Additional Topics
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 …
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…
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…
“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…
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. …
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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User Comments
over 4 years ago
CAMERA-DEPARTMENT Job Title: Camera Operator,
over 4 years ago
CAMERA-DEPARTMENT Job Title: Camera Operator,
over 4 years ago
CAMERA-DEPARTMENT Job Title: Camera Operator,
over 4 years ago
CAMERA-DEPARTMENT Job Title: Camera Operator,
over 4 years ago
CAMERA-DEPARTMENT Job Title: Camera Operator,
over 4 years ago
CAMERA-DEPARTMENT Job Title: Camera Operator,