Working with Camera Dept. on BFI/BBC Drama

Written By Charles Harter

Last week (19-22 April ‘22), I had the amazing opportunity to observe and assist on the kit testing process with the camera department at No Drama In Manchester before the start of production on a low budget, debut feature supported by the BBC and BFI. I was working there with 1st AC Louise Murphy, 2nd AC Conor Dunlop and Camera Trainee Maya Ou, and It was an invaluable experience being able to shadow an amazing crew from start to finish, having the chance not only to see an industry standard process in full, but to also have the pleasure of working with such an exciting kit list, including;

  • Arri Alexa Mini LF

  • Rehoused Canon K35 Prime Cinema Lenses

  • ZERO OPTIK Rehoused Nikon Prime Lenses (One of only 2 sets in the country!)

  • Leica Noctilux 50mm

  • Lomo Anamorphic Lenses

  • Arri WCU-4 Follow Focus

  • Cine Tape and CineRT Kits

  • Teradek Wireless Kit and ServePro Systems

As well as showing me everything about the kit and what they were doing, answering all of my questions in detail, and offering the opportunity to learn the processes and scale of this kind of job on a professional level, they were keen to get me more hands on with some of the handling and operating of the equipment and with other jobs that needed to be done. This meant things like;

  • Learning proper practice when handling/passing master lenses or any other heavy (or expensive) equipment

  • Calibrated and operated the CineRT and WCU-4 systems during multiple tests

  • Operated the camera and WCU-4 while setting up the lead frames

  • Set up rigging and cabling on the camera cage

  • Wrote the slates for some the colour test shots

  • Handling of and in-camera de-squeezing of Anamorphic lens

  • Striped all of A Camera Team’s Boxes and flight cases

  • Packed and Arranged the camera truck

I was lucky enough to be able to observe the D.o.P come in to test different sets of lenses, and filters for the look and lens flare due to the film calling for shooting in the style of different genres. Watching the conversation and efficient working relationship between members of a professional department was very educational, and the way the D.o.P and focus puller work together on takes - even during test shots - as one is truly a demonstration of dedication to craft.

I had a really amazing time working with them, it was a great atmosphere and I want to thank everybody for making me feel so welcome and part of the team. I’d especially like to thank Louise, who was my main point of contact and arranged for me to be there, who taught me a lot, not only on the equipment and process of the week; but also on advice for my career going forward, and I’m looking forward to being able to work together again soon. I couldn’t have been with a nicer group of people and I hope they have an amazing shoot!

CH

28.03.22

Charles Harter