Occupational map - sections
Camera Assistants support senior members of the Camera department, and undergo an important practical apprenticeship. Camera Trainees provide general support to the Camera department, while more senior Assistants carry out precise and complex technical tasks such as swinging camera cranes. Assistants learn crucial practical skills, which eventually help them to progress to more senior roles, such as Camera Operator and eventually Camera Supervisor. Hours may be long (12-14 hours a day), and the work is intensive and can be physically exhausting. Some travel may be involved, involving periods spent away from base, which can be challenging to home and family life. Established Camera Assistants can make a comfortable living, and are likely to progress to the next professional level within a few years.
What is the job?
Camera Trainees offer general support to the Studio/Outside Broadcast (OB) Camera department, carrying out simple tasks such as collecting equipment from stores, and assisting with rigging cameras and equipment. Camera Assistants offer general support to the Camera Operator, by rigging (setting up) cameras and accessories, and assisting with camera operation in any way required. They help to move cameras, 'bash' (handle and store) cables, and swing camera cranes. They may also be offered opportunities, under supervision, to operate cameras for simple shots. Programmes shot by multiple cameras are usually broadcast live, or recorded "as live", and Camera Assistants' work can be very intensive, sometimes stressful, and often exhilarating.
Typical career routes
Although specialist technical production courses and some training schemes offer good basic preparation for any role in the Camera department, industry experience is vital. Working as a Camera Trainee on a Studio/OB productions provides an ideal opportunity to observe how more senior Camera Assistants work, and to learn the necessary practical skills to eventually progress to becoming a Studio/OB Camera Operator.
Essential knowledge and skills
Camera Assistants need a working knowledge of how the relevant equipment works. At more senior levels, knowledge of the principles of framing and composition is desirable, and is essential for their eventual promotion to Camera Operator. As so much close liaison and teamwork are involved in all aspects of the work, excellent communication and people skills are vital. Key Skills include:
Training and qualifications
No specific qualifications are required for the role of Camera Assistant, although a good grounding in Mathematics and Physics, and a thorough understanding of the principles of stills photography are very useful. Some industry approved training courses, such as those run by FT2 or Cyfle provide a good grounding in camera work, but most Assistants acquire their practical skills through hands-on experience on the job. Continual professional development is vital, as technology changes rapidly. Attending short training courses, studying trade journals, and joining industry forums are effective ways to learn about new equipment, practices and techniques.
Where to go for more information
Skillset is the Sector Skills Council for the audio visual industries. The first sources of information for all jobs in the industry are the National Occupational Standards. Browse Skillset's website for links to our network of training partners, information about training and access to the comprehensive Skillset/BFI course database. Finally, Skillset Careers is the UK's only specialist media careers advice service; for detailed media careers information and advice, visit www.skillset.org/careers.
Websites
– The Guild of Television cameramen website holds useful forums and publishes Zerb - an excellent hands-on practical guide to camera work at all levels.
– The Guild of British Camera Technicians website aims to further the professional interests of British camera personnel
– The Broadcasting and Entertainment Trade Union BECTU, offers advice about employment terms and rights and useful information on health and safety.
– Cinematography Mailing List is a forum for all camera personnel, providing extensive information on the key principles of camera work.
– FT2;
– Cyfle
– National Film and Television School NFTS ;
Publications
– High Definition is an industry magazine which offers comprehensive information on all aspects of using the latest digital HD camera equipment.
– American Cinematographer American Cinematographer
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Camera Assistant (Studio / Outside Broadcasting) - TV
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