The Answers
We pose a question to a group of veteran camera Ops, representing over 400 years of experience between them, about all aspects of the business. Answers are posted anonymously, because, in the end, there are rarely any absolute solutions to anything on set, but rather different ways that Ops deal with things. The idea is to see different opinions and then decide what would work best for you.
See their answers below, and, if you have a question of your own, email us, and we will add it to the queue.
What advice would you give a B operator who is looking for the skills necessary to become an A operator?
Watch. Listen. Take notes. Ask questions when it’s appropriate. There;’s a huge difference between being a B cam op and and A cam op and almost none of it has to do with actual operating. yes, you need to be able to land shots, set up shots, etc etc, but it’s really more about interacting with the Ad, the DP, the Director and the actors. You are much more of a traffic cop making sure everything is running well and keeping an eye on things than you are as a B camera operator. It’s not rocket science, but it’s also not completely apparent.
