Here’s something you might not have given much thought: the familiar names at the top of the credits are only a small part of a screen workforce.

Writers, producers, directors and principal cast are often called above-the-line roles. But did you know that around 85–90% of the jobs on a typical screen production are crew, or below-the-line roles?

These can include camera and lighting, sound and costume, sets and props, hair and make-up, locations and transport, production coordination, visual effects, editing, and a wide array of other roles.

Not everyone that works on a production is there at once. A production changes as it moves from an idea through planning and preparation, filming, post-production and finally out to its audience. Different people and skills are needed along the way, and every production brings together a slightly different crew.

A documentary made on location won't look like an animated series, a television drama or an international feature filming at Perth Film Studios. But they all need people with a much wide range of skills than you might imagine.