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Assist camera operators during shooting

URN: SKSC25
Business Sectors (Suites): Camera
Developed by: ScreenSkills
Approved on: 29 Mar 2020

Overview

​This standard is about assisting camera operators, who may not be able to leave their position, during shooting.  This could apply to any type of production including feature films, TV dramas, commercials, documentaries, sports coverage, outside broadcast and live or stage events.  This could apply to a multi or single camera shoot.

This includes managing cables, obtaining and rigging additional equipment, assisting with camera movement and operation, communicating with crew members and dealing with any faulty equipment.

This standard is for anyone who provides assistance to camera operators during shooting.

Performance criteria

You must be able to:

  1. ​keep cable routing tidy throughout shooting
  2. lay out cables to facilitate efficient movement and repositioning of cameras and other equipment
  3. handle and 'bash' cables of moving cameras to facilitate smooth and safe operation, and to reduce noise levels
  4. check camera tracking routes on a continuous basis to ensure they are free of people and equipment
  5. communicate with crew members at appropriate times
  6. assist camera operators with repositioning, rigging, re-rigging and re-plugging of camera equipment in line with requirements
  7. assist camera operators with camera movement and operation in line with requirements
  8. obtain ancillary equipment, consumables, or information when camera operators are unable to leave their operational positions
  9. report any faulty equipment and replace it, or take it for repair, in line with agreed procedures
  10. collect and return any ancillary or additional equipment to specified places at the end of shooting

Knowledge and Understanding

You need to know and understand:

  1. ​behaviour and protocols when working in a shooting environment
  2. the relevant health and safety legislation, risk assessments, and other instructions for the camera equipment in use, and how to implement safe methods of working
  3. why it is important to be aware of camera shooting angles, tracking routes, artistes' eye-lines, sight-lines, and live sound
  4. the logistical and safety implications of cable routing and reasons for keeping cabling tidy including ensuring safety of people and avoiding damage to cables or equipment
  5. how to avoid damage to cables and to the equipment connected to them
  6. how to guide cables of moving cameras to facilitate smooth, safe, and quiet operation
  7. how to reposition, rig, and plug in camera equipment
  8. the basic terminology and techniques of camera operation
  9. how to move and operate cameras including how to track or crane camera mounting, zoom or focus the lens
  10. where and how to obtain ancillary equipment and consumables
  11. who to contact for advice or information
  12. how to report and replace faulty equipment 
  13. how and where to return equipment at the end of the shoot

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

C17

Relevant Occupations

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

SOC Code

3417

Keywords

camera; rig; rigging period; camera crew; multi-camera television shoot; camera crew; live broadcast; recorded broadcast; camera operations;