Cinematographer
Der Picture Car Coordinator stellt sicher, dass die Fahrzeuge kamera-ready sind. Reflektionen, Farbe, Sauberkeit – alles muss stimmen für jeden Shot.
Specialist responsible for sourcing, preparing, and managing all vehicles appearing on camera in film and television productions – coordinates procurement, modifications, multiples, transportation, and on-set management of hero vehicles, background cars, and specialty vehicles.
What is a Picture Car Coordinator?
The Picture Car Coordinator is a film vehicle specialist who sources, prepares, and coordinates all vehicles that appear on camera. The role combines logistical, technical, and creative aspects.
Basic Principles
| Aspect | Description |
|---|---|
| Position | Transportation/Props |
| Responsibility | On-Screen Vehicles |
| Reports to | Production Designer, UPM |
| Department | Varies |
Main Tasks
| Task | Description |
|---|---|
| Sourcing | Acquire vehicles |
| Prep | Preparation for camera |
| Management | On-set supervision |
| Logistics | Transport, storage |
Vehicle Types
| Type | Description |
|---|---|
| Hero Vehicle | Primary vehicle |
| Picture Cars | Visible background vehicles |
| Stunt Vehicles | For action sequences |
| Period Cars | Historical vehicles |
Hero Vehicle
| Aspect | Description |
|---|---|
| Definition | Character vehicle |
| Quality | Perfect |
| Multiples | Often several |
| Attention | Highest |
Sourcing Methods
| Source | Description |
|---|---|
| Picture Car Houses | Specialized rental companies |
| Private Collector | Rare vehicles |
| Dealership | New models |
| Purchase | For stunts/destruction |
Preparation
| Task | Description |
|---|---|
| Detailing | Cleaning, polishing |
| Modifications | Adjustments |
| Camera Rigs | Mounts |
| Branding | Logos, lettering |
Modifications
| Type | Example |
|---|---|
| Cosmetic | Paint, aging |
| Functional | Stunt preparation |
| Period-Correct | Historical adaptation |
| Camera | Rig-mounting points |
Multiples
| Vehicle | Purpose |
|---|---|
| Hero #1 | Close-ups, beauty shots |
| Hero #2 | Driving shots |
| Stunt | Action, destruction |
| Insert | Special shots |
On-Set Management
| Task | Description |
|---|---|
| Staging | Positioning to set |
| Maintenance | Continuous upkeep |
| Continuity | Maintaining consistency |
| Communication | With all departments |
Collaboration
| Department | Topic |
|---|---|
| Production Design | Look, era |
| Camera | Rig requirements |
| Stunts | Action requirements |
| Locations | Access, parking |
Stunt Coordination
| Aspect | Description |
|---|---|
| Safety | Stunt preparation |
| Rollcage | For crashes |
| Breakaway | Destructible parts |
| Duplicates | For multiple takes |
Period Films
| Challenge | Solution |
|---|---|
| Availability | Source early |
| Authenticity | Attention to detail |
| Cost | Budget accordingly |
| Transport | Special handling |
Documentation
| Document | Content |
|---|---|
| Vehicle List | All vehicles |
| Continuity Photos | Document condition |
| Paperwork | Contracts, insurance |
| Schedule | Usage plan |
Budget Aspects
| Item | Description |
|---|---|
| Rental | Rental fees |
| Prep | Preparation costs |
| Transport | Delivery/pickup transport |
| Insurance | Insurance |
| Damage | Damage reserve |
Typical Costs
| Vehicle Type | Range/Day |
|---|---|
| Standard | $150-500 |
| Classic | $500-2,000 |
| Exotic | $1,000-5,000 |
| Stunt | Purchase price + prep |
Logistics
| Aspect | Description |
|---|---|
| Transport | Trailer, flatbed |
| Storage | Secure storage |
| Parking | On-set placement |
| Fuel | Full tank |
Challenges
| Challenge | Handling |
|---|---|
| Rare Vehicle | Early sourcing |
| Weather | Protective measures |
| Damage | Insurance, multiples |
| Schedule | Flexibility |
Career Path
| Level | Position |
|---|---|
| Entry | Transportation PA |
| Junior | Picture Car PA |
| Mid | Assistant Coordinator |
| Senior | Picture Car Coordinator |
| Lead | Transportation Captain |
Skills
| Skill | Importance |
|---|---|
| Vehicle Knowledge | Essential |
| Logistics | High |
| Networking | Critical |
| Budgeting | Important |
| Problem-Solving | Daily |
Best Practices
| Practice | Reason |
|---|---|
| Start early | Find rare cars |
| Plan backups | Alternatives |
| Document everything | Continuity |
| Communicate | Keep everyone informed |
Today
The Picture Car Coordinator is indispensable for any production featuring vehicles. From a single hero car to fleets for period films, the role demands deep vehicle knowledge, excellent logistical skills, and a broad network within the automotive community. The right person in this position saves budget and enables shots that would otherwise be impossible.
From the crafts
Perspectives
Director
Ein guter Picture Car Coordinator versteht, was ich brauche – vom perfekten Oldtimer bis zum Stunt-Double des Hauptfahrzeugs. Er macht das Unmögliche möglich.
Producer
Picture Car Koordination ist komplex und kostenintensiv. Der richtige Koordinator spart uns Geld durch clevere Beschaffung und vermeidet teure Verzögerungen.
More in the lexikon
Related terms
Test your knowledge
Quiz
1. Zu welchem Department gehört „Bildfahrzeug-Koordinator / Picture-Car-Koordinator / Fahrzeug-Koordinator"?
2. Wie viele verschiedene Fachperspektiven bietet dieser Eintrag?