What if we told you that the continuing future of filmmaking came in bits and bytes? It surely 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 called First Assistant Camera or 1st AC, won’t hold an opposing view of 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’re looking to is receiving a telephone call from the producer, grab the gig, ensure it is to the set promptly, and there you go – do what you’re proficient at – pulling focus. It hardly makes a difference what camera you choose to showcase your great talent.
There are 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 path leading to a great career.
1. Comprehend Digital Procurement and Formats – There are a few focus pullers who’re embarking on their journey leading to the world of the digital cinematography currently. It creates suddenly so clear that they will undergo the right training. Moreover, they’ll become proficient when operating an electronic camera.
Are you in this game for a long time? Then it might not be the case. You can find endless digital camera models that experienced a big change from the grass root level. It is because these cameras were put into action by productions with a poor 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 have very little experience with digital. Their experience is nearly next to none.
“In theory, there’s almost no change in the work: Laying marks usually do not change, criticism still seems simple, and pulling focus isn’t smooth. colowin But you need to comprehend a completely different group of technical information. Generally, you must grasp the basics of how image sensors operate, which cameras shoot the various file formats and a lot more.”
You always should be prepared to deal with any problems (arising out of nowhere). Maybe you won’t ever consider the notion of crack opening an electronic camera to fix it throughout a shoot, it’s important for you to understand how it functions inside.
A focus puller has to be the (go-to) technical person for several things regarding the camera.
Make a Sound Investment in Digital Specific Gear – The most obvious question people ask is what gear they ought to have within their toolkit. Well, it depends on which kind of a camera an individual uses to shoot on.
P.S – The tools that are used for a film camera seem unique of the ones used for a digital camera. Of course, there’s overlap, but you got to know that there’s gear that is specific to one format.
Here are some items which focus pullers have in their bags which are stringently used in digital productions:
Audio Cables and Adapters
USB Lens Light
MEMORY 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 (just in case).
Looking to continue to work in this industry? Then you need to make investments in the types of tools you need which you can use for digital cameras specifically.
3. No Need to Work with More Rehearsal Time – More likely to criticize me for this one? Remember that I’m working for you no matter what. Not only do rehearsals play an essential 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 just that, it’ll also assist you to shorten the time actually spent when shooting.
Ed Colman, an exceptionally talented cinematographer, once said: “If you are told to ‘shoot the rehearsal’ it isn’t a rehearsal anymore.” However 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. So when the rehearsals are being rolled on by these experts, they would like to record it.
Has the footage been thrown set 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 maintain your existence in this industry for long? You then have to make sure that you pick up all you need. You should even discover ways to cope with the added pressure without rehearsals. However, there will be a constant dependence on rehearsals for certain shots. And you will have times when you can 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 alert to 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.