"Can you step over here, please?": Security and Clearance on set and in the field.
- lewislgordon78
- May 30
- 3 min read
Ten days before flying out of state to film an interview with a political candidate, Director of Photography Dan Parsons and the rest of the film crew were asked to fill out a background check to ensure the safety of the candidate. Passing the test, they flew out and were stopped at the door of the buiding: another security check. Once inside, they set up the lights and chairs, positioned the mics and camera and waitied for the candidate to arrive. When the door opened, however, it was a small team with a dog that entered. They moved through the room and, getting no reaction from the dog, cleared it for the interview to go forward. While this isn't the strictest security film crews have had to deal with (imagine if it was the President or a foreign leader), it's important to remember that many businesses and organizations take safety, security and confidentiality seriously.
In the early years of I'AMedia, we had what was essentially a trophy wall, consisting of framed news articles, photos from shows or sets - and lots of lanyards.
Having filmed a range of events and locations, including The Arnold Fitness Challenge, Race for the Cure, AEP Refineries and Government coverage, it isn't uncommon to have to provide your credentials when entering the building. Sometimes it's merely handing over your license to be photocopied. Other times you may have to watch videos, fill out questionaires and allow secuirty to handle your camera gear. You might get a Visitor sticker that must remain visible, or you may get a lanyard with your picture or a scannable code. It's important to inquire early on the requirements for background checks and security clearances when working with large clients. They may also ask about insurance, which you should have if operating in a professional capcity.
One form of security you may to agree upon early is the Non-Disclosure Agreement, or NDA. This document basically says you agree to not disclose, reveal share or discuss the people and/or things you're going to see and film. We've encountered these when working with brands and athletes. Background Checks are also a popular method of vetting that you'll encounter when doing government work. It's best to be honest, as some criminal records are public record. A Grip we've worked with for several years has a misdemeanor* that comes up in conversations with potential clients - they do look you up! You may encounter Gear Security in secure sites like airports or government offices. We've had our Drone crednetials checked numerous times, and even microphones may be required to be on a certain frequency.
Once on set, you might encounter a securtity guard or two who aren't aware of what's going on. Be sure to have your contact names memorized and their info available to contact if needed. If you're told something different by security as to filming locations, interviewees or film times, don't argue- they may know something you don't, or again, maybe aren't in the loop. Have your contact clarify any confusion. Remember: Like you, everyone is trying to do their job. Security's job is to keep things safe, so don't give them reason to dislike you. Once filming is done, be sure to adhere to any post-production security in the NDA or verbally agreed to. All-in-all, it's only a job, so don't take it personally if you're asked to jump through a few hoops to get the gig.
I"AMedia has filmed goverrment training videos, political campaign spots, celebrity endorsments, and even recently a NATO Parlimentary Assembly in Dayton, Ohio. We take our safety and yours very serious. Contact us today for your film and video needs at www.iamfilmco.com.
*The charge came about when his dog escaped his yard and was picked up by animal control. It didn't have a license and he was charged with failure to license. He paid a fine and attended a two-day class on dog safety, but that charge still follows him around.
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