Role of the camera man - Anbish

Role of the camera man

What does a camera man do ?

The film cameraman, or cinematographer, decides how each shot will be captured on film, and determines the various aspects involved in filming a shot. Working closely with the director, the camera person makes decisions about lenses and film to be used for each shot, how to frame the shot in the best possible way, which angle to shoot from and how to set up the equipment for a shot. The camera person has to coordinate work responsibilities with the costume designers, actors and other crew members.

History

The cinematographer was usually also the director and the person physically handling the camera. As the art form and technology evolved, a separation between director and camera operator emerged.

What I did ?

I was highly involved during pre production and production process. As being a camera man, I had to plan in the pre-production on the types of the shots that would be appropriate so I had to work with the director. Furthermore, I had to test shoot it so that the shots portrays the plot of the opening sequences.

Pre-production

• 

  Discussed the shot type an about cinematography.
• Read over the shot types.
• Reece- Went to look for the skate park in different locations.
• Checked if the equipments were available.
• Hazards while shooting.
• good source of light. For example, directly behind the sun.

Shooting

• Closely involved with the directors.
• Checked costume.
• Checked lighting, focus and white balance.
• Rehearsing the scene.
• Shooting and moving the camera.

Experience of role

I had a good experience being a camera man , even though there were times when I struggled. For example, I was unable to make decision when there was a huge amount of pressure because of the amount of retake we had to take. This was difficult and was more time consuming , which demotivated the group member, as it was getting late and they had to go home by a certain time.

Overall,It was a good experience, as I got improve my camera skills and got to work under extreme pressure. I think this will make me a better camera man in the future because this has allowed me to identify my weakness and strength.