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The Daily Dish Producer Secrets

A Vanderpump Rules Show Insider Reveals the "Hardest Parts of Filming" to Tom Schwartz

Vanderpump Rules' Director of Photography, Toby Birney, breaks down to Tom Schwartz what it's like working on the series.

By Jamontae Hickman

Tom Schwartz is ready to “trade” roles with a Vanderpump Rules production member.

How to Watch

Watch Vanderpump Rules on Peacock and the Bravo app.  

That’s right! The Schwartz and Sandy’s co-owner is taking a break from sharing his life on camera to work his magic behind the lens – but only temporarily.

In the clip above, Tom sits down with Vanderpump Rules’ Director of Photography Toby Birney for a BravoTV.com exclusive to discuss his time working on the show and reveals how he thinks of the cast as “family.” 

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Tom Schwartz and Toby Birney discuss working on Vanderpump Rules  

“Who’s your favorite cast member and why?” Tom asks to which Toby admits without hesitation, “Lisa Vanderpump.”

Of course, Toby’s response surprised Tom as he “didn’t think” the crew member would answer the question. 

Shortly after, Toby opens up about his time working on the series, revealing that he started back on “Season 4” and has been a part of the team ever since. Tom then prompted the crew member to explain the purpose of his role in the series. To hear what Toby says, watch the video above.

Toby Birney and Tom Schwartz prepping a camera so that Tom can operate it

Toby Birney on the “hardest part of filming” Vanderpump Rules

After clarifying his job description, Toby continues to reveal a few challenges that may arise, telling Tom that things get complicated during “big all-cast events.” However, it’s nothing the professional can’t handle, as he explains how it takes control of the situation.

Find out how he directs his staff by pressing play on the clip above.

Toby Birney explains his relationship with Tom Schwartz and the Vanderpump Rules cast

Toby has been working on the series for nearly a decade, and since then he has built genuine bonds with the Vanderpump Rules cast. In fact, he witnessed Tom’s proposal to Katie Maloney back in Season 4. “I think I cried on that one.” Toby says. “I feel the emotion on what’s happening on any scene, you know you guys are like family to me.”

See Tom's reaction to Toby’s heartfelt remarks by checking out their full interview clip at the top of this post.

Watch new episodes of Vanderpump Rules on Tuesdays at 8/7c on Bravo. Stream episodes the next day on Peacock

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