Which Schedule?
I’m often surprised at the number of people who don’t know that ADs create more than one kind of schedule. Frequently, experienced crew members will come into the office and ask for “the” schedule, only to be baffled when I ask, “which one?” So, here’s a quick primer on what’s what: The most common schedule […]
The Stage is Dark, and Full of Terrors
If you’re new to the business, two things about lighting will probably surprise you: night exterior scenes are actually really bright, and sound stages are really dark. In the second case, the reason is control. You don’t want light leaking onto the set from open doors or anything like that. Electricians will, of course, set up […]
Where to Find a Job
One of the most common questions{{1}} I get asked is, “Where do I look for jobs?” The first and best option is: people you know. Every week or two that you’re out of work, you should email (or text, as appropriate) people you’ve worked with, and let them know you’re available. That’s not just former […]
Meet Other TAPA Readers in Los Angeles
This blog has been around for a while, now. We’re proud to have so many friends, followers, and readers from all over the world. But today’s post is primarily for those of you who live in Los Angeles. As much fun as the comments section can be, I think it’s time that some of you meet […]
Payday!
Thursday, for most shows, is payday.{{1}} It’s a wonderful time for payroll accountants, because they suddenly become the most popular people on the show. But for us in the production office, it’s a deluge of phone calls, asking the same question, over and over: “Are paychecks coming today?” YES, PAY CHECKS ARE COMING TODAY! Paychecks […]
You Are Not a Teamster
When a regular driver license just doesn’t cut it.
“Balance”
Dave asks: I’m about to graduate from college, move back to my home town, then get married all in the next year. Compounded with needing a real (read: paying) job, I’m finding my self worried about making ends meet and still making it in the business. What would you say is the right balance between […]
How To Open a Case of Paper
One weird trick!