The Black and Blue

Filmmaking Tips for Camera Assistants

  • Blog
  • Camera Guides
  • Menu
  • 
  • Blog
  • Videos
  • Free Ebook
  • Pocket Guides
  • Topics
    • Behind the Lens
    • Camera Assisting
    • Cameras
    • Getting Work
    • Industry News
    • Miscellaneous Tips
    • Production Stories
    • Toolkit
    • Website
  • Subscribe
  • Contact
  • About The Black and Blue
  • Sponsorship
  • Comment Policy
  • Privacy Policy
  • Disclosure
  • 
  • U
  • 
  • R
  • @
  • Q
  • ˆ
  • ‰
×
Miscellaneous Tips

Miscellaneous Tips

How to survive in the film industry: from setiquette to crafty

Most Recent Articles in "Miscellaneous Tips"

Page 7

Film Grip on Grip Truck Sorting Through Tools

27 Ways You Can Stay Busy On Set

by Evan LuziMiscellaneous Tips

  • 14

Here’s a list of things to do when you want to appear like a hard worker, put yourself ahead of schedule, or simply kill some time.

Read More
Prop Guns Don't Kill People, Accidents Do

Prop Guns Don’t Kill People, Accidents Do

by Evan LuziMiscellaneous Tips

  • 18

After editing and sound mixing, films make it appear as if characters are being shot dead, but we as audiences know it’s just effects. The truth is, however, those scenes are still filmed by a production crew with props, replicas, and sometimes even real firearms.

Read More
Why You Should Buy the Dolly Grip a Beer

Why You Should Buy the Dolly Grip a Beer

by Evan LuziMiscellaneous Tips

  • 5

Here’s three reasons why a dolly grip is important to you and, if you want to keep your job, you should make sure to buy them a beer or two on occasion.

Read More
The Lazy Way to Take Your Own Production Stills

The Lazy Way to Take Your Own Production Stills

by Evan LuziMiscellaneous Tips

  • 12

The memories I make while filming are important to me, so that’s why I stole an idea to help me document each shoot I’ve been on. Every production is a journey, are you able to document yours?

Read More
Spike Jonze, Cardboard Cutouts, and Pulling Pranks On Set

Spike Jonze, Cardboard Cutouts, and Pulling Pranks On Set

by Evan LuziMiscellaneous Tips

  • 12

Spending days working long hours often leads to silliness and pranks on set. Whether that means sending a PA to go find a bag of T-Stops or simply making your own 40mm lens, a crew goofing off is a crew that is building teamwork. And a crew that works as a team gets things done. Spike Jonze knows this and he’s seen it first hand.

Read More
5 Rules to Help You Dress for Success On Film Sets

5 Rules to Help You Dress for Success On Film Sets

by Evan LuziMiscellaneous Tips

  • 33

In the old days of Hollywood, back before talkies ruled and when cameras were still cranked with film, burly men would wear suits on sets and sweat their butts off. Not today. These days dressing for filmmaking is a different game all about comfort and common sense. Here’s 5 rules to stick by to stay comfortable on set so you can focus on doing your job right.

Read More
Heather Short Film Crew

Are You Making Friends On Set?

by Evan LuziMiscellaneous Tips

  • 14

Filmmaking is a uniquely collaborative medium that brings together many people towards one creative goal. The people are also one of the best reasons to stick around. A good friend on set has the potential to become a good friend forever. Do you stay in touch with those you work with?

Read More
Don't Waste Time with Camera Movement

Don’t Waste Time with Camera Movement

by Evan LuziMiscellaneous Tips

  • 6

Cinema is built around motion and the art of movement, often by the camera. These types of shots are often impressive and will add value to any production, but they also take time to set up. Before you dive head on into the world’s greatest dolly move or an five-minute long Steadicam shot, consider the resources you’re expending to execute it.

Read More
Getting Drinks with Crew: Hit the Bar or Hit the Sack?

Getting Drinks with Crew: Hit the Bar or Hit the Sack?

by Evan LuziMiscellaneous Tips

  • 13

When you spend 12 hours (or more) working, a soft pillow and a warm bed are your best friends at the end of the day. That’s until you hear, “Hey, we’re going out for drinks, you should come!”

Read More
7 Tips for Navigating Craft Services Successfully

7 Tips for Navigating Craft Services Successfully

by Evan LuziMiscellaneous Tips

  • 21

In film school, no one ever gives lessons about crafty. It’s something you discover stepping onto set for the first time. But tread lightly, if you aren’t sure what you’re doing, craft services can have you radio in “10-2” faster than you can finish the Thai leftovers from lunch.

Read More
  • Prev
  • 5
  • 6
  • 7
  • Next
Becoming the Reel Deal eBook Cover on iPad

It Only Takes One Gig.

Becoming the Reel Deal is a free downloadable eBook written to help you get your first job on set in the camera department so you can launch your film career.

Sign up now to get your free copy and exclusive tips from The Black and Blue.

Get Your Free Copy
  • Disclosure
  • Privacy Policy
  • Credits
  • Contact

Copyright © 2025 The Black and Blue, LLC