Think the magic behind your favourite TV show is all down to the directors and
producers? Think again! From finding the perfect filming locations to making sure
animals hit their cues, Studio Insider explores five lesser known (and somewhat
curious) roles in the TV production industry.

Animal Wranglers

Ever wondered how Cheddar, the loveable dog from Brooklyn 99, always seems to
be in the right place at the right time? Or how the horses in Game of Thrones charge
through battle without missing a beat?

That’s all down to animal wranglers, who are responsible for the wellbeing of any animals on television production sets. From creating exercises to keep animals healthy off set to transporting them to location, wranglers play a key role in making sure animals perform how the director requires them to. How do you get into such a specific role though?

Well, you’ll need strong animal handling skills, an understanding of animal behaviour and the ability to stay calm under pressure. To name just a few. Lots of wranglers have degrees in animal-related fields or gain practical experience with experienced trainers. They ensure that animals not only perform on cue but also that it is safe and ethical. This makes them crucial to any TV production that has animals involved.

‘The Best Boy?’

Next up is the role of the ‘best boy’.

It refers to the head assistant to the gaffer (electric department) or key grip (grip department). Despite the quirky name, the best boy has a very important role on set. They manage their department’s crew and oversee all of the specialist equipment used in production. From ordering and returning grip equipment to booking crew, the best boy ensures no detail is overlooked. They are responsible for making sure that the equipment is working properly, and that the crew have what they need to carry out their work. At a moment’s notice, they can step in to cover the key grip’s role if needed. It’s a behind the screens position that’s absolutely vital to keeping things on track during high-stakes production.

Clapper Loader

Now, who’s behind the “clap” of the clapperboard when the cameras start rolling?
That’s the clapper loader!

Their role is an essential part of the camera crew. On set, they handle the clapperboard, making sure each take is correctly marked for editing. They’re also responsible for downloading the rushes (the footage shot that day), ensuring monitors are set up, batteries are charged, and everything is packed up and ready for transport. Clappers work closely with the first assistant camera and camera operators to make sure the shots are captured flawless, and many of them start as trainees and work their way up through the ranks. In high-end TV shows, like Stranger Things and The Crown, the clapper loader keeps everything in order behind the scenes, ensuring that when the director shouts, “Action!”, everything is perfectly synced and ready for editing.

Food Stylist? That’s a job?

From vibrant fruit bowls on Queer Eye, to the meticulously styled banquets on Bridgerton, food on the TV often looks almost too good to be true. Behind these visuals is the work of food stylists, who strive to make food look appealing and enticing to the TV audience.

Collaborating closely with production teams, food stylists ensure that every dish not only looks great but also aligns with the overall aesthetic and tone of the show. So, what’s the recipe to becoming a successful TV food stylist? It’s a blend of artistic flair, culinary skills and a keen understanding of how different foods look under different conditions, such as camera angles and lighting. The best way to break into this field? Offer to assist another food stylist for at least two to three years. This experience will allow you to master the art of food styling It refines your culinary techniques, and starts building the all-important portfolio that will set you apart in this highly visual industry.

Location Scouts

So, what’s the last of our five roles? Do you have an eye for hidden gems and a passion for travel? If so, this role might be right be up your alley.

Location scouts are responsible for finding spots where TV magic can happen. Picture the dramatic castle where The Traitors is filmed or the different iconic hotels in The White Lotus – all those locations were chosen by location scouts who know exactly what set a production needs to make it come to life. The job involves everything from considering legal restrictions to negotiating with property owners and local authorities for permission to film. In many cases, scouts also handle the logistics of transport, access, and the practicalities of shooting in unusual or remote locations.

It’s the kind of role that’s perfect for someone who loves to travel, thrives on solving problems and has a strong eye for detail. Whilst there aren’t any formal qualifications required to become a location scout, it’s useful to study something related to the production process, with many scouts previously working as entry-level crew members, such as production assistants, runners or location trainees.

So, next time you’re binge-watching your favourite TV show, look out for the details of the unsung heroes behind the screens. There’s a whole crew making the magic happens. And who knows? Maybe one day, you’ll be the one clapping the clapperboard or picking the perfect place for the next big hit.

For more stories looking at overlooked roles like this, click here.