WHAT DOES A CONCEPT ARTIST DO? (In the Entertainment industry. What Does a Concept Artist Do?)

Predator Concept Art by Stan Winston / Photo Credit: Film Sketchr - Stan Winston

WHAT DOES A CONCEPT ARTIST DO? (In the Entertainment industry. What Does a Concept Artist Do?)

Bruce Bisbey…please follow me at: https://dumbdogproductionsllc.blogspot.com or https://www.facebook.com/DumbDogProductionsLLC/ thank you.

What Does a Concept Artist Do?

Within the art department of a film or television production, a concept artist aids designers in the rendering or drafting necessary to clarify ideas for the construction of props, scenery, costumes, and visual effects elements.

Concept art is a form of illustration used to convey an idea for use in films, video games, animation, comic books, or other media before it is put into the final product. Concept art usually refers to world-building artwork used to inspire the development of media products, and is not the same as visual development art or concept design, though all three are often confused.

Concept art is developed through several iterations. Multiple solutions are explored before settling on the final design. Concept art is not only used to develop the work, but also to show the project's progress to directors, clients and investors. Once the development of the work is complete, concept art may be reworked and used for advertising materials.

Duties

A concept artist, sometimes referred to as an illustrator, can take an abstract idea and turn it into a tangible, visual representation. At the request of any member of the art department or related department (costume, props, visual effects, etc.) or on behalf of the director and producer, the concept artist provides sketches, paintings, or visual depiction in another medium that demonstrate the designer’s vision of a production element. For example, the set designer may need drawings of a building’s façade, or the special effects makeup artist and director may want to see several different renditions while trying to narrow down the look of an alien character. If the director asks for a bridge, the concept artist is expected to deliver every different interpretation of a bridge matching the director’s description.

By participating in brainstorming meetings with the director and designers, the concept artist is able to focus in on the keywords of the idea and then retreat to his or her workspace to produce multiple versions of the necessary drawing. He or she will experiment with different color palettes and styles; the parties involved will choose the iterations they prefer and offer suggestions for revision. The concept artist will repeat this process, paying careful attention to feedback, until a final concept is agreed upon.

Skills & Education

A college degree in studio art is recommended, including coursework in drawing, painting, sculpture, photography, and art history. Also encouraged is the study of anatomy, in order to accurately replicate human and animal forms, and the study of architecture, to provide a strong foundation for illustrating buildings and other structures. Just as important as artistic talent is the ability to assimilate a few abstract ideas into a clear, expressive drawing. It is the concept artist’s job to help the designer or director to clarify and refine his or her vision to the other members of the team. Quick hands are also a benefit, as the concept artist works under tight deadlines.

What to Expect

Concept Artists work on big budget sci-fi, fantasy or historical films where visual and special effects create design spectacles, fantastical creatures or other invented elements. There are usually a number of Concept Artists, each working on a specific element, e.g., a fantastical creature and/or scene.

Concept Artists start work at the beginning of pre-production, up to six months before filming is due to begin.

If the screenplay is an adaptation (for example, of a book), they analyze the descriptions in the original source material. They may work with Specialist Researchers who also help source and supply relevant information and materials.

Concept Artists work in the art department studio alongside Draughtsman and Specialist Researchers and often produce their drawings on a computer using Painter or Photoshop software. After approval by the Production Designer, the drawings are presented to the Producer, Director and Visual Effects Co-ordinator.

Concept Artists must produce illustrations that are striking but also accurate and clear. They work on illustrations throughout the shoot and may often be required to change and adapt their original ideas as filming progresses.

They may also be involved in the development process, producing a series of illustrations that help to sell the film to potential Financiers and/or Distributors. Concept Artists work on a freelance basis. Their role is highly specialized and there is a limited demand for this work.

By nature of the work, a concept artist is afforded a great deal of creative freedom. However, you should understand that your responsibility is to depict the ideas of others. How much latitude you have to explore each design in the creation of concept art will depend on whom you are working for, thus it is important to quickly adapt to the methods of each designer separately. To pursue a career in this field, take any entry-level position within the art department. Consider looking for roles as an assistant or apprentice; union productions can offer structured internships to those interested in learning the trade of production art design. Roles in the art department are available to freelancers or to permanent employees of a scenic studio, visual effects house, or a similar business. To present yourself to potential employers, you must compile a polished portfolio of your work. The portfolio should demonstrate your command of artistic technique and numerous styles, as well as your own artistic flair.

