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Filmmaking Tips for Camera Assistants

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‘Focused’ The Profile of a Camera Assistant (Video)

This video comes from the UK's "4Talent" show in 2008. It profiles camera assistant Gordon McMillan, who actually is technically a focus puller (the British film system is different from the American system).

by Evan Luzi | Camera Assisting | July 18, 2010 | Comments: 0

What I like about this piece is that Gordon seems like a human AC, capable of messing up a focus pull and admitting he could do better. A little humility is rare to see in these types of videos, although maybe he could have done better with a little iPhone help. Enjoy the video!

Related posts:

  1. Camera Assistant Failure and Advice to Avoid Doing It Yourself (Video)
  2. A Salute to 2nd AC’s Everywhere (Video)
  3. Doug Hart on the Job of the 1st Assistant Camera (Video)
  4. Tarantino’s 2nd Assistant Camera Slate Montage (Video)

About the AuthorEvan Luzi

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Creator of The Black and Blue. Freelance camera assistant and camera operator for over a decade. He also runs a lot. Learn more about Evan here.

Read Next

Camera Assistant Failure and Advice to Avoid Doing It Yourself (Video)

Camera Assistant Failure and Advice to Avoid Doing It Yourself (Video)

I want to call attention to a video I found simply titled "Camera Assistant Failure." In the video, the AC finds himself in a tight squeeze with a tricky focus pull, except he handled it poorly.

  • A Salute to 2nd AC's Everywhere (Video)
  • Doug Hart on the Job of the 1st Assistant Camera (Video)
  • Tarantino's 2nd Assistant Camera Slate Montage (Video)
  • The Art of Pulling Focus (Video from FreshDV)
3 Simple Ways to Become a Better Focus Puller Over the Weekend

3 Simple Ways to Become a Better Focus Puller Over the Weekend

Do you find pulling focus to be tough? You're not the only one. As Sam Garwood says, it's "a really simple really difficult job." The physical act is easy, but the mental pressure is immense. Even if you're an experienced focus puller, honing the skill is an ongoing battle.

  • How to Clean a Camera Lens Without Damaging the Glass
  • Three Must-Have Skills for Pulling Focus and How You Can Improve Them
  • 7 G&E Techniques Useful to Camera Assistants
  • Don't Be Stupid: The IATSE Local 600's Free Guide to Setiquette

Happy Labor Day: The Film Industry Should Treat Crew Better

Today is Labor Day in the United States and, as we recognize this national holiday dedicated to the achievements of the American workforce, it's important to acknowledge that the crew in the film industry – the labor – hold more skill, talent, and power than is being recognized and rewarded.

  • 'The Gift of Room Tone' featuring Martin Scorsese, Roger Deakins, Cristopher Walken, and More
  • Focus Puller Chris Silano on Using the Preston Light Ranger
  • Tom Cruise Isn't Messing Around with COVID Safety
  • 20 Holiday Gifts for Camera Assistants (That Your Family Can Actually Afford)
Becoming the Reel Deal eBook Cover on iPad

It Only Takes One Gig.

Becoming the Reel Deal is a free downloadable eBook written to help you get your first job on set in the camera department so you can launch your film career.

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