From "Action" to "Cut" Boost Your On-Set Communication with Two-Way Radios
Working behind the scenes to make great film and TV isn't an easy feat. With many technical, creative and logistical challenges that must be overcome, a successful film set often requires intense collaboration, long hours and specialised expertise from a diverse crew. These operational elements run smoother with clear, timely and organised communication. Without it, even the most talented individuals and meticulously planned schedules can quickly fall apart, leading to costly delays and compromised creativity.
In this article we look at the challenges faced in this working environment and the many ways in which two-way radios can boost on-set efficiency to keep the camera rolling.
Backstage Communication Barriers
Like in other functional working environments, film and TV crews face a variety of situations where instant communication is needed, these include:
Quiet on Set – Absolute silence is required at regular intervals in the studio. Immediate, discreet communication enables the whole production crew to be alerted before filming starts.
Physical Safety Risks – When it comes to performing stunts or using pyrotechnics, clear and immediate communication is vital for safety and reduces the need for costly re-takes.
Physical Distance – Many film sets operate across large studios with various cast and crew members working out of sight or not within speaking distance. Staying in contact is needed for smooth operations, even when crew members are in a different part of the studio.
Hazard Management - Radios are extremely useful when coordinating a scene, from securing the perimeter during a street closure to calling "hold the traffic" and "all clear" during action sequences.
Why Two-Way Radios?Two-way radios are the preferred method of communication on film and TV sets for a multitude of reasons, such as:
Zero Dial Time – No need to unlock a phone, open an app, find a contact or wait for a call to connect. A director, producer or safety coordinator can speak to an entire department instantly with the press of a button.
Durability – Unlike mobile phones, two-way radios do not have glass screens and are built to better withstand accidental damage and general wear & tear. Many also have IP ratings to withstand water and dust ingress, making them more suitable for outdoor use.
Noise-Cancelling – Most radios come with noise-cancelling as a standard feature, providing the user with clear comms during loud or noisy set environments.
Guaranteed Comms - Two-way radios come in a wide range of solutions to keep teams connected, regardless of filming location.
Hands-Free Operation – Camera and lighting operators often need both hands free whilst they work. Headsets connected to radios allow them to receive and transmit messages without the need to stop what they are doing.
Why Chose Icom?
Icom professional radios come in a variety of different solutions to suit any film or TV set and often come with a range of features that are specifically useful within film and TV production. Examples include:
Smaller TV sets – Icom licence free
PMR446radios are easy to use and ideal for smaller teams in close proximity. The ultra-compact
IC-U20SR is an ideal solution for this situation, providing 600 mW audio for crystal clear comms and optional
VOXfunction for hands-free operation.
Medium to large TV sets – Digital licenced (IDAS) radios like the
IC-F1100D/F2100D Series or the
IC-F3400D/F4400D Series offer superior digital audio clarity and advanced features such as a built in GPS receiver, ANC (Active Noise Cancelling) Technology and ‘Lone Worker’ settings.
Large, multi-location productions – When wider coverage is needed, Icom
IP and
LTE radios such as the
IP110H and
IP503H can provide Nationwide coverage using 4G/LTE networks. These radios also offer full-duplex communication (like a phone call) and ability to set talk groups for each team (eg. Sound Team, Lighting Team etc) meaning that multiple users can initiate calls respectively without interfering with each other.
Remote / challenging locations – Filming nature documentaries or survival shows often means travelling to remote areas with minimal coverage. For these areas, the Icom
IC-SAT100 provides push-to-talk communication via satellite, keeping you connected when standard networks are unavailable.
Equipping your film crew with Icom radios ensures instant communication for streamlining operation, keeping the focus squarely on the perfect shot.
To find an Icom dealer specialising in two-way radio solutions for broadcast and film, contact Icom UK on 01227 741741 or
sales@icomuk.co.uk.
