Asking questions is critical, especially when you’re working lower in the department as a 2nd assistant camera (AC) or loader. Without asking for clarification, you may not know exactly what to do, where to go, or what is expected.
Articles Tagged with "2nd Ac"
Be a Faster AC #3: Maximize Your Camera Prep
With expensive cinema cameras, there really is no other way to make sure gear is ready to get slogged through an intense production than a camera prep. Not all shoots you work on will give you a prep day, but plenty will — and you have to maximize it.
Be a Faster AC #2: Cut Down on What You Say When Slating
Beginning camera assistants (ACs) have a tendency to do two things wrong when slating: they speak too slow and they announce everything on the slate. I know this because I was guilty of it and, as I trained others, noticed how they would fall into the same trap.
Be a Faster AC #1: Use a Camera Cart for Your Gear
Some camera packages contain an abundance of cases that slow you down when you have to move them. Even simply turning around in a scene is a hassle as you move each case one-by-one until the whole lot is out of the shot. With a camera cart, you can simply wheel everything away all at once in an instant.
How to Read the DP’s Mind & Stay One Step Ahead
As camera assistants, our job is to remove the technical aspect of camerawork from the director of photography so they can focus on creative needs. If you are able to stay one step ahead of the DP, that’s one less thing distracting them from their creative demands.
Warning: Sign That Deal Memo at Your Own Risk
Deal memos are traditionally seen as legal protection for the production company hiring you, but it’s a two way street. These documents also secure certain rights of your own, most importantly your right to get paid.
Why You Should Get Google Plus and Unlock Its Potential for Freelance Filmmakers
For you as a filmmaker, if Google Plus is here to stay, it has the opportunity to change how you network with crew, how you produce movies with them, and even how you find work.
Kermit the Frog’s Guide to Knowing Nothing
If you want to be successful in the film industry, getting over the hump of inexperience is the first obstacle in your way. You’ll have to suck it up, push through, and hope you come out on the other side unscathed with a bit more knowledge than before – and maybe a 2nd job.
7 Last-Minute Checks Before You Roll Camera
It’s easy to let something slip or for changes to be made without you noticing. While not always malicious, these small changes can have a big effect on a quality take and force everyone else to reset and go again. So before you get ready to punch that little button on the side of the camera, do these 7 last-minute checks.
5 Situations That You’ll Want to Hire a Pro Camera Assistant
Too many productions cut their budget by cutting the camera assistant (AC). This is a mistake. When the director of photography (DP) worries about the lights, the grips, and composition, do you really want to leave them also shouldering the duties of lenses and filters?