Sources, References & Credits: Google, Wikipedia, Wikihow, WikiBooks, Pinterest, IMDB, Linked In, Indie Wire, Film Making Stuff, Hiive, Film Daily, New York Film Academy, The Balance, The Numbers, Film Maker, TV Guide Magazine, Media Match, Quora, Creative Skill Set, Investopedia, Variety, No Film School, Daily Variety, The Film Agency, Best Sample Resume, How Stuff Works, Career Trend, Producer's Code of Credits, Truity, Production Hub, Producers Guild of America, Film Connection, Variety, Wolf Crow, Get In Media, Production Beast, Film Sketchr, Stan Winston, https://www.stanwinstonschool.com/

THIS ARTICLE IS FOR INFORMATIONAL PURPOSES ONLY. THE INFORMATION IS PROVIDED "AS IS" AND BRUCE BISBEY MAKES NO EXPRESS OR IMPLIED REPRESENTATIONS OR WARRANTIES, INCLUDING WARRANTIES OF PERFORMANCE, MERCHANTABILITY, AND FITNESS FOR A PARTICULAR PURPOSE, REGARDING THIS INFORMATION. BRUCE BISBEY DOES NOT GUARANTEE THE COMPLETENESS, ACCURACY OR TIMELINESS OF THIS INFORMATION. YOUR USE OF THIS INFORMATION IS AT YOUR OWN RISK. YOU ASSUME FULL RESPONSIBILITY AND RISK OF LOSS RESULTING FROM THE USE OF THIS INFORMATION. BRUCE BISBEY WILL NOT BE LIABLE FOR ANY DIRECT, SPECIAL, INDIRECT, INCIDENTAL, CONSEQUENTIAL OR PUNITIVE DAMAGES OR ANY OTHER DAMAGES WHATSOEVER, WHETHER IN AN ACTION BASED UPON A STATUTE, CONTRACT, TORT (INCLUDING, WITHOUT LIMITATION NEGLIGENCE) OR OTHERWISE, RELATING TO THE USE OF THIS INFORMATION.

Predator Concept Art by Stan Winston / Photo Credit: Film Sketchr - Stan Winston

WHAT DOES A COMPOSITOR DO? (In the Entertainment industry. What Does a Compositor Do?)

3d model blending CGI / Photo Credit: Quora

WHAT DOES A COMPOSITOR DO? (In the Entertainment industry. What Does a Compositor Do?)

Bruce Bisbey…please follow me at: https://dumbdogproductionsllc.blogspot.com or https://www.facebook.com/DumbDogProductionsLLC/ thank you.

What Does a Compositor Do?

The world of CG relies on the wizardry of compositors, who work in most areas of animation and post-production and are responsible for creating the seamlessly integrated combination of live action, computer graphics, and visual effects for film and video. Compositors work at the end of the production process to join the creative efforts of the team into a cohesive and seamless final product.

They are responsible for constructing the final image by combining layers of previously created material. Although it is primarily a 2D role within the 3D world of CGI and VFX (Visual Effects), Compositors need a thorough understanding of the CG process combined with relevant artistic skills.

Duties

Compositors really do it all, so it’s crucial that they have an intimate knowledge of the CG process from start to finish, and considerable artistic skills to boot. Working at the end of the production process means that they receive materials from other parts of the pipeline, including rendered computer animation, graphics, special effects, live action footage, 2-D animation, and static background plates, just to name a few elements that compositors commonly deal with. The job of the compositor is to see that all these elements are united in a way that maintains a similar style and continuity for the final image. Compositors achieve this continuity by working closely with other members of the team to make sure that lighting is perfect, color levels and blacks match while shadows are convincing and blended, grain is added where appropriate, motion blur is added if needed, mattes are created if necessary, and rotoscoping is completed. Compositors work closely with lighting technical directors, rotoscope artists, and render wranglers to ensure that the project continues unhindered through the pipeline until the final fixes are performed. Compositors need considerable knowledge of many types of software, and should be a combination digital wizard, artistic genius, and relentless perfectionist comfortable with taking orders, giving orders, and coordinating team efforts into a polished finished product.

Skills & Education

A career as a compositor is not likely to fall into your lap; a common way to get started is with a degree from an accredited institution in arts or design, such as painting, photography, drawing, illustration, design, or computer animation. Compositors will immediately need extensive knowledge of the latest compositing software such as Shake and After Effects, as well as proprietary software and programs like Photoshop, Maya, Combustion, Inferno, Flame, Amino, Opus, and other software common to the 2-D and 3-D animation processes. Artistic skills are also necessary—the elements of composition, lighting and shadow, and color. Because compositing is done in a team environment, compositors need great communication skills along with a keen eye for detail and a commitment to hard work. Compositors must also be able to work with minimal supervision and be flexible when changes have to be made. Compositors usually earn their position after years of working in other areas of the animation process, and an expansive knowledge of this process will be the compositor’s most important asset.

What to Expect

Compositing is the combining of visual elements from separate sources into single images, often to create the illusion that all those elements are parts of the same scene. Live-action shooting for compositing is variously called "chroma key", "blue screen", "green screen" and other names.

All compositing involves the replacement of selected parts of an image with other material, usually, but not always, from another image. In the digital method of compositing, software commands designate a narrowly defined color as the part of an image to be replaced. Then the software replaces every pixel within the designated color range with a pixel from another image, aligned to appear as part of the original. For example, one could record a television weather presenter positioned in front of a plain blue or green background, while compositing software replaces only the designated blue or green color with weather maps.

