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On-Set Survival Guide: Professional Etiquette & Insider Tips

By The Up-To-Date Actor, October 31, 2025

Stepping onto a film, TV, or commercial set for the first—or fiftieth—time can feel like entering a different world. The pace is fast, the stakes are high, and every person has a role to play in bringing the project to life. Whether you’re background, a day player, or in a recurring role, your professionalism and conduct on set are just as important as your talent.

This guide will walk you through the essentials of on-set etiquette — the unspoken rules that can make or break your reputation — and provide insider tips to help you thrive in any production environment.

1. Arrive Prepared & On Time

The golden rule of the industry: early is on time, on time is late. Call times are not suggestions — they are precise instructions that keep production on schedule.

• Know your call sheet: Read it thoroughly the night before. It tells you everything — your call time, location, wardrobe notes, parking, and more.
• Bring essentials: Headshot/resume, proper wardrobe if asked, sides, water, and snacks.
• Factor in delays: Transit hiccups, security check-ins, and sign-in lines all take time. Arrive early to give yourself breathing room.

Insider Tip: Keep a small on-set kit in your bag with things like mints, a phone charger, and wardrobe basics (nude undergarments, socks, hair ties).

2. Respect Every Department

From grips to PAs to wardrobe, a set is a finely tuned machine. Treat every crew member with respect; their job directly impacts yours.

• Never touch props, costumes, or equipment without permission.
• If you’re unsure where to stand or when to move, ask a PA — they’re your guide.
• A thank-you goes a long way. Gratitude is noticed.

Insider Tip: Crew often remembers the actors who make their day easier. Being polite to everyone — from the director to craft services — can earn you repeat calls.

3. Craft Services Etiquette

Craft services (“crafty”) is the snack and beverage station available for cast and crew during the day. While it’s there for everyone, there are clear expectations on how to use it respectfully.

• Wait until you’re on break: Don’t visit crafty in the middle of a setup or while you’re needed on set.
• Take modest portions: Avoid overloading your plate or filling multiple containers to take home. Snacks are for everyone throughout the day.
• Clean up after yourself: Dispose of trash, cups, and wrappers properly. Leaving a mess creates extra work for the crew.
• Ask before touching specialty items: Some food may be reserved for department setups or meal service.
• Be mindful of timing: When the crew is on a short break, let them grab first — they have less flexibility in their schedule.

Insider Tip: Introduce yourself to the craft services team and say thank you. A small show of appreciation goes a long way — they keep the entire set running smoothly (and caffeinated!).

4. Know When (and When Not) to Talk

One of the biggest etiquette mistakes actors make is chatting at the wrong time.

• Keep conversations light and quiet on set, especially near cameras or while sound is rolling. Background actors do not speak actual words when filming because it can interfere with the main actors’ audio. They are typically instructed to mime conversations and move their lips without making a sound. The sounds of ambient chatter are added later in post-production.
• Never interrupt the director, ADs, or department heads when they’re giving instructions.
• If you have a question, ask your PA, 2nd AD, or stand-in contact before going up the chain.

Insider Tip: Save your networking for wrap parties or breaks. On set, your focus should be on your role and the work.

5. Follow “Hurry Up and Wait”

The saying is true: much of an actor’s time on set is waiting. This can be frustrating, but it’s part of the process.

• Bring a book, journal, or quiet activity for holding.
• Stay alert — be ready to move the moment your group is called.
• Don’t disappear. Always check in before leaving holding for any reason.

Insider Tip: Use this downtime productively — run lines, observe the set dynamics, or quietly connect with other actors in a professional way.

6. Respect the Camera & Crew Workflow

Your awareness of set logistics can set you apart as a pro.

• Never cross the camera line (the “eye line”) without asking.
• Don’t block lights or stand in front of monitors.
• Hit your marks and repeat movements consistently for continuity.

Insider Tip: Learn to find your light quickly and subtly. Casting directors and crew notice when an actor is camera-savvy.

7. Mind Wardrobe, Hair, and Makeup

These departments are your allies in looking your best on screen.

• Arrive “camera-ready” if instructed.
• Respect fittings and notes — wardrobe continuity is crucial.
• Don’t make changes without approval (rolling up sleeves, removing jewelry, etc.).

Insider Tip: If you’re background or a day player, neutral clothing layers (navy, gray, earth tones) are versatile staples to bring just in case.

8. Protect Your Reputation

Word travels fast in this industry. How you conduct yourself today can determine if you’re hired tomorrow.

• Don’t take unauthorized photos or post about the project online. Wait until publicity allows.
• Avoid gossiping or complaining — it gets noticed.
• Follow NDA rules to the letter.

Insider Tip: A reputation for being professional, low-maintenance, and easy to work with will carry you farther than almost anything else.

9. Build Quiet Connections

While set time isn’t for aggressive networking, it’s a great place to build authentic relationships.

• Thank the ADs, PAs, and department heads at the end of the day.
• Connect naturally with fellow actors.
• Keep in touch afterward with a quick thank-you note or email (when appropriate).

Insider Tip: Use your Up-To-Date Actor database to track projects and follow up with casting directors and crew members you meet.

Final Takeaway

The set is a workplace built on teamwork, trust, and timing. Your job is to show up prepared, respect the process, and deliver your best work without disrupting the flow. When you embody professionalism on set, you’re not only helping the production — you’re building a reputation that will open doors for years to come.

Pro Move for Actors: On Up-To-Date Actor, you can log every on-set experience, track who you worked with, and organize follow-ups with industry contacts. This keeps your career momentum strong and helps you grow your professional network with intention.