Behind Every Frame: The Role of PA’s and Production Teams at Fragrant Film

When people watch our work, they usually see the polished result — the smooth camera moves, the emotional performances, the perfect lighting. What they don’t see? The incredible team behind the scenes making it all happen — especially our PA’s and production crew.

At Fragrant Film, we believe every role on set matters. Whether you’re calling out “roll sound,” locking up traffic for a take, or grabbing extra batteries between setups, you’re a key part of the story. No frame gets captured without the people who keep everything moving.

WHY PA’S ARE THE BACKBONE OF SET LIFE

Let’s be real: PA (Production Assistant) might sound like an entry-level title, but on our sets, it’s anything but small.

PA’s are often the first to arrive and the last to leave. They’re the ones…

  • Organizing gear, call sheets, and crafty

  • Running last-minute errands and solving real-time problems

  • Relaying messages between departments

  • Anticipating needs before they’re spoken

  • Keeping energy high and morale even higher

They’re not just “helping out.” They’re holding the whole thing together.

WHAT MAKES A STRONG PRODUCTION TEAM?

Production is the spine of any shoot. When it’s solid, everything flows. When it’s shaky, even the best camera crew can’t save the day. At Fragrant, our production teams are built on:

  • Clear communication

  • Mutual respect between departments

  • Flexibility under pressure

  • A sense of humor and grit (because set life is wild sometimes)

  • A deep understanding that story comes first, ego doesn’t

We’re not here to posture. We’re here to serve the vision — and our teams show up ready to do just that.

CELEBRATING THE CREW (NOT JUST THE CREDITS)

A lot of people chase the spotlight. But our favorite stories come from the shadows — from the folks hauling sandbags at sunrise or quietly resetting props between takes.

We believe in giving credit where it’s due, and that means honoring the people who rarely get seen on screen but are essential to what happens in front of it.

When a PA becomes a coordinator, or when a production manager steps up into producing — we celebrate that. Because when people are given space to grow, the entire industry gets better.

FINAL THOUGHTS

At Fragrant Film, we believe every project is a team effort. And every team is only as strong as the people willing to serve — faithfully, joyfully, and with excellence.

If you’re a PA reading this, know this: your work matters more than you know. And if you’re a producer building your dream team, don’t overlook the people doing the quiet work. They’re the heartbeat of it all.

Let’s keep making beautiful things — together.

Aiden Franklin

Commercial film director and photographer home based out of Fort Worth, Texas.

https://fragrant.film
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More Than a Wrap Photo: Why We Celebrate Well