In short: A data wrangler copies the day's footage from camera cards and sound recorders onto at least two external drives, checks the copies for loss or corruption, labels and logs everything, then passes the files on to post-production. It is a junior role that can lead to editing or camera work. For a data wrangler on a Granary booking, ask for a quote.
A data wrangler backs up the day's footage on location, checks the copies and logs everything before the files go to post-production. On a shoot where the footage is the deliverable, losing a card is losing the work, so the job is about care and records as much as technology.
What a data wrangler does on a shoot day
The day's work starts when the cards and recorders come off set. The data wrangler takes the raw files, called rushes, and copies them to at least two external hard drives. They check each copy for loss or corruption, then label and log the files so anyone can find a take later.
The main steps are these:
- Copy. Make the first copy, then a second copy to a separate drive, before anything is formatted.
- Check. Confirm that the copies match the originals and that no files are corrupted.
- Label and log. Name each card and drive clearly, and record what is on each one.
- Deliver. Pass the files to post-production, and keep a record of who has received which footage and how many copies exist.
On some productions the data wrangler also logs footage. ScreenSkills notes that logging often uses similar software to data wrangling, which makes it a useful skill to have.
Who they work with
The data wrangler works closely with the camera operator and the director of photography, and liaises with the post-production team. Production coordinators keep the office informed. On some productions the wrangler reports directly to a digital imaging technician, though many shoots do not have one.
Kit and skills
The job needs knowledge of digital cameras, file formats, storage media and computers. ScreenSkills lists these skills as well:
- Attention to detail, so the files are labelled correctly and corruption is spotted.
- Problem solving, including fixing a faulty cable or connection under pressure.
- A calm, methodical way of working when the schedule is tight.
- An understanding of how the production roles fit together.
How to become a data wrangler
Data wrangling is a junior job and a route into editorial, post-production or camera work. ScreenSkills lists these common routes:
- Logger or runner. Post-production and unscripted TV logger or runner roles use similar software.
- Kit room assistant. Equipment rental companies offer a way into the camera department and build useful contacts.
- Apprenticeships. Some broadcasters run schemes, and a Level 3 photographic assistant apprenticeship in England can build skills outside TV.
- Courses and experience. Level 3 qualifications in media, film, photography or digital media help, and short specialist courses sharpen the skills. A degree is not essential.
Attend industry events, join online groups and register on free crew databases. Watch the work of production companies you want to join, and check their listings. Bectu, the media and entertainment union, takes members at the start of their careers, and ScreenSkills' free training and job profiles are the other place to start.
Do you need one on a small shoot?
- A single-camera talking head or podcast: not necessarily. A second drive and a strict naming habit cover most of it.
- A multi-day shoot or a multi-camera job: yes. Several cards a day and a deadline make one person responsible for the copies worth the cost.
- Any job where the footage cannot be reshot: someone must own the backups, even if that is the camera operator making two copies on the same day.
The points here are general guidance on copying and logging. Your own workflow should match what the post-production team needs. Granary's film crew hire page sets out how crew is booked.
Related roles
Sources
- ScreenSkills, Data wrangler, unscripted TV job profile, read 5 November 2026
- Bectu, New entrants, read 5 November 2026
Related guides
Questions we get asked
What does a data wrangler do on a film set?
A data wrangler backs up the footage from cards and recorders onto at least two external drives, checks the copies, labels and logs everything and passes the files to post-production. They keep a record of who has received each set of files.
Is a data wrangler the same as a DIT?
Not always. A data wrangler focuses on backing up, checking and logging the footage. A digital imaging technician (DIT) can also set up cameras and adjust the live pictures. ScreenSkills describes the DIT role as the next step up for experienced wranglers.
Do you need a data wrangler on a small shoot?
Not for a single-camera talking head. A second copy of the footage matters on any shoot where the files are the deliverable, so on a multi-day or multi-camera job, someone should own the backups.
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