The Unseen Side: Navigating the Cons of Being an On-Set Stills Photographer
Hello, creative souls and lens lovers! Today, we're peeling back the curtain on a less talked about aspect of our craft — the cons of being an on-set stills photographer. While capturing the magic of film and TV sets can be an exhilarating experience, it's not without its set of challenges. From the physical toll to the emotional strain of being away from home, and navigating the intricate dynamics of set life, there's a whole other scene behind the glamorous shots we capture. So, let's dive in, shall we? Because understanding the full picture is essential, even if it means acknowledging the shadows.
The Physical Marathon: More Than Just Clicking Away
First off, let's talk about the physical demands. Carrying heavy gear across sets, contorting into the most awkward positions to get the perfect shot, and standing on your feet for what feels like an eternity. It's a marathon, and not just any kind, but one that requires a blend of stamina, strength, and sheer willpower. The reality? It can take a toll on your body, leaving you with aches and pains that are a testament to your dedication (or stubbornness, depending on how you look at it).
Home Away From Home... A Lot
Then there's the aspect of being away from home. On-set photography often means long days and sometimes even longer nights, far from the comfort of your own bed. It's not just missing your pillow; it's missing birthdays, anniversaries, and those quiet moments that keep us grounded. The trade-off? Capturing unforgettable moments on set. But at what cost? It's a question many of us grapple with as we navigate the balance between our passion and personal life.
Set Life: Not Always Picture Perfect
Ah, the dynamics of a film or TV set. It's a melting pot of creativity, egos, and pressure. Tension? It can run high, and as a stills photographer, you're right in the thick of it. Whether it's finding your space in the hierarchy or ensuring your work doesn't interrupt the flow, it's a delicate dance. And sometimes, it feels like you're dancing in combat boots. Negotiating your corner, and advocating for that perfect shot, it requires a blend of diplomacy and determination. And yes, sometimes, it feels like you're doing it all alone.
I’ve spent an entire day in my car because a cast member decided they didn’t want me on set.
Countless arguments with first ADs who feel they can dictate my job and it’s worth.
I’ve had to go to my car to cry because of being screamed at for something I got permission for.
Had a director tell the cast they would fire me if the cast wanted… behind my back… the cast then had to defend me.
Been asked ‘what is a little girl like you doing on a film set?’ by a director. It’s 2024 people and I’m in my mid thirties, jeez.
Been fired from a job because the cast member was told off for behaving badly…
Had to have countless calls, emails and shitty conversations with the accounts team about being paid and why I should be paid within a reasonable time period.
Been stalked and harassed by another crew member…
The Waiting Game: Patience Is Not Just a Virtue; It's a Requirement
Perhaps one of the most poignant challenges is the waiting game. Capturing moments that may not see the light of day for years, if at all. The essence of our work is to share stories, evoke emotions, and yet, so much of what we capture is shrouded in secrecy until the right moment arrives. It's a peculiar feeling, pouring your heart and soul into shots that are tucked away into the vaults of production companies, waiting for a premiere that feels like a distant dream.
My first job I couldn’t share images for three years… in that time I just had to prove my worth over and over again until I could start sharing the work I’d done.
Final Frame: The Bittersweet Symphony
Being an on-set stills photographer is a bittersweet symphony. It's about embracing the chaos, finding beauty in the madness, and holding onto the moments that make it all worth it. Yes, the cons are real, and they can weigh heavy on our shoulders. But let's not forget why we picked up the camera in the first place — to capture the magic, to tell stories, to freeze moments in time that can evoke a thousand emotions.
So, here's to us, the dreamers, the creators, the weary travellers on this journey of storytelling. May we find comfort in knowing that the challenges we face are but a part of the process, a testament to our dedication to our craft. And remember, in the world of film and TV, even the shadows play a crucial role in creating the perfect shot. Keep shooting, keep dreaming, and let's continue to navigate the unseen side of our profession, together.
