First team: Meaning in Film Production

First team

Definition

First team is the set term for the principal actors in the scene being shot. When lighting and camera are ready, the 1st AD calls 'first team in' or 'first team to set', and the actors replace their stand-ins, who are the second team, for final rehearsal and takes.

Where "first team" fits in the setup cycle

Every new setup on a single-camera set follows roughly the same order:

Blocking rehearsal with first team, so the director, DP, and actors work out the action. Marks go down.
First team is released to finish hair, makeup, and wardrobe, or rest. "Second team in."
Second team (stand-ins) take the marks while electric, grip, and camera light and rehearse moves.
The DP tells the AD they're close. "First team, please." The 2nd 2nd AD sends for the actors.
First team arrives, last looks, rehearsal if needed, then "picture's up" and rolling.

The 1st AD is timing that whole loop. If actors arrive too early, they stand around under hot lights while electric finishes; too late and the whole crew waits.

A typical exchange on the walkie

1st AD: "Grip, how are we looking?" Key grip: "Two minutes on the flag." 1st AD: "Copy. Kenny, can I get first team on the way? Maya and Joe to set." 2nd 2nd AD: "Copying. Maya's in the chair finishing up, walking in five."

That exchange tells you something about scheduling. If makeup needs five more minutes and grip needs two, the first take is at least five minutes out. On the call sheet, the "on set" time for cast is the first-team estimate for their first scene.

Where the confusion comes in

"First team" means whoever is in the shot. A day player with two lines is first team for that scene. A series regular sitting in their trailer for a scene they're not in isn't.

Another point of confusion: calling "first team" doesn't mean the setup is ready to shoot. There may still be a rehearsal with actors, a camera adjustment, and last looks. New PAs sometimes lock up the location on "first team in" when the AD hasn't called roll yet, which frustrates neighbors and crew. Wait for the rehearsal or roll call.

Who handles first team

The 2nd 2nd AD usually runs the actors between base camp and set, and the 2nd AD tracks their in and out times for the Exhibit G. Actors who are released between setups still count as working, so first team timing affects their hours.

Frequently asked questions

What does 'first team in' mean?

It's the 1st AD calling the principal actors to set because the shot is lit and ready for them. Stand-ins step out, and the actors come in for a final rehearsal or the first take.

Are background actors first team?

No. First team means the principal cast in the shot. Background actors are cued separately, and featured extras may be handled by the 2nd 2nd AD or a background PA.

Who brings first team to set?

The 2nd AD or 2nd 2nd AD, often with a set PA, walks actors from their trailers or holding. The 1st AD gives the call and the 2nd team clears out as the actors arrive.