You can expect to find a healthy and competitive job market. A show reel will be necessary just to get in the door; and references and experience sometimes help just as much as academic training. Compositors usually attain their position after years in the department as rotoscope artists or render wranglers, and if you show initiative and talent, can often work your way up the ladder to become a sequence supervisor, compositing supervisor, or even VFX supervisor. You should expect years of hard work to get there, which will give you time to harness the artistic, technical, decision-making, and problem-solving skills that will be used every day on the job.

Sources, References & Credits: Google, Wikipedia, Wikihow, WikiBooks, Pinterest, IMDB, Linked In, Indie Wire, Film Making Stuff, Hiive, Film Daily, New York Film Academy, The Balance, The Numbers, Film Maker, TV Guide Magazine, Media Match, Quora, Creative Skill Set, Investopedia, Variety, No Film School, Daily Variety, The Film Agency, Best Sample Resume, How Stuff Works, Career Trend, Producer's Code of Credits, Truity, Production Hub, Producers Guild of America, Film Connection, Variety, Wolf Crow, Get In Media, Production Beast

THIS ARTICLE IS FOR INFORMATIONAL PURPOSES ONLY. THE INFORMATION IS PROVIDED "AS IS" AND BRUCE BISBEY MAKES NO EXPRESS OR IMPLIED REPRESENTATIONS OR WARRANTIES, INCLUDING WARRANTIES OF PERFORMANCE, MERCHANTABILITY, AND FITNESS FOR A PARTICULAR PURPOSE, REGARDING THIS INFORMATION. BRUCE BISBEY DOES NOT GUARANTEE THE COMPLETENESS, ACCURACY OR TIMELINESS OF THIS INFORMATION. YOUR USE OF THIS INFORMATION IS AT YOUR OWN RISK. YOU ASSUME FULL RESPONSIBILITY AND RISK OF LOSS RESULTING FROM THE USE OF THIS INFORMATION. BRUCE BISBEY WILL NOT BE LIABLE FOR ANY DIRECT, SPECIAL, INDIRECT, INCIDENTAL, CONSEQUENTIAL OR PUNITIVE DAMAGES OR ANY OTHER DAMAGES WHATSOEVER, WHETHER IN AN ACTION BASED UPON A STATUTE, CONTRACT, TORT (INCLUDING, WITHOUT LIMITATION NEGLIGENCE) OR OTHERWISE, RELATING TO THE USE OF THIS INFORMATION.

3d model blending CGI / Photo Credit: Quora

WHAT DOES A COMPOSER DO? (In the Entertainment industry. What Does a Composer Do?)

Black Beauty Score / Photo Credit: Oingo Boingo

WHAT DOES A COMPOSER DO? (In the Entertainment industry. What Does a Composer Do?)

Bruce Bisbey…please follow me at: https://dumbdogproductionsllc.blogspot.com or https://www.facebook.com/DumbDogProductionsLLC/ thank you.

What Does a Composer Do?

Obsession is a good beginning. Composers must be infatuated with every note: the pitch, the subtle undulations, the magnificent crescendos. These artists do not write songs, they craft aural experiences that persuade emotion. When combined with images on the screen, the composer’s efforts trigger audience responses of fear, sorrow, elation, and pride.

Duties

Composing is a solitary pursuit; the vast majority of the artist’s work is performed alone in a home studio, at the piano or computer screen. The process is part passionate experimentation and part frustrating torture, as these individuals are responsible not only to their muse but to the whims of the film’s director and/or producer. Like writers, composers’ labor over single stanzas through dozens of iterations until the notation on the page reflects the symphony in their head. When this person is commissioned, he or she may be given some basis of inspiration to draw from ahead of time—a script, film or video footage, or storyboards—but often the composer is the last on board and works to a finished, edited film. From this material and collaboration with the director and producer, the composer cultivates a sense of time, place, action, and emotion, which must be reflected and translated through the score. The time allotted to write the score, which may include dozens of individual pieces of music called cues, varies by project and genre. Budget constraints will determine whether the score is purely synthesized or played by an 80-piece orchestra.

When the master themes are complete, the composer enlists the assistance of an orchestrator to transpose individual instrumental parts for performance. Once music is ready to be recorded, the composer works with the music contractor to hire the appropriate musicians, then leads the orchestra in several takes of the performance on a scoring stage. Edited scenes of the film or video are displayed on a large screen for playback and the music is timed to the images. Composers are aided by a click track and must pay attention to time code documentation to ensure that the violins are hitting the high note and timpani resonates in perfect step with the climax on screen.

Skills & Education

Composers usually have an extensive education in music theory, composition, and performance; a bachelor’s degree is valuable, but an MFA is better. It is expected that these artists are proficient in playing at least one instrument, usually piano. Most degree programs designed for future composers will have components relating to orchestral conducting, writing for voice, tonal harmony, scoring, and a thorough study of music history. Also helpful are courses that focus on recording, composition software, and music business. It is highly recommended that you become familiar with the laws concerning copyright, licensing, and the role of music publishers. Above all, a composer has an inherent talent, distinct creative voice, and well-tuned ear for melody.

