The Camera Assistant's Manual »

David E. Elkins is a working camera operator and first assistant cameraman with more than 25 years of professional experience working on feature films, television series, commercials, music videos, educational films, industrial films and much more. In addition to his production experience, he has taught numerous film production classes and workshops on both the east and west coasts of the United States. He is an active member of the International Cinematographers Guild Local 600 and Society of Camera Operators (SOC).

The Camera Assistant's Manual, Fifth Edition is a nuts and bolts guide offering beginning camera assistants and film students information on all aspects of this unique position within the film industry—from cinematography basics to interviewing for the job. Every film or video shoot calls for at least two camera assistants. Camera assistants (or first and second ACs, as they’re known) have the important job of maintaining the camera, readying it for use, troubleshooting (such as knowing what to do when a camera stops working), and preparing it for transport. This new edition features expanded sections on tips for the First and Second Assistant. The Camera Assistant's Manual teaches the complete workflow in easy-to-understand terms and does not assume prior knowledge. It is a must-have on the set for camera assistants. Invaluable career advice rounds out the book. Heavily illustrated and loaded with useful checklists, tables, and sample forms, The Camera Assistant's Manual is a must for every camera assistant’s ditty bag or tool kit.

* Completely updated with information on working in SD and HD video formats.

* Updated companion website (www.cameraassistantmanual.com) with extensive forms, charts, and camera illustrations to print out and use along with links to cinematography related websites

* Career tips and complete job descriptions to help camera assistants get and succeed at jobs

* Information on the differences between union and non-union productions along with information on how to join the union

* Expanded section including illustrations on many of the tools and items needed in the AC Ditty Bag

Introduction; Basics of Cinematography; The Camera Department; Second Camera Assistant (2nd AC); First Assistant Cameraman (1st AC); Problems and Troubleshooting; Cameras; Before, During and After the Job; Appendix A: Film Stock; Appendix B: Equipment; Appendix C: Camera Department Checklists, Production Forms, and Labels; Appendix D: Tools and Accessories; Appendix E: Tables and Formulas; Appendix F: Resources; Recommended Reading; Glossary; Index