Studio and outside broadcast camerawork

Across the wide range of camera techniques employed by film and video camera operators there are certain shared skills that are common to all forms of camerawork. Standard conventions in composition, camera movement and editing requirements (with small variations) are to be seen in the highest budgeted Hollywood blockbuster through to the modest two-minute regional magazine insert. Multi-camera camerawork shares these common characteristics with the addition of a few specialist requirements.

The layout of this manual identifies the following skills needed by a cameraman working on a multi-camera production:

  Technology: an understanding of camera technology, lens characteristics and studio/outside broadcast arrangements.

  Production methods: an understanding of television production technique and working practices.

  Rigging and safety: how to rig safely and operate a camera and a camera mounting.

  Basic skills: anticipation, preparation and concentration.

  Operational skills: basic camera and pedestal operational skills.

  Picture making skills: positioning the camera and lens.

  Intercutting: matching shots and edit points.

  Working in a camera crew: an understanding of the camera operator’s role in programme production and within a camera crew.

  Recording and transmission: types of multi-camera production and transmission procedure.

  Composition: an understanding of shot composition.

  Compositing techniques: blue screen working and virtual studios.

Teamwork

In addition to the above skills is the crucial fact that television programme making is a group activity and good teamwork is an essential ingredient for its success. The ability to work in a team is often overlooked when discussing camerawork as if this is not part of the necessary operational skills required. It is central to the job of a multi-camera television camera operator.

The importance of working both as a team and in a team cannot be overestimated. If you have difficulty working with people you will not enjoy multicamera camerawork. A television programme is created by a number of technicians exchanging information, modifying and fine-tuning the original concept.

The script or brief is brought to the screen via a number of specialist crafts such as, directing, design, lighting, vision control and camera crew. There is discussion and consensus between all crafts channelled through the director. The ability to discuss, inform and quite often reach a compromise from what one might consider ideal practice is part of working in a camera crew and being part of a production crew.

Not least of the skills required when working in such a group activity is the ability to communicate. If a large part of TV production involves problem solving then providing and seeking information about the specific project in hand is a key element in multi-camera camerawork.