer to shape and control light sources.
Assist in set teardown and equipment storage.
Ideal Skills:
Basic understanding of electrical safety and power distribution.
Physical stamina to lift and move heavy equipment.
Ability to troubleshoot lighting issues quickly on set.
Role Summary: Location Specialists are responsible for scouting, securing, and managing filming locations, ensuring they meet production needs while complying with legal and environmental regulations.
Responsibilities:
Research and scout potential filming locations.
Secure permits and permissions for shooting in public and private spaces.
Coordinate logistics such as parking, access, and power availability.
Ensure locations are left in good condition post-shoot.
Manage site security and crowd control if necessary.
Ideal Skills:
Strong organization and communication skills.
Ability to negotiate and coordinate with property owners and authorities.
Familiarity with local filming regulations.
Role Summary: The Wardrobe and Makeup department ensures actors are dressed and styled according to the film’s aesthetic and time period while maintaining continuity throughout the shoot.
Responsibilities:
Select, prepare, and maintain costumes and accessories.
Assist actors with wardrobe changes and fitting.
Apply and touch up makeup, ensuring consistency throughout the shoot.
Maintain a continuity log for hair, makeup, and costume changes.
Collaborate with the director to ensure character appearances align with the film’s vision.
Ideal Skills:
Knowledge of period-specific fashion and makeup techniques.
Basic sewing and costume repair abilities.
Attention to detail for continuity purposes.
Role Summary: Production Assistants (PAs) provide general support to all departments, ensuring the set runs smoothly and efficiently.
Responsibilities:
Assist in setting up and breaking down equipment and props.
Manage craft services, ensuring cast and crew are hydrated and fed.
Help coordinate schedules and keep the production on track.
Run errands for production staff, including equipment pickup and delivery.
Support any department that requires extra hands on set.
Ideal Skills:
Strong multitasking and problem-solving abilities.
Ability to follow instructions and work under pressure.
Positive attitude and willingness to help wherever needed.
Role Summary: The Camp Organizer manages logistics for cast and crew at remote filming locations, ensuring everyone has access to necessary supplies, food, and accommodations.
Responsibilities:
Coordinate lodging, camping arrangements, and basic accommodations.
Oversee meal planning and distribution for the crew.
Maintain supply inventory and manage restocking as needed.
Ensure comfort and safety at overnight locations.
Assist with transportation coordination for crew and equipment.
Ideal Skills:
Strong organizational and logistical planning abilities.
Experience managing large groups in outdoor settings.
Basic knowledge of first aid and outdoor survival skills.
Role Summary: Drivers are responsible for transporting cast, crew, and equipment safely between locations.
Responsibilities:
Operate production vehicles to transport crew members and gear.
Assist with loading and unloading equipment.
Ensure vehicles are well-maintained and fueled.
Follow strict safety protocols and adhere to schedules.
Ideal Skills:
Valid driver’s license with a clean record.
Experience driving large vehicles (vans, trucks) is a plus.
Strong navigation and time management skills.
Role Summary: The Drone Operator captures aerial footage to enhance the film’s visual storytelling, providing stunning perspectives and dynamic shots.
Responsibilities:
Ideal Skills:
These roles offer a unique opportunity to be part of a dynamic and creative filmmaking experience. If you’re interested in volunteering, fill in the out the form below with your name, relevant experience (if any), and preferred roles. We look forward to working with you!
Every now and again, we may send out updates about our projects or other items of interest. We definitely don’t have the time, nor the patience to spam you.
Cogknockers Filmmaking Co. is the independent creative studio of writer and director E.W. Key, dedicated exclusively to passion-driven filmmaking.
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