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Filmmaking Tips for Camera Assistants

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Doug Hart on the Job of the 1st Assistant Camera (Video)

Douglas Hart is one the most respected names within camera assisting / operating / cinematography circles. That's because he spent a good while as a camera assistant for Gordon Willis and is also the author of one of two essential books on camera assisting. This is a guy who has seen it all, done it all and despite his humble claims, probably knows it all too.

by Evan LuziCamera Assisting

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DPTV sat down for an interview with Doug Hart and had him talk about his job as a 1st assistant cameraman.

I really enjoyed listening to Hart talk, much like I enjoyed reading his book, and I admire the great success he has had in what can be a thankless job. I’m also glad that Hart was able to give some 1st assistant camera love when it seems that all the videos I’ve found as of late want to highlight the 2nd AC — not that I don’t think they deserve their praise, or, for that matter, a raise.

If you are just starting out in the camera department and haven’t checked out Hart’s book “The Camera Assistant: A Complete Professional Handbook,” it’s in your best interest to read it until you memorize it. And then read others like it.

Evan Luzi

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Creator of The Black and Blue. Freelance camera assistant and camera operator. Available for work: Contact Evan here. Learn more about Evan here.

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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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