


2nd AC’s also swap out lenses and replace memory cards and batteries when needed. They are also responsible for filling out the camera report, a vital tool for post production and handy if a shot needs to be reshot. One of their main responsibilities is slating, though on small indie shoots this task can fall on anyone who might be available to fill in, such as a PA or sometimes even talent. The second camera assistant reports directly to the 1st AC and is basically responsible for all the things the 1st AC might need help with. Once the shoot is wrapped, the 1st AC breaks down the camera and makes sure all equipment is packed up properly. They are also the person who rolls and cuts the camera at the beginning and end of every take. However on small indie shoots, the camera operator and the 1st AC might be the same person. When the production is ready to go for a take, the 1st AC’s work closely with the camera operator and are responsible for pulling focus on the camera. Once on set, they build out the camera and make sure all the settings are correct.

So let’s work our way down the line and start with the 1st AC, first! The 1st AC reports directly to the director of photography, and they make sure all the equipment in the camera kit is there and in working order before the shoot.Īnd speaking of equipment, they are also responsible for transporting the camera equipment to and from set. There’s the 1st AC, the 2nd AC, and then the camera production assistant, or PA for short. We’ve talked about what a Director of Photography is, but you might be thinking what exactly is a camera assistant? And how do they fit in the hierarchy of the camera department? So let’s go over what a camera assistant does and where they fit in.įirst off, there’s actually several different types of camera assistants, or ACs for short.
