screen production, unrealistic budgets, high expectations, pressure, under-resourced, long hours, mental exhaustion, physical exhaustion, emotional exhaustion, crew camaraderie, industry struggles, work-life balance, job satisfaction, relationships, industry challenges, shared experience, crew bonding, benefits, rates, screen industry, job appeal.

crew member, production, CV, T&C, Blue Book, NDA, contracts, gear insurance, flexibility, first pencil, overtime, invoices, IR330C, expense receipts, parking tickets, SIGANZ membership, production department, communication, respect, pay, advice.

Film Otago Southland, location access, screen industry, film crew, production services, TVCs, feature films, video on demand, branded content, Otago, Southland, location scouts, film-friendly, UNESCO World Heritage, filming permits, New Zealand, global mindset, camera gear, drones, UAV operators, equipment, production departments, film industry support, local talent, Writers in Residence Programme, KJ Jennings, Kahli Scott, Antony Deaker, film commissioners, regional film offices, NZFC, film-friendly councils.

gig economy, film industry, freelancing, New Zealand, contracts, workforce, training, tax, credit, TVC industry, subcontracting, advertising agencies, production companies, creative, offshore productions, location shoots, social media formats, marketing, post-production, drama, feature films, episodic drama, self-employed, Blue Book, SIG, William Goldman, career future-proofing, industry change, freelance directors.