Craft Services Job Tips

Nicole A.
Arrive on Set during Setup
Never arrive on a film set at the same time actors are scheduled to come. The craft services job position will require you to be ready as cast and crew are arriving on set. The food should be prepared in advance and setup at least 30 minute prior to their arrival. Being prompt during morning film shoots are especially important for performing a craft services job. Arriving early gives you time to heat foods that should be served warm and put cold food on ice. An early arrival time can also help craft services professionals find out where their supplies will be situated during the production. Find out where the bathrooms are located and whether or not there is water supply to make it possible to clean utensils or serving equipment if there are food accidents.

Stock more than Refreshments at the Craft Services table
A craft services job requires you to bring lots of snacks, finger food and beverages but do not limit your inventory to these items. Keep a large supply of first aid tools, medicine, wet towels, heating pads, ice packs and other related items for cast and crew. This will allow you to be prepared if someone shows up to the film set with a hangover or sudden injury. Men and women performing a craft services job has the responsibility of keeping cast and crew energized. There is a lot of gratitude for the craft services department that goes above and beyond their call of duty to keep film productions alert, satisfied and on schedule.

Claim your Department
on every Film Set Some film productions may not be well organized, especially on independent projects. Make it easier for cast and crew members to know where the craft services table is located. Make signs and post them around the film set with directions or have someone announce your location if necessary. Claiming the craft services department can help to prevent confusion and stress among staff members during a film shoot. A craft services job may require you to improvise when setting up an area where staff can get snacks. You may need to find a space where tables can be setup if this task was not planned out beforehand by production staff members.

Make a variety of Snacks Available
While the craft services job usually involves basic refreshments, do not limit these options for cast and crew members. Serve a variety of snacks that may or may not include chips, pretzels, cookies, breakfast bars, fruit, cereal, muffins and donuts. Research other film productions to find out what was served when working to complete your first craft services job. There should also be a variety of beverages including coffee, tea, water and milk in both caffeinated and decaffeinated options. Make condiments such as sugar, honey, cream and other items readily available.

Published by Nicole A. - Featured Contributor in Arts & Entertainment

She has written and produced several short movies. She currently works as a freelance editor while continuing to make independent films.  View profile

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