What if we told you that the continuing future of filmmaking came in bits and bytes? It really does! This is why why some follow focus pullers may find it hard to survive the future of the digital cinematography.
Any experienced focus puller also known as First Assistant Camera or 1st AC, won’t hold an opposing view to the fact that DSLRs already outweigh the pros of film camera on the production lines. And the admiration with which they’re released and also adopted is simply unbelievable.
Are you really worried about all that obsession? What you are looking to is receiving a phone call from the producer, grab the gig, ensure it is to the set on time, and there you go – do what you’re proficient at – pulling focus. It hardly makes a difference what camera you decide to showcase your great talent.
You can find three creative ways when adapted, make focus pullers survive in the digital cinema they’re so keen on. Well, these adaptations may seem like taking a walk in the park for you personally, but don’t you forget all of them will play their respective role in your way leading to a great career.
1. Comprehend Digital Procurement and Formats – There are several focus pullers who’re embarking on their journey leading to the world of the digital cinematography at this moment. It creates suddenly so clear that they can undergo the right training. Moreover, they will become proficient when operating a digital camera.
Have you been in this game for a long time? Then it will not be the case. You can find endless digital camera models that experienced a big change from the grass root level. The reason being these cameras were apply by productions with an unhealthy budget.
As time passed by, the format was adopted a high amount of prominent Hollywood productions. So, it indicates there are several 1st ACs who’ve very little experience with digital. Their experience is nearly next to none.
“In theory, there’s almost no change in the job: Laying marks do not change, criticism still seems simple, and pulling focus isn’t smooth. But you need to comprehend a completely different group of technical information. Generally, it is advisable to grasp the basics of how image sensors operate, which cameras shoot the many file formats and a lot more.”
You always must be prepared to deal with any problems (arising out of nowhere). Maybe you won’t consider the notion of crack opening an electronic camera to fix it during a shoot, it’s important that you understand how it functions on the inside.
A focus puller should be the (go-to) technical person for all things regarding the camera.
Make a Sound Investment in Digital Specific Gear – Decreasing question people ask is what gear they should have within their toolkit. colowin88 Well, it depends on which kind of a camera an individual uses to shoot on.
P.S – The tools that are useful for a film camera seem different than the ones being used for a digital camera. Needless to say, there’s overlap, but you got to know that there’s gear that is specific to one format.
Here are some items that focus pullers have within their bags which are stringently used in digital productions:
Audio Cables and Adapters
USB Lens Light
Memory Card Readers (SD and CF)
Well, it’s good to know information that none of the above-listed items are essential on a film set, but they’re good things to have (in the event).
Looking to continue to work in this industry? Then you need to make investments in the forms of tools you need which you can use for digital cameras specifically.
3. No Need to Work with More Rehearsal Time – Likely to criticize me for this one? Remember that I’m working for you no matter what. Not merely do rehearsals play a very important role for focus pullers but they’re also essential to film crew. When you practice a shot, it not merely helps you set up a flow but fix mistakes as well. Not only that, it’ll also help you shorten the time actually spent when shooting.
Ed Colman, an exceedingly talented cinematographer, once said: “If you are told to ‘shoot the rehearsal’ it isn’t a rehearsal anymore.” But the undeniable truth (sounding unfortunate) is that rehearsals have become a priceless entity.
With digital camera models, both directors and assistant directors feel there is no harm in terms of rolling on the rehearsals. Even producers think alike. And when the rehearsals are increasingly being rolled on by these experts, they want to record it.
Gets the footage been thrown in for being shot? Gets the slate been clapped? Well, you’re just about taking a plunge straight into Take One regardless of what you call it.
Final Words
Want to sustain your existence in this industry for long? Then you have to make sure that you pick up all you need. You should even understand how to deal with the added pressure without rehearsals. However, you will have a constant dependence on rehearsals for certain shots. And you will have times when you’ll be able to have one.
Don’t forget that there’s always be a desirable need for Focus Pullers or First Assistant Camera, and crew who’s well aware of the technical side of the camera can handle it without hassles.
In the end, it’s you who must judge how you’ll adapt you to ultimately the ever-changing industry.