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Maintain film cameras

URN: SKSC4
Business Sectors (Suites): Camera
Developed by: ScreenSkills
Approved on: 29 Mar 2020

Overview

​This standard is about the on-going maintenance of film cameras. 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.   

It includes lubricating film advance mechanisms, cleaning user accessible parts, testing collimation and tracking, removing jammed film, identifying malfunctions and broken components, performing remedial action and liaising with other people when you cannot resolve problems.

This Standard is relevant to those working as Lens engineers or Camera engineers.

Performance criteria

You must be able to:

  1. lubricate relevant components of film advance mechanisms
  2. maintain film camera mechanisms at relevant intervals
  3. clean all user accessible parts of film cameras
  4. test lens collimation and tracking in line with manufacturers' instructions
  5. remove, and resolve any problems related to jammed film
  6. use appropriate information to identify any mechanical or electrical malfunctions and broken components
  7. perform remedial action to resolve malfunctions or other problems that are within the limits of your expertise
  8. liaise with relevant people about any malfunctions or other problems that you cannot resolve
  9. store cameras and lenses in safe and secure locations when work is completed or when left unattended
  10. work in line with health and safety requirements at all times

Knowledge and Understanding

You need to know and understand:

  1. key characteristics of current film cameras, lenses and attachments and major obsolescent models
  2. when a film camera mechanism needs to be maintained
  3. camera handling techniques and the implications of damage to cameras and film
  4. cleaning and maintenance procedures and products for the camera equipment in use
  5. components of film advance mechanisms that  need lubricating including the movement, pull- down claw and register pin
  6. how to identify and remove the cause of jammed film
  7. how to identify and deal with damage and misalignment that is caused by jammed film
  8. current film camera and lens field maintenance techniques
  9. indicators of mechanical or electrical malfunctions and broken components and remedial action to resolve them
  10. the role of others involved and when to liaise with them including directors of photography, camera operators, directors and 1st and 2nd camera assistants
  11. the requirements of relevant health and safety legislation and procedures
  12. how to store cameras and lenses safely and securely
  13. any special requirements to ensure the safety and security of equipment when left unattended
  14. relevant manufacturers' instructions for the equipment in use

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

CFP3

Relevant Occupations

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

SOC Code

3417

Keywords

camera; maintenance; lenses; optics; magazines; film stock and accessories; film cameras;