Department Function
This is the processing of Original Camera Master “Dailies” files from set to add a look or LUT information to selected takes, sync sound files, and then process proxies for editorial and production review.
Working in this Department
The Dailies Department starts to work following production camera recording of photography, and most frequently happens overnight. Depending on the scale of the production, this work may be done with individual operators working independently or in teams to process the day’s footage. Operators first transfer and backup media from camera cards or hard drives provided from set, select takes to be transferred from camera/sound/script reports, apply or create color correction grades in collaboration with the Director of Photography or Digital Imaging Technician’s instructions, sync sound files to selected takes, and create AVID bins for the editorial team. The final steps will see the operator process transcoded files for Producers, Production Department Heads and Studio to review on an online platform like RushCut, PIX or Dax. Workflow and I/O operators generally pickup from where the Dailies Operators finish, to provide additional support during the day to production for additional scenes, VFX pulls, or to diagnose critical issues.
Knowledge
Each position requires the use of technical skills and strong communication. The main technical skills are: strong knowledge of Windows and Mac, understanding of camera and production terminology and file formats, knowledge of Avid editing software and or other Color Correction or Editing platforms (ie Davinci Resolve, Colorfront EXD etc), and how to send, receive and share files (i.e. Media Shuttle, Aspera, Frame io, etc ). A strong attention to detail visually, audibly, and with reporting is essential. Dailies Producers must also have excellent people and communication skills to effectively organize, manage and maintain the Dailies workflow between production, studio, editorial and the facility.
Job Roles
These positions can be either short term contracts or full time employment at a facility:
Dailies Assistant (Entry Level)
Dailies Colorist
Dailies Workflow / IO Technician
Dailies Producer
Experience
The Dailies Assistant is an entry level position that is suited to film school grads or others wanting to enter post production.
Dailies operators will require experience as an Dailies Assistant, Edit Assistant or DIT/DMT on set to effectively manage the tasks required.
Dailies Colorists are advanced operators with additional color correction skills gained either through Dailies/DIT or Finishing color work (usually with 2-5 years prior experience).
Dailies Workflow and I/O technicians will have prior experience (1 year+) as a Dailies operator or Assistant Editor to manage their position.
The Dailies Producers will have prior experience as a Dailies Operator, Post Coordinator or other related position to help guide them through the technical workflow, scheduling and crisis management skills required.
Union or Non Union
These positions are all NON-UNION.
