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CAMERA DEPARTMENT - Job Title: Cinematographer Or Director Of Photography (dp), Job Title: Camera Operator, Job Title: Steadicam Operator

crew assistant film cameraman

The cinematographer is responsible for creating and capturing the overall photographic impression of a film. As head of the camera department, responsible for hiring the camera crew, the cinematographer oversees the camera operator, first assistant cameraman or focus puller, second assistant cameraman, and the film loader. On large productions, the camera crew might also include a camera department assistant or PA. Depending on the director's needs, a steadicam operator may join the crew for a few days or the duration of the production.

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CAMERA DEPARTMENT - Job Title: Cinematographer Or Director Of Photography (dp)

During preproduction, the cinematographer meets with the director to discuss his overall vision for the film, and the specific needs of individual scenes. Based upon these discussions, the cinematographer selects the necessary cameras, equipment, and film stocks, and preps the lighting and grip departments for anticipated needs. Throughout production, the cinematographer determines how each scene …

CAMERA DEPARTMENT - Job Title: Camera Operator

Under the direction of the director of photography, the camera operator composes and frames the shot, and operates the motion picture camera. On smaller productions and commercials, it is not uncommon for the director of photography to also operate the camera. Knowledge of cameras and lenses, light-meter readings, staging, lighting, composition, optics, and special effects is a must. Art or film s…

CAMERA DEPARTMENT - Job Title: Steadicam Operator

The Steadicam is a portable camera system that attaches to the body of the operator, and is generally used to smoothly capture shots that other cameras cannot, such as going up and down stairs or through narrow hallways. As designated by the director and cinematographer, the Steadicam operator composes and executes shots using this camera system. Although it is not necessary to be large in stature…

CAMERA DEPARTMENT - Job Title: First Assistant Cameraman, Assistant Cameraman, Or First Assistant Camera Operator

“The first assistant cameraman is in charge of running the department in terms of ordering cameras and equipment needed, checking in the equipment, setting it up, and making sure it is running properly, threading the camera, and maintaining it,” says first assistant Anthony Cappello. “But our primary function is to pull focus.” “Pulling focus” is the act o…

CAMERA DEPARTMENT - Job Title: Second Assistant Cameraman, Assistant Cameraman, Or Second Assistant Camera Operator

The second assistant cameraman orders and maintains the camera equipment, ensures it is on set when needed, marks the actors’ positions during rehearsals, and slates each take. The second is also responsible for camera crew paperwork, such as camera and film inventory lists and time sheets. Additionally, on some shoots, the second assistant also performs the duties of the film loader. …

CAMERA DEPARTMENT - Job Title: Film Loader

The main job of the film loader is to load film into camera magazines in a darkroom. Loaders maintain accurate film inventories and assist the camera crew. “Essentially,” says film loader/second assistant cameraman Mike Gentile, “my job encompasses just about anything that makes life easier for my camera crew. When I'm not dealing with film issues, I may be found changi…

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