What is a Logger?
A Logger is an individual who is responsible for transcribing and logging all the footage from a production.
What is the Job?
The role of Logger will involve logging hours of footage from production, and this can happen either live or during the edit. This process creates a concise document for the Editor or other production staff which enables them to pick out key parts from the filming process quickly. It is the Logger’s responsibility to write summarised notes on what is happening in each scene, picking out the cast, topics and other relevant information within each shot. This is all recorded along with dates and time-codes.
Their duties will include watching live or pre-recorded footage, and reading scripts to find the key information that needs to be assigned to it. They will pick out themes, topics, characters, or talking points that have been highlighted by the Producers or Directors. Loggers are usually employed either during production or in post-production. Their role is highly important as their summaries save the Editor a huge amount of time.
Key Skills
- Ability to write/type quickly and accurately
- Good editorial skills
- Ability to pick out important details from a story
- Good attention to detail
- Ability to work efficiently in pressured environments
- Excellent time management and organisation skills
- Ability to work independently
Salary & Working Hours
The average annual salary for a Logger is around £18,000. This is an entry-level position, and your pay will vary depending on the scale and type of production. Working hours are likely to vary too, as you may be working on a part-time basis or as part of an internship.
How To Become a Logger
In order to become a Logger, you will not need any specific qualifications, however a degree in a relevant subject may provide you with useful knowledge that will help you in the role. In addition to this, gaining work experience at a production company, and familiarising yourself will software such as Forscene, Cinergy and AFrame will help your chances of securing a role. Most employers will train new employees on necessary software, so if you’re lacking experience then this shouldn’t be a problem. A typing speed of at least 50 words per minute is expected, and you must have a good attention span, be detail-orientated and have a knack for identifying key plot points and story lines.
Where Can It Take You?
As a Logger is generally considered a entry-level role, after a year or so you may be able to apply for positions such as Junior Researcher, Data Wrangler or Edit Assistant. If you’re more interested in technology, then you could move to the role of Digital Image Technician. Most Loggers aspire to move on to the role of Editor, as this means they are still involved in the editorial process, but they have more control in managing the data flow coming in from shoots..
Become a Logger
If you are ready for the next step in your career, why not take a look at the latest Logger vacancies on our jobs board? You can view our latest vacancies here.