Dailies

Term from Film Production industry explained for recruiters

Dailies are the raw, unedited footage that is filmed each day during movie or TV show production, which is then reviewed by directors, producers, and other team members. Think of it like getting daily progress reports, but in video form. This review process helps catch any filming problems early, saving time and money by avoiding reshoots later. Sometimes called "rushes" or "daily rushes," this term appears frequently in film production job descriptions because managing, organizing, and reviewing dailies is a crucial part of the filmmaking process.

Examples in Resumes

Managed dailies workflow for major television series, ensuring timely delivery to creative team

Coordinated rushes review sessions for award-winning feature film

Organized and processed daily rushes for multiple production units

Set up efficient dailies delivery system for remote production team

Typical job title: "Dailies Operators"

Also try searching for:

Dailies Technician Dailies Coordinator Digital Imaging Technician DIT Dailies Manager Footage Manager Digital Lab Operator

Example Interview Questions

Senior Level Questions

Q: How would you handle dailies for a production shooting in multiple locations with different time zones?

Expected Answer: A senior candidate should explain their experience coordinating complex workflows, including data management, secure file transfer methods, and communication systems to ensure all teams get their footage on time.

Q: Tell me about a time when you had to solve a major technical problem with dailies delivery.

Expected Answer: Look for answers showing leadership in crisis management, technical problem-solving, and ability to maintain workflow while fixing issues.

Mid Level Questions

Q: What is your process for organizing and backing up dailies?

Expected Answer: Should describe systematic approach to file organization, backup procedures, and quality control measures they use to protect footage.

Q: How do you prioritize dailies processing when multiple departments need them urgently?

Expected Answer: Should demonstrate understanding of production priorities, communication skills, and ability to manage expectations while meeting deadlines.

Junior Level Questions

Q: What software tools have you used for dailies processing?

Expected Answer: Should be familiar with common dailies processing software and basic file management concepts.

Q: How do you ensure the security of dailies content?

Expected Answer: Should understand basic content security practices and the importance of confidentiality in handling production footage.

Experience Level Indicators

Junior (0-2 years)

  • Basic dailies processing
  • File organization and naming conventions
  • Simple quality control checks
  • Basic computer and software skills

Mid (2-5 years)

  • Managing multiple dailies workflows
  • Technical troubleshooting
  • Color management basics
  • Communication with multiple departments

Senior (5+ years)

  • Complex workflow design
  • Team management
  • Advanced technical problem-solving
  • Production pipeline optimization

Red Flags to Watch For

  • No understanding of basic file management
  • Poor attention to detail
  • Lack of experience with content security
  • Unable to work under tight deadlines
  • No knowledge of standard filming processes