Mastering Craft Services: A Comprehensive Guide For Video Production Sets

Craft services, often referred to as 'crafty,' are integral to the success of any film or commercial production. They provide snacks and beverages to the cast and crew. This ensures everyone remains energized and focused throughout long shooting days.

This guide will delve into the essentials of running an effective craft services operation, offering tips and advice to keep your set running smoothly.

Understanding Craft Services

Craft services provide snacks and drinks to everyone on set. Unlike catering, which provides full meals, craft services focus on quick, accessible snacks that can be consumed between takes. This service is vital for maintaining morale and productivity during long filming days.

Origins and Importance

Today, it is a union position represented by the International Alliance of Theatrical Stage Employees (IATSE). Craft services are essential for feeding a hungry cast and crew, ensuring that production runs smoothly and efficiently.

Key Tips for Craft Services

1. Provide Popular Snacks

Although this may sound obvious make sure you get snacks that are generally well liked. Pretzels, chips, fruit cups, and nuts are good examples of this. It is also a good practice to get non-perishable foods. This way any leftovers are not thrown away, but instead reused at a future date.

2. Provide Healthy Options and Alternatives

Offering a variety of healthy snacks is essential. Include fruits, vegetables, yogurt parfaits, granola bars, and sandwiches to cater to different dietary needs. Providing tea, coffee, and plenty of water is also important to keep everyone hydrated and caffeinated.

3. Buy Food in Bulk

Purchasing supplies in bulk from wholesale markets like Costco or Sam's Club can save money and ensure you have enough food for the entire crew. This approach is cost-effective and ensures that you never run out of essential snacks.

4. Account for Dietary Needs

Be mindful of allergies and dietary restrictions. Common restrictions include gluten-free, vegan, and vegetarian diets, as well as allergies to peanuts, eggs, and shellfish. Clearly label all food items to prevent any allergic reactions and ensure everyone can find suitable options.

5. Keep the Craft Services Table Accessible

Position the craft services table close to the set to allow easy access for the cast and crew. This proximity saves time and keeps everyone on schedule, as they can quickly grab a snack without straying far from their work.

6. Be Creative but Practical

While it's great to add a creative touch to your craft services, avoid overly messy or complicated setups. Consider options like taco bars, coffee machines, or yogurt bars, but ensure they are easy to manage and don't encroach on catering territory.

7. Always Back Stock

Maintain a reserve of snacks and supplies to give the illusion of an endless supply. Cut larger items into smaller portions to encourage moderation and reduce waste. This strategy helps manage resources effectively and keeps the table stocked throughout the day.

8. Don't Forget Non-Food Items

Equip your craft services table with essential non-food items like sharpies, pens, paper, and trash bags. These supplies support the crew's work and help maintain a tidy and organized environment.

Craft Services vs. Catering

While both craft services and catering provide food and drinks, they serve different purposes. Craft services focus on snacks and quick bites, while catering offers full meals. Understanding this distinction helps in planning and executing an effective food service strategy on set.

Conclusion

Craft services are a vital component of any film production, ensuring that the cast and crew remain nourished and energized. By following these tips and maintaining a well-stocked and accessible craft services table, you can enhance the productivity and morale of your team. For those looking to elevate their production support, BW Productions offers expert craft services tailored to your needs. Visit our Work With Us page to learn more about how we can support your next project with precision and creativity.