What to Expect

The standard path toward becoming a full-fledged composer was to apprentice under a professional to learn the trade techniques; trainee compose cues for their mentor-employer (usually for television shows) which are credited to the more established composer. However, the Society of Composers and Lyricists has instituted an alternative apprentice program to grow the talents and experience of associate members. Video games are a new source of career opportunities for composers; as games become more cinematic and elaborate, some developers have begun hiring composers to create original accompaniment to the game. Many composers have evolved into the role through work as a copyist, arranger, or orchestrator. To properly manage your career and ensure that your rights as an artist are protected, composers are advised to secure agency representation. Membership with a performing rights organization like BMI is a must in order to receive performance royalties when the show or movie appears on television. Most, if not all, film scores are written as work for hire—the composer receives a one-time fee for the work but does not own the publishing rights, which go to the studio. Maintain a friendly relationship with a relations exec at your performing rights organization, and you’ll have a valuable resource for thorny questions of ownership. Business aside, don’t neglect your creativity nurture it with travel and curiosity for all forms of music.

A film score (also sometimes called background score, background music, film soundtrack, film music, or incidental music) is original music written specifically to accompany a film. The score forms part of the film's soundtrack, which also usually includes pre-existing music, dialogue and sound effects, and comprises a number of orchestral, instrumental, or choral pieces called cues, which are timed to begin and end at specific points during the film in order to enhance the dramatic narrative and the emotional impact of the scene in question. Scores are written by one or more composers, under the guidance of, or in collaboration with, the film's director or producer and are then usually performed by an ensemble of musicians – most often comprising an orchestra or band, instrumental soloists, and choir or vocalists – and recorded by a sound engineer.

Film scores encompass an enormous variety of styles of music, depending on the nature of the films they accompany. The majority of scores are orchestral works rooted in Western classical music, but many scores are also influenced by jazz, rock, pop, blues, new-age and ambient music, and a wide range of ethnic and world music styles. Since the 1950s, a growing number of scores have also included electronic elements as part of the score, and many scores written today feature a hybrid of orchestral and electronic instruments.

Since the invention of digital technology and audio sampling, many modern films have been able to rely on digital samples to imitate the sound of live instruments, and many scores are created and performed wholly by the composers themselves, by using sophisticated music composition software.

Sources, References & Credits: Google, Wikipedia, Wikihow, WikiBooks, Pinterest, IMDB, Linked In, Indie Wire, Film Making Stuff, Hiive, Film Daily, New York Film Academy, The Balance, The Numbers, Film Maker, TV Guide Magazine, Media Match, Quora, Creative Skill Set, Investopedia, Variety, No Film School, Daily Variety, The Film Agency, Best Sample Resume, How Stuff Works, Career Trend, Producer's Code of Credits, Truity, Production Hub, Producers Guild of America, Film Connection, Variety, Wolf Crow, Get In Media, Production Beast

THIS ARTICLE IS FOR INFORMATIONAL PURPOSES ONLY. THE INFORMATION IS PROVIDED "AS IS" AND BRUCE BISBEY MAKES NO EXPRESS OR IMPLIED REPRESENTATIONS OR WARRANTIES, INCLUDING WARRANTIES OF PERFORMANCE, MERCHANTABILITY, AND FITNESS FOR A PARTICULAR PURPOSE, REGARDING THIS INFORMATION. BRUCE BISBEY DOES NOT GUARANTEE THE COMPLETENESS, ACCURACY OR TIMELINESS OF THIS INFORMATION. YOUR USE OF THIS INFORMATION IS AT YOUR OWN RISK. YOU ASSUME FULL RESPONSIBILITY AND RISK OF LOSS RESULTING FROM THE USE OF THIS INFORMATION. BRUCE BISBEY WILL NOT BE LIABLE FOR ANY DIRECT, SPECIAL, INDIRECT, INCIDENTAL, CONSEQUENTIAL OR PUNITIVE DAMAGES OR ANY OTHER DAMAGES WHATSOEVER, WHETHER IN AN ACTION BASED UPON A STATUTE, CONTRACT, TORT (INCLUDING, WITHOUT LIMITATION NEGLIGENCE) OR OTHERWISE, RELATING TO THE USE OF THIS INFORMATION.

Black Beauty Score / Photo Credit: Oingo Boingo

WHAT DOES A CATERER DO? (In the Entertainment industry. What Does a Caterer Do?)

Film Caterers / Photo Credit: Reel Deal Caterers

WHAT DOES A CATERER DO? (In the Entertainment industry. What Does a Caterer Do?)

Bruce Bisbey…please follow me at: https://dumbdogproductionsllc.blogspot.com or https://www.facebook.com/DumbDogProductionsLLC/ thank you.

What Does a Caterer Do?

Napoleon once said that an army marches on its stomach; as anyone in the film industry knows, this is also true for the hundreds of people it takes to make a movie. Caterers are not just useful for providing massive quantities of delicious food at corporate events and weddings, but are also pivotal to the movie-making process, feeding everyone on the film set from the actors to the grips and all in between.

Duties

The duties of a caterer seem pretty straightforward: You cook some food and serve it to people. While this is true, catering requires a great deal more. Catering is different than running a restaurant in that caterers bring the food to the location that the customer requires, which often requires the use of large mobile kitchens and a staff of chefs and servers. Caterers usually begin by putting together a proposal for the producers, which goes over variables like the date and length of the shoot, the number of people to feed, and menu ideas. From this the caterer will be able to come up with a final budget for food and, equipment, and staff. On larger films, there may be full-service catering, which includes setting up the décor and layout, from linens and flatware to flowers, for added ambience; on smaller films, a caterer who can make something (delicious) out of nothing is a godsend. Once the details are set, the caterer can use any number of CAD-based software programs to help plan his or her attack. Meticulous planning and a very detailed schedule is crucial in order to meet the tight deadlines and unique demands of catering a movie set.

Once equipment and mobile kitchen are secured, it is time to set up, cook and serve. Feeding a crew on a movie set is a task that often begins before sunrise and lasts until sunset. Crew call can be as early as 5 a.m., with cooks arriving early enough to prepare the food. Catering breakfast usually takes a few hours and can include anything from Belgian waffles and pancakes to custom omelets, fruits, cereals, pastries, and gallons of strong coffee. After breakfast, the few hours until lunch give the catering staff a little time to break down the breakfast set-up, clean up, and start preparing lunch. Union rules require a large meal six hours after the crew arrives, and timeliness is crucial to the caterer. While meals are sometimes catered, the buffet layout is most common. A selection of entrees will be presented, and enough food to feed anywhere from a handful to several hundred crew members must be available. Lunch is the caterer’s moment to shine, as on movie sets it is considered the highlight of the day for the cast and the crew.

Skills & Education

Caterers almost always have experience in restaurants and other dining facilities before going into catering. Many caterers also obtain degrees from culinary institutes or technical schools. Business education is also a plus, as many of the planning, proposal, and bidding activities require at least a cursory knowledge of costs, expenses, staff management, and marketing. A detailed résumé that shows a wide range of culinary skills and experience will gain entrance into a catering company, though a beginning caterer may have to start out at a smaller company to start. A financial investment is required—equipment and serve ware can be rented, but owning as much of your own rig as possible adds to profits. Some caterers are also licensed commercial drivers who can handle the big trailers that carry mobile kitchens, and in some states they must also be Teamsters. Mechanical skills are considered a plus, as there are sometimes kitchen equipment repairs that must be made on the spot. Caterers must also be sociable and easy to get along with, not to mention clean, as few people will hire a catering staff filled with unhygienic misanthropes. Finally, the single most important skill that any caterer can possess is the ability to cook a large quantity of tasty food in a minimal amount of time.

What to Expect

You can expect to be busy and tired. Caterers must be comfortable working in cramped and hot mobile kitchens while remaining congenial to cast and crew. You must be able to handle multiple food sensitivities and dietary restrictions with grace and flair. Shoots don’t always happen within the handy confines of a studio stage; you may find yourself stirring soup on a frozen tundra or flipping burgers at the beach. (Try not to get sand in the potato salad.) Cleanup of the serving station, dishes, and mobile kitchen, as well as the requisite paperwork, completes the 14-to-16-hour day for the caterer, then it’s time to restock for tomorrow’s meals. In the instance of a night shoot, you may be serving waffles at midnight and sleeping in the truck.

Sources, References & Credits: Google, Wikipedia, Wikihow, WikiBooks, Pinterest, IMDB, Linked In, Indie Wire, Film Making Stuff, Hiive, Film Daily, New York Film Academy, The Balance, The Numbers, Film Maker, TV Guide Magazine, Media Match, Quora, Creative Skill Set, Investopedia, Variety, No Film School, Daily Variety, The Film Agency, Best Sample Resume, How Stuff Works, Career Trend, Producer's Code of Credits, Truity, Production Hub, Producers Guild of America, Film Connection, Variety, Wolf Crow, Get In Media, Production Beast

THIS ARTICLE IS FOR INFORMATIONAL PURPOSES ONLY. THE INFORMATION IS PROVIDED "AS IS" AND BRUCE BISBEY MAKES NO EXPRESS OR IMPLIED REPRESENTATIONS OR WARRANTIES, INCLUDING WARRANTIES OF PERFORMANCE, MERCHANTABILITY, AND FITNESS FOR A PARTICULAR PURPOSE, REGARDING THIS INFORMATION. BRUCE BISBEY DOES NOT GUARANTEE THE COMPLETENESS, ACCURACY OR TIMELINESS OF THIS INFORMATION. YOUR USE OF THIS INFORMATION IS AT YOUR OWN RISK. YOU ASSUME FULL RESPONSIBILITY AND RISK OF LOSS RESULTING FROM THE USE OF THIS INFORMATION. BRUCE BISBEY WILL NOT BE LIABLE FOR ANY DIRECT, SPECIAL, INDIRECT, INCIDENTAL, CONSEQUENTIAL OR PUNITIVE DAMAGES OR ANY OTHER DAMAGES WHATSOEVER, WHETHER IN AN ACTION BASED UPON A STATUTE, CONTRACT, TORT (INCLUDING, WITHOUT LIMITATION NEGLIGENCE) OR OTHERWISE, RELATING TO THE USE OF THIS INFORMATION.

Film Caterers / Photo Credit: Reel Deal Caterers

WHAT DOES A CARPENTERS ASSISTANT DO? (In the Entertainment industry. What Does a Carpenters Assistant Do?)

Movie Set Construction / Photo Credit: YouTube - Maxes Default - Alex Pitt Photography

WHAT DOES A CARPENTERS ASSISTANT DO? (In the Entertainment industry. What Does a Carpenters Assistant Do?)

Bruce Bisbey…please follow me at: https://dumbdogproductionsllc.blogspot.com or https://www.facebook.com/DumbDogProductionsLLC/ thank you.

What Does a Carpenters Assistant Do?

This entry-level position in film, television, and live production works within the scenic or construction department and is vital to the efficient operation of the scene shop and to building of sets during pre-production.

Duties

The carpenter’s assistant answers directly to the lead carpenter and construction foreman, and is under the supervision of the construction coordinator, the head of the department. The responsibilities of the assistant include moving and storing of construction materials within the shop or on location and the general cleanliness of the facility. Typical tasks may include sweeping the shop, cleaning tools, and generally ensuring a safe working environment by keeping workspaces clear of obstructions or a buildup of sawdust that may pose a fire hazard. This person will also perform additional tasks as delegated by carpenters or other department crew. He or she is to adhere to all procedures established by the department head and may be required to provide a minimum of personal protection equipment and hand tools while on the job site.

To do this role, you will need to: 

• Have First-Rate Craft Skills in Carpentry and Joinery…
• Provide Creative Input during the Construction of Film Sets and Props…
• Be Aware of the Creative Shortcuts that can be used to Build Very Short-Term, Fake Constructions as cheaply, but as safely, as possible…
• Be Literate and Numerate…
• Understand Complex Drawings, Specifications and Technical Literature…
• Have Strong Mathematical Skills to Calculate Angles and Dimensions…
• Be a Team Players…
• Have Physical Strength and Stamina…
• Have a Good Sense of Balance…
• Be Comfortable Working at Heights…
• Know About Health and Safety… 

Skills & Education

Employment as a carpenter’s assistant requires only a high school diploma, but advancement within the scenic department will require an advanced education. Degrees in film and television production or theatrical design with an emphasis on scenic construction are recommended, though equivalent professional experience will suffice. Training in stagecraft is most important to this career field and involves learning the construction techniques commonly used in entertainment production as well as the use of shop tools and construction materials. Additional courses in art history, drawing, sculpting, and computer drafting are valuable.

What to Expect

The role of the carpenter’s assistant may be freelance and hired during pre-production, or this person can be employed full-time at a scenic shop that caters to film, television, and live productions. This is not a glamorous job, but it is the standard entry-level gig for those looking to learn the trade of stagecraft and advance to the role of scenic carpenter. Consider this an apprenticeship that allows you the opportunity to seek mentorship under industry veterans in your chosen craft. Dedication and hard work displayed in the menial tasks of the assistant will prove to your employer that you have the necessary passion and drive to succeed at the next level on the crew. When you’re on the job, never complain; those whom you work for expect you to treat the job as a privilege and appreciate every trashcan you empty. It is all part of paying your dues. Never wait to be asked to help. The more proactive you are and the less supervision you require, the more trusted you would be to take on more responsibility.

Sources, References & Credits: Google, Wikipedia, Wikihow, WikiBooks, Pinterest, IMDB, Linked In, Indie Wire, Film Making Stuff, Hiive, Film Daily, New York Film Academy, The Balance, The Numbers, Film Maker, TV Guide Magazine, Media Match, Quora, Creative Skill Set, Investopedia, Variety, No Film School, Daily Variety, The Film Agency, Best Sample Resume, How Stuff Works, Career Trend, Producer's Code of Credits, Truity, Production Hub, Producers Guild of America, Film Connection, Variety, Wolf Crow, Get In Media, Production Beast

THIS ARTICLE IS FOR INFORMATIONAL PURPOSES ONLY. THE INFORMATION IS PROVIDED "AS IS" AND BRUCE BISBEY MAKES NO EXPRESS OR IMPLIED REPRESENTATIONS OR WARRANTIES, INCLUDING WARRANTIES OF PERFORMANCE, MERCHANTABILITY, AND FITNESS FOR A PARTICULAR PURPOSE, REGARDING THIS INFORMATION. BRUCE BISBEY DOES NOT GUARANTEE THE COMPLETENESS, ACCURACY OR TIMELINESS OF THIS INFORMATION. YOUR USE OF THIS INFORMATION IS AT YOUR OWN RISK. YOU ASSUME FULL RESPONSIBILITY AND RISK OF LOSS RESULTING FROM THE USE OF THIS INFORMATION. BRUCE BISBEY WILL NOT BE LIABLE FOR ANY DIRECT, SPECIAL, INDIRECT, INCIDENTAL, CONSEQUENTIAL OR PUNITIVE DAMAGES OR ANY OTHER DAMAGES WHATSOEVER, WHETHER IN AN ACTION BASED UPON A STATUTE, CONTRACT, TORT (INCLUDING, WITHOUT LIMITATION NEGLIGENCE) OR OTHERWISE, RELATING TO THE USE OF THIS INFORMATION.

Movie Set Construction / Photo Credit: YouTube - Maxes Default - Alex Pitt Photography

WHAT DOES A CAMERA OPERATOR DO? (In the Entertainment industry. What Does a Camera Operator Do?)

Camera Operator Qualifications / Photo Credits: Production Beast

WHAT DOES A CAMERA OPERATOR DO? (In the Entertainment industry. What Does a Camera Operator Do?)

Bruce Bisbey…please follow me at: https://dumbdogproductionsllc.blogspot.com or https://www.facebook.com/DumbDogProductionsLLC/ thank you.

What Does a Camera Operator Do?

A camera operator, sometimes informally called a cameraman, is a professional operator of a film or video camera. In filmmaking, the person designing the lighting is the cinematographer or director of photography, who is also informally called a "cameraman" though it is a different job. A camera operator in a video production may be known as a television camera operator, video camera operator, or videographer, depending on the context and technology involved, usually operating a professional video camera. The camera operator is responsible for physically operating the camera and maintaining composition and camera angles throughout a given scene or shot.

The camera operator works under the supervision of the director of photography (cinematographer) and is tasked with ensuring that the camera gets each shot just as the DP and director have instructed. Depending on the size and budget of a production, there may be several camera operators working in tandem.

Duties

In preparation for a scene, the camera operator blocks the set with the director of photography—the cameras are positioned, grips lay dolly track and set up jibs, and electricians place the lights. At this point, the director and DP confer on how to capture the shot. All cameras perform a run-through to plan movements and angles. The operators are aided by camera assistants to pull focus, load the film stock, change filters, and maintain all accessories. As the only pair of eyes that sees what the camera is capturing, the operator is responsible for adjusting aperture and making certain that the vision of the DP and director is translated to the film or video. It is this person’s responsibility to call for another take if the first was not up to par technically.

During the take, the camera operator looks through the viewfinder and relies on a team of technicians to keep her or him on track: grips push the dolly, operate the crane, and tow the cables. The operator may be asked to repeat takes several times if the director is not pleased with any aspect of the performance. When she or he is satisfied with the takes that have been collected, the camera department wraps on that scene and starts the process all over again. Camera operators may work on the first (or primary) unit, with the director and lead cast, or on one of the second units, who are typically responsible for picking up extra coverage, close-ups of objects for insertion in editing, establishing landscape shots, or international locations. In additional to principal photography, these technicians may be called upon to perform camera tests in preproduction and/or reshoots in post.

Skills & Education

Extensive training and experience in the operation of film and video cameras and accessories is required; a college degree in film and television production is the most comprehensive source for this education. Camera operators must understand the functions of both digital and film cameras, as well as lighting, color theory, and the development process. Framing a shot using light and color is an art that requires a creative and trained eye. Classes in still photography and fine art are helpful.

What to Expect

Practice is crucial; you must be as confident on a handheld as you are with a tripod. Steadicam operators are specialists, and the role is considered a separate position. Training in aerial photography, underwater filming, and other specialties will make you a valuable commodity, able to demand a higher salary. You must be prepared for any and all environments; today the set may be in an air-conditioned soundstage, but tomorrow you might be traipsing through the mud and fighting off insects the size of your fist. To get the gig you will have to put in time as a camera assistant. Accomplished camera operators can move up to larger productions, and may find an opportunity to graduate to the role of the director of photography. These technicians can become members of the International Alliance of Theatrical Stage Employees, which does offer a limited-access trainee program.

Sources, References & Credits: Google, Wikipedia, Wikihow, WikiBooks, Pinterest, IMDB, Linked In, Indie Wire, Film Making Stuff, Hiive, Film Daily, New York Film Academy, The Balance, The Numbers, Film Maker, TV Guide Magazine, Media Match, Quora, Creative Skill Set, Investopedia, Variety, No Film School, Daily Variety, The Film Agency, Best Sample Resume, How Stuff Works, Career Trend, Producer's Code of Credits, Truity, Production Hub, Producers Guild of America, Film Connection, Variety, Wolf Crow, Get In Media, Production Beast

THIS ARTICLE IS FOR INFORMATIONAL PURPOSES ONLY. THE INFORMATION IS PROVIDED "AS IS" AND BRUCE BISBEY MAKES NO EXPRESS OR IMPLIED REPRESENTATIONS OR WARRANTIES, INCLUDING WARRANTIES OF PERFORMANCE, MERCHANTABILITY, AND FITNESS FOR A PARTICULAR PURPOSE, REGARDING THIS INFORMATION. BRUCE BISBEY DOES NOT GUARANTEE THE COMPLETENESS, ACCURACY OR TIMELINESS OF THIS INFORMATION. YOUR USE OF THIS INFORMATION IS AT YOUR OWN RISK. YOU ASSUME FULL RESPONSIBILITY AND RISK OF LOSS RESULTING FROM THE USE OF THIS INFORMATION. BRUCE BISBEY WILL NOT BE LIABLE FOR ANY DIRECT, SPECIAL, INDIRECT, INCIDENTAL, CONSEQUENTIAL OR PUNITIVE DAMAGES OR ANY OTHER DAMAGES WHATSOEVER, WHETHER IN AN ACTION BASED UPON A STATUTE, CONTRACT, TORT (INCLUDING, WITHOUT LIMITATION NEGLIGENCE) OR OTHERWISE, RELATING TO THE USE OF THIS INFORMATION.

Camera Operator Qualifications / Photo Credits: Production Beast

WHAT DOES A CAMERA ASSISTANT DO? (In the Entertainment industry. What Does a Camera Assistant Do?)

Red Cameras / Photo Credit: Digital FX - Louisiana Camera

WHAT DOES A CAMERA ASSISTANT DO? (In the Entertainment industry. What Does a Camera Assistant Do?)

Bruce Bisbey…please follow me at: https://dumbdogproductionsllc.blogspot.com or https://www.facebook.com/DumbDogProductionsLLC/ thank you.

What Does a Camera Assistant Do?

Camera assistants are the backbone of the camera department on set. These technicians aid camera operators in setting up gear, keep the sensitive equipment in tip-top shape, and trudge over hill and over dale to lug the DP’s Panavision on location.

Duties

The first assistant cameraperson, also known as the focus puller, is primarily responsible for ensuring a sharp picture. He or she works closely with the camera operator (under the direction of the director of photography) to measure the distance between the lens and the subject, and to maintain proper focal distance during camera movements. Tracking shots and crane movements will require the first AC to collaborate with both camera operator and the dolly grip or crane operator to ensure consistent focus. This requires an individual who has a keen eye and a good judgment of distance, and is quick on his feet. Any future focus puller would do well to study Alfred Hitchcock’s 1948 film, Rope. The feature is comprised entirely of long, uncut segments, including some of the most impressive tracking shots seen in a movie at the time. When not participating in photography, the first AC is also tasked with cleaning and maintaining lenses, and threading the camera with film. The full digital conversion has not yet overtaken Hollywood—35mm is still the standard.

Tasked with loading the film magazine and performing the scene slate with the clapperboard is the second assistant cameraperson (second AC). Sometimes dubbed the clapper loader, this person also controls the film inventory, completes camera reports, and will spike an actor’s mark when necessary. He or she is typically the only person permitted to have contact with the raw film and undeveloped negative. The second AC takes great care to maintain proper storage conditions of all film (both before and after photography) to ensure the expensive inventory and hours of shooting are not lost.

Skills & Education

Camera assistants must be trained in the proper setup and maintenance of camera equipment, handling of film, and techniques of photography. A college degree in film and television production is not required, but highly recommended.  The International Associate of Theatrical Stage Employees (IATSE) also provides apprenticeship programs on a selective basis. Camera assistants must understand concepts of light, color, and exposure; classes or equivalent experience in still photography are helpful. Training in the use of digital and high definition cameras is also valuable.

What to Expect

Work in the camera department starts as an IATSE trainee, or as a camera department intern. Advancement to the assistant roles and eventually gigs as a camera operator is based on experience and your proven ability through on-the-job training. Camera assistants must be obsessively meticulous in the care and maintenance of the equipment; you may be faced with shooting in sand, cold, rain, and mud, but the environment cannot be allowed to affect the proper operation of the gear. Without a clean, running camera production grinds to a halt. You are expected to be attentive to the needs of the operator and DP, as well as to anticipate problems and quickly act to resolve them before snags impede photography. If you have a strong work ethic, are reliable, and carry yourself with a high degree of professionalism, you will be an asset to any crew.

Sources, References & Credits: Google, Wikipedia, Wikihow, WikiBooks, Pinterest, IMDB, Linked In, Indie Wire, Film Making Stuff, Hiive, Film Daily, New York Film Academy, The Balance, The Numbers, Film Maker, TV Guide Magazine, Media Match, Quora, Creative