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Load film in camera and set up accessories

URN: SKSC11
Business Sectors (Suites): Camera
Developed by: ScreenSkills
Approved on: 29 Mar 2020

Overview

​This standard is about loading film in cameras and setting up accessories.  This applies to film cameras.  This could apply to any type of production although it is more likely to be for feature films, TV dramas or commercials.   This could apply in a multi or single camera environment.

This includes fitting and securing magazines, lacing film, minimising camera noise, resetting footage counters and setting up and adjusting accessories.

This Standard is relevant anyone who has to load film including those working as 1st Assistants, Focus pullers and Camera assistants.

Performance criteria

You must be able to:

  1. ​monitor film use and inform relevant people when film needs to be changed
  2. change film magazines at times that minimise disruption to shots
  3. confirm that film cameras are clean and ready to receive magazines
  4. fit and secure magazines in designated places
  5. lace film along film paths so that it runs smoothly when cameras are operated
  6. adjust pull-down pitch so that film camera noise is minimized
  7. reset footage counters once magazines are in place
  8. set up, adjust and operate all relevant accessories in line with manufacturers' instructions
  9. communicate with other people and departments when required for your work
  10. work in line with health and safety requirements

Knowledge and Understanding

You need to know and understand:

  1. ​key characteristics of current film cameras, lenses and attachments and major obsolescent models
  2. camera handling techniques, types of damage that can occur and the implications of damage to cameras and film
  3. the implications of film running out during a shot and how and when to be assertive about film changing requirements
  4. the role of others involved and when to liaise with them including directors of photography, camera operators, directors and 2nd camera assistants
  5. techniques to protect film stock from environmental hazards
  6. any special requirements to ensure the safety and security of equipment when left unattended
  7. relevant manufacturers' instructions for the equipment in use
  8. the requirements of the relevant health and safety legislation and procedures
  9. how to interpret indicators relating to film use
  10. how to prepare, fit and secure film camera magazines
  11. how to lace film accurately
  12. how to set up, adjust and operate accessories including on-board monitors, remote control units, electronic synchronization units, rain deflectors and video taps
  13. how to assess collimation

Scope/range

Scope Performance

Scope Knowledge

Values

Behaviours

Skills

Glossary

Links To Other NOS

External Links

Version Number

3

Indicative Review Date

30 Mar 2024

Validity

Current

Status

Original

Originating Organisation

ScreenSkills

Original URN

CFP2

Relevant Occupations

Arts, Media and Publishing, Media and Communication, Media Associate Professionals

SOC Code

3417

Keywords

camera; camera magazines; types of film; camera accessories; lace film; health and safety requirements;