Your First Trainee Job on a Film or TV set: What to Expect
Landing your first trainee role on a Film or TV set is a huge milestone. After all the training, preparation, and hard work, you’re finally getting the chance to put your skills into action. It’s exciting – but it can also feel a little overwhelming.
To help you navigate those first few days and make a great impression, we’ve put together this practical guide packed with advice from industry experts. Here’s everything you need to know to be a standout trainee on set.
The Day Before: Set Yourself Up for Success
Plan Your Journey
Make sure you’ve mapped out your route to set in advance. Use apps like Google Maps to estimate journey times and factor in delays. If you’re using public transport, take note of stops and any transfers.
Double Check Your Call Time
Crew call and make-up call times often differ – make sure you know exactly when you’re expected. Being late is not an option. Punctuality shows professionalism and could influence whether you’re asked back for future projects.
“There’s a lot of competition in this industry. You might be brilliant at hair and make-up, but if your attitude isn’t right, that’s what people remember.”
-Liz Tagg, Principal of The Iver Makeup Academy
Do Your Homework
Look up the key members of the hair and make-up team- check their IMDB pages to get familiar with their work. It helps to understand who you’ll be learning from.
Research the Genre and Period
You might not know every detail about the production in advanced, but you can usually find out the genre and setting. Use that information to research period-appropriate looks or genre-specific make-up styles.
Pack a Smart Kit
Being prepared makes a big difference — and that’s exactly where the IMA Industry Ready module comes in. It teaches you how to assess each job, understand what’s expected, and pack your kit accordingly. Whether it’s a a film set or any professional environment, you’ll know how to show up with exactly what you need — no more, no less. This not only saves time and stress but also shows professionalism that your team will notice.
Prepare Personal Essentials
You won’t always be working in climate-controlled studios. As Vice Principal Tamsin says
“You could be filming in the rain, snow, or blazing sun – on land, sea, or even in the air! Bring clothing for all weather conditions and, if the shoot is abroad, don’t forget your passport!”
-Tamsin Barbosa, Vice Principal of The Iver Makeup Academy
Charge Your Devices
Keep your phone and laptop fully charged – you may need to access reference images or emails during the day.
In the Make-Up Room
Put Your Phone on Silent
Sounds carry on set. Even vibrations can interfere with audio recording. Keep your phone silent – or better yet, keep it tucked away.
Set Up the Workstations
As the trainee, restocking consumables is often your responsibility — and it’s a small task that speaks volumes about your professionalism. This is also something we cover in our courses at IMA, helping you build habits that make you a reliable and prepared member of the team.
Learn the Layout
Familiarise yourself with where things are stored – towels, cleaning supplies, and kitchen facilities. Being efficient makes you a valuable team member.
Know What’s Expected
Trainees often jump straight into a fast-paced environment with little direction. Be proactive – help keep the area clean, support artists during de-rigging, and assist wherever needed.
On Set
Be Aware of Your Environment
Sets are busy, sometimes cramped, and full of expensive equipment. Always watch your step and be mindful of your surroundings.
Be on Standby
You may be asked to touch up make-up or fetch something in a hurry. Position yourself somewhere discreet but accessible so you’re ready when needed
Keep Quiet During Takes
When cameras are rolling, stay silent and still. Don’t move until the Director calls “cut” and confirms the scene is complete.
Take Continuity Photos
After scene wrap, make sure you ask permission to take continuity photos. Also let the subject know you are taking photos so they are prepared. These will help the team to recreate specifics in the future.
Wrapping Up
Prepare for De-rigging
Get hot towels, wipes, and cleansers ready to help actor remove their make-up. It’s a thoughtful touch and shows initiative.
“At the end of each day, I make sure everything’s restocked – especially tissue and wipes. They disappear fast!”
-Jenny, IMA Graduate
Tidy Workstations
Turn off tools, clean brushes, and prepare wig for the next day if needed. Leave the workspace spotless.
Check the Next Day’s Call Sheet
Review the call sheet before you leave. It tells you everything you need to know for tomorrow – from arrival times to which scenes will be filmed.
Learning the unspoken rules of set life is just as important as mastering your craft. These simple but crucial tips will help you feel confident and capable form day one.
At The Iver Makeup Academy, our full time courses are designed to simulate what life would be like on set.
For more in depth knowledge on how to be the best trainee on set, we recommend reading ‘Training to Trainee’ by Amy Eliza Read.
Ready to take your first step into the industry?
It can be daunting figuring out a path into your future career, that’s why we are here to help. Get in touch to learn more about launching your career in the Film and TV industry!
Our next Open Evening will be held Wednesday 25th June 16:00pm-18:00pm. Book your FREE tickets here.
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