Production Notes: Second Unit | Nevada Film Office

Blog

Production Notes: Second Unit

Production Notes: Second Unit

What Does Second Unit Mean?

Second (2nd) unit refers to a smaller film crew separate from the first unit (main film crew) responsible for shooting supplementary scenes, typically those that do not require the director or anyone from the principal cast.

While the first unit is capturing primary shots, the second unit can be filming in a separate location, working on things such as establishing shots, inserts, cutaways, pickups, close up shots, and stunts. In action movies, it is not uncommon for stunt coordinators to take on the additional responsibility of second unit directing.

Often times, the second unit has their own director of photography (DP), so it is important for the second unit’s director to be on the same page as the first unit’s director in order to match the tone and style of the first unit’s footage. There may also be times where the first unit’s director is unavailable for a period of time due to unexpected circumstances, and the second unit’s director can step in temporarily to help the production stay on schedule.

Productions can always add more units as needed, which are numbered as they are added. The Lord of the Rings film series was shot at more than 150 locations with seven units (source).

If you are looking for DPs for your next project, check out our online Nevada Production Directory to find experienced Nevada production crew and support services or drop by our office and pick up a free printed directory!

If you offer production and film-related services in Nevada and are not yet listed in our Production Directory, you can learn more about how to sign up for the NPD here.



Disclaimer: The information contained in this article is deemed to be accurate and true to the best of our knowledge. All data and information provided on this site is for informational/entertainment purposes only. If there are any inaccuracies, you may submit corrections and sources by visiting our Contact page. Nevada Film Office makes no representations as to accuracy, completeness, currentness, suitability, or validity of any information on this site & will not be liable for any errors, omissions, or delays in this information or any losses, injuries, or damages arising from its display or use. All information is provided on an as-is basis. We do not sponsor or endorse anyone in our posts nor do we receive compensation of any kind in exchange for providing information about specific websites or resources unless otherwise noted, so please check for references, business licenses or credentials as you feel necessary.

This entry was posted in Nevada Production Crew. Bookmark the permalink.

Comments are closed.

  • Submit Location Photos

    Whether you have a ranch, a bar, a casino or even your own private residence, send us your photos and your location might end up in Hollywood’s next big blockbuster!

    Sign Up For The Directory

    Get your business or service in front of the many industry professionals that use our directory to find and recruit local crew and services for their projects.