What is a Second Assistant Camera
Have you ever wondered how the camera department remains operating like a well oiled machine despite the changes and consistent demands taking place on set? Second Assistant Cameras are key to the smooth running system of the camera department. They carry the responsibilities of maintaining camera batteries and power, monitor magazine run time and prepare […]
What is a Grip
Ever wondered who rebuilds the camera and related equipment on set? Grips have the responsibility of maintaining all equipment that supports the camera when on set. This includes static rigs, tripods, jibs, cranes, dollies, tracks and various other delicate parts of the operation. Think about the Grip this way: each scene that is filmed requires […]
What is a Best Boy
The Best Boy is also known on the film set as the Assistant Chief Lighting Technician, the Assistant Chief Lighting Operator or the Assistant Chief Lighting Electrician. Originally coined from “The Gaffer’s Handbook,” the name “Best Boy” refers to the designated best electrician on the team according to the Gaffer. When it comes to logistics […]
What is a Boom Operator
The Boom Operator is responsible for appropriate microphone placement on the set despite potentially impeding conditions that would otherwise limit the ability to capture adequate sound. Boom Operators ensure that microphones are placed in a way that they do not impede the actor’s ability to function on the set and they also ensure placement out […]
What is a First Assistant Camera
A First Assistant Camera is responsible for adjusting or adapting the focus to accommodate changes to the focal length (distance of the camera lens from the subject) when characters are moving closer or further away from the camera. The First Assistant Camera (AC) is usually requested by the Director of Photography or the Camera Operator […]
What is a Production Sound Mixer
The production sound mixer is responsible for ensuring that all recorded dialogue is properly heard and clear during the filming production. This is a challenging role that requires advanced listening skills. Production sound mixers work in challenging environments where unwanted noises are likely to intrude with the otherwise properly displayed emotions of the script. Mixers […]
What is a Gaffer?
Also referred to as the Chief Electrician, Supervising Light Technician or Chief Lighting Technician, the Gaffer is responsible for all of the electrical work on a production. Gaffers will work closely with the Director of Photography to create the appropriate lighting effects by installing light equipment and arranging the power supply to achieve the desired […]
What is a Second Assistant Director
Second Assistant Directors are often referred to as Second ADs or Seconds. Their role is to act as an assistant to the First Assistant Director in ensuring that film productions orders are properly carried out. During production, Seconds have the responsibility of preparing the “call sheet” which documents the daily logistics of filming and is […]
What is a First Assistant Director
Also referred to as the “First AD” or simply just “First,” the First Assistant Director is the right-hand man (or woman) to the Director. First Assistant Directors take on various responsibilities in production allowing the Director to focus heavily on the creative process. First AD’s break the script down piece-by-piece into individual shots on a […]
What is a Film Director
You might be wondering, “What is a Film Director?” The Film Director is the creative voice and driving force behind the overall production of a film. Directors link all working parts in production, technical and creative teams together to effectively bring the creative vision to life through the film. Directors are responsible for several major […]