Camera Department for Movie Production

He is currently prepping a film based on Laura Hillenbrand's best-

seller, Seabiscuit: An American Legend. Gary Ross, another friend since high

school, will direct the film.

An especially inspiring aspect of Schwartzman's career is that he has

managed to succeed in a business that requires excruciatingly long hours

and travel to sometimes primitive locations, all the while dealing with the

fact that he is a type one diabetic. "I'm the guy who travels with food and

insulin everywhere he goes, but I never let that stand in my way . . . I

love what I do, and although I may not always do it as well as somebody

else, I try my hardest. I always give 100%.

"There is a line in The Rookie, when Dennis Quaid's character says,

`You know what we get to do today? We get to play baseball!' I can cer-

tainly relate to that."

Job Overview

Under the direction of the director of photography, the camera opera-

tor 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.

Special Skills

Knowledge of cameras and lenses, light-meter readings, staging, light-

ing, composition, optics, and special effects is a must. Art or film schools

are good preparation for anyone desiring to become a camera operator or

cinematographer. Practical experience may be gained working at a motion

picture camera rental company. Communication skills are also important.

Advice for Someone Seeking This Job

Serving as a production assistant is one way to gain some practical set

experience and make contacts for future work. Another way to break into

the business is by working for a motion picture camera rental company,

where you will have an opportunity to learn about the equipment and

meet camera crew members currently working on productions. Volunteer

to work for free on student films and nonunion productions, music

videos or commercials. In the beginning, do whatever you can to get on

set where you can learn more about cameras and make contacts.

JOB TITLE: CAMERA OPERATOR

Camera Department for Movie Production - Page 20