Coverage

Term from Film Production industry explained for recruiters

Coverage refers to the process of filming a scene from multiple angles and perspectives to ensure there's enough footage for editing. It's like taking extra photos at an event to make sure you don't miss anything important. In film production, getting good coverage means recording the same scene from different distances (wide shots, medium shots, close-ups) and angles to give editors options when putting the final video together. This term is essential in both film and television production, as proper coverage helps tell the story effectively and allows for smooth editing.

Examples in Resumes

Directed second unit Coverage for major television series

Managed Coverage planning for commercial shoots to ensure efficient filming schedules

Supervised Coverage and B-roll capture for documentary projects

Typical job title: "Camera Operators"

Also try searching for:

Director of Photography Cinematographer Camera Operator Second Unit Director Assistant Director Film Director Production Coordinator

Where to Find Camera Operators

Example Interview Questions

Senior Level Questions

Q: How do you plan coverage for a complex action sequence with multiple actors?

Expected Answer: A senior professional should discuss pre-visualization, shot lists, coordinating with stunt teams, and ensuring safety while getting all necessary angles. They should mention backup plans and time management.

Q: How do you handle coverage when working with a limited budget and tight schedule?

Expected Answer: Should explain prioritizing essential shots, efficient planning, making quick decisions, and knowing which angles are most important for telling the story effectively.

Mid Level Questions

Q: What's your approach to getting coverage for dialogue scenes?

Expected Answer: Should discuss standard coverage patterns like master shots, over-the-shoulder shots, and close-ups, while explaining how to maintain continuity between shots.

Q: How do you ensure you've got enough coverage before moving to the next scene?

Expected Answer: Should explain checking shot lists, reviewing footage on set, coordinating with the director, and confirming all necessary angles are captured.

Junior Level Questions

Q: What are the basic types of shots needed for standard scene coverage?

Expected Answer: Should be able to list and explain wide shots, medium shots, close-ups, and understand their basic purposes in storytelling.

Q: How do you maintain continuity when shooting coverage?

Expected Answer: Should demonstrate understanding of matching action, maintaining eye lines, and basic techniques for ensuring shots will edit together smoothly.

Experience Level Indicators

Junior (0-2 years)

  • Understanding basic shot types
  • Operating camera equipment
  • Following shot lists
  • Basic lighting knowledge

Mid (2-5 years)

  • Planning coverage independently
  • Managing time efficiently
  • Coordinating with other departments
  • Problem-solving on set

Senior (5+ years)

  • Complex scene planning
  • Team leadership
  • Budget management
  • Creative decision-making

Red Flags to Watch For

  • No understanding of basic shot composition
  • Lack of knowledge about standard coverage patterns
  • No experience with different camera types
  • Poor communication skills
  • No understanding of continuity