Camera crew members may be the face of your production, but behind the scenes, there are a number of different roles that make sure the right person is in every shot and all video clips are edited together perfectly. In this article, we’ll break down common camera crew positions and what they’re responsible for.
What Are Camera Crew Positions?
The camera crew positions are among the most important ones on set. In the production world, they are responsible for capturing all of the film’s action. Each position has its own responsibilities and is required to have a very specific skill set. Some crew members will play multiple roles during filming depending on what is needed or requested by their director or cinematographer. The crew positions on any given production can vary greatly depending on what type of shooting you’re going to do, but it’s generally safe to say that there are six main roles a typical film crew might assume.
1) Director of Photography
The Director of Photography, or DP in some circles, is the leader of the camera crew. They work closely with directors and producers on creative decisions concerning lighting, framing, and cutting. The DP also liaises with other camera operators and technicians to ensure that everybody is ready for each scheduled shot in time for both principal photography and <a href="https://blog.jambox.io/what-is-post-production-video-editing”>post production work.
2) Camera Operator
A camera operator is the most important crew member in a movie or television production. The camera operator uses digital or analog camera technology, including high-speed motion picture cameras and lenses, to capture images of scenes or events on film or tape using framing marks to establish what is included in the final shot.
3) 1st Assistant Camera
İs responsible for receiving the director’s call sheet and obtaining equipment needed to prepare the camera crew. In preparation, he sets up and calibrates all camera equipment, including tripods and cameras, in order to organize the lighting set up. After these preparations are complete, he ensures that everything is safe and secure before calling “camera ready.”
4) 2nd Assistant Camera
The 2nd Assistant Camera is responsible for working with the camera department to ensure that all camera equipment is safe, secure and ready for use at a moment’s notice. The 2nd Assistant Camera is also tasked with conducting risk assessments, ensuring correct safety procedures are followed during filming, documentation of all safety incidents and injuries and carrying out general housekeeping duties in the camera department such as cleaning lenses and keeping inventory.
5) Focus Puller
The focus puller is one of the most important roles on a film crew, but it’s often misunderstood. A focus puller is responsible for adjusting the camera lens to achieve a sharp focus throughout a take and collaborating with the cinematographer to make sure every shot looks its best.
6) Grip
A grip is a crew member who positions and sets up lighting. They use many different kinds of rigging equipment, including tripods, scissor lifts, lights and other gear. Grips are responsible for setting up dolly tracks and securing them with sandbags, which helps keep the track stable so crew can move smoothly along it with their camera or jibs. They use clamps, weights, tape and other tools to hold things in place as well. The grip department works closely with the lighting department to make sure everything is set up in a way that allows for a smooth filming process.
FAQ
What is the role of a camera crew?
They are responsible for operating a variety of technical equipment including single and multiple portable cameras, remote-control and electronic cameras, cranes and mobile mountings.
What is a camera crew person called?
A camera crew person is called a camera operator or camera person.
What is a camera assistant called?
A focus puller or first assistant camera (1st AC)
