At the Scene of “Doc Martin,” Series 7: Part 1 — The Crew

by Karen Gilleland  © 2015

I just returned from Port Isaac and the exciting experience of being an “extra” in an episode of “Doc Martin.” I came away with lots of photos and insights into what goes into the filming of this amazing show.

Watching the production, I’d describe the scene as “controlled chaos.” So much happens at one time, not to mention dealing with quick changing weather — sunny and warm one minute; cold, windy and rainy the next. Umbrellas, parkas, hats and gloves were always at hand.

In Part 1, I’ve selected photos showing activities that take place before filming begins. Stay tuned for updates and photos of Martin Clunes, Carolyn Catz and the rest of the cast.

Thanks to Linda Villelli, Joseph Barnett, Viola Brown, John & Pam Russell for supplying photographs for this series of posts.

Click on photo to enlarge image. Use back arrow, top of screen left, to return to page.

(To see additional stories about the trip, go to  Part 1, Part 2, Part 3, Part 4, Part 5, or the front page at karengilleland.wordpress.com)

Debbie Burdon, talking with me, takes charge of all the extras (hundreds throughout the production). She is tireless, running up and down the hills constantly. I am extremely grateful to Debbie, who was so gracious and solicitous toward me  the entire week.

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Simon Hayter, sound recordist for all seven series.

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Construction and props, building and changing camera fixtures require lots of people and take lots of time. Each scene is shot from various angles. The director watches on a display and can ask for additional takes if he sees something he’d like changed.

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Nigel Cole, man with white paper in his hands, is director for this episode. The man in the white hat is assistant director and calls out the instructions to the rest of the crew and cast.

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Nigel Cole, left, checking a shot.

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You can see Martin talking with crew member toward the right of photo.

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This apparatus is used to hoist the camera for a long view.

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Warren Tribe, standby rigger, was one of my favorite people.

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The crew lays camera railings for a tight shot just below the surgery.

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Other crew controlled the crowds (always politely), were responsible for getting the right lens to the cameraman, and handled myriad other assignments. Here are random shots of these folks and equipment.