Working in film is more than lights, camera, action. It’s about collaboration, precision, and adaptability. Whether you’re dreaming of composing shots, scouting the perfect location, or designing VFX worlds, every role on a film set shares a common foundation: the essential skills that help productions run smoothly and people succeed. Even jobs that are film-adjacent (such as accounting, marketing and publicity, or legal support) require many of the same qualities. So, what exactly do you need to succeed?
A role for every skillset
There are countless jobs in the motion picture industry, from the creative decision-makers (above-the-line), the on-set crew who bring the production to life (below-the-line), to the digital experts handling creative tech, and the many adjacent roles that support this bustling industry. Learn more about these categories here.
Each role has its unique requirements, some more obvious than others. Of course, you need technical training to set up a light, operate sound recording equipment, or colour correct a shot. But soft skills are just as crucial. For example, a Script Supervisor needs sharp attention to detail and excellent note-taking abilities. A Location Manager requires exceptional organizational skills. And a Production Assistant, often the starting point for many film entrants, must be flexible, quick-thinking, and able to juggle multiple tasks. Despite these differences, all roles share a core set of transferable skills that can truly make the difference between just getting by and thriving on set.
The universal skills: what every role requires
No matter your pathway into the industry, whether through film school, on-the-job experience, or training programs like Setwork, you’ll need a mix of core competencies that apply across the board.
And let’s not forget: learn the language. The film industry has its own dictionary of terms, and understanding the lingo can help you feel more confident and credible from day one. Discover the Dictionary of Terms.
The top five skills for new entrants
Based on industry research conducted in B.C., these are the most important skills for those starting out in the motion picture industry:
- Acting with honour & character. Showing up on time, being respectful, doing your job, and owning your mistakes earns trust. Reliability and a strong work ethic build trust on set.
- Communicating effectively. Know how to take direction, speak clearly, and ask questions when you’re unsure. Good communication keeps the team aligned.
- Keeping on point. Stay focused on your task, follow directions carefully, and avoid distractions.
- Getting organized. Sets move fast. Staying on top of your responsibilities (and shifting gears quickly) is key. Be prepared, manage your time, and keep track of details.
- Managing diverse relationships. Film is collaborative by nature. Your ability to listen, adapt, and work well with others is crucial. Respect, patience, and empathy go a long way in building strong working relationships.
These insights come from a 2019 Labour Market Study of B.C.’s below-the-line motion picture workforce, where hiring managers and crew members were asked what it really takes to succeed in the industry.
More transferrable skills to advance in the industry:
- Punctuality. Showing up on time and sticking with the schedule is one of the simplest and most important ways to earn trust and keep productions on track.
- Flexibility. Schedules shift. Locations change. You will need to act accordingly and with professionalism.
- Situational awareness. Know what’s happening around you at all times. Sets are fast-paced and crew is always on the go. Avoid blocking equipment, stepping into shots, or creating hazards to keep everyone safe and the production flowing smoothly.
- Managing stress and fatigue. Learn how to take care of yourself and work steadily through challenges. Knowing yourself and your needs is integral.
- Initiative. Be proactive. If you see something that needs doing and it’s safe and appropriate to help, do it. But avoid stepping into someone else’s role.
Passion meets purpose
Getting into film takes grit, training, and the right connections, but staying in it takes something more: personal growth, adaptability, and a real commitment to working together. The film industry is a world where camaraderie and creativity thrive under pressure, and there’s nothing quite like the magic that happens when a crew comes together to bring a story to life. If you’re fuelled by curiosity, collaboration, and the excitement of building something from the ground up, film offers the kind of fulfillment that’s hard to find anywhere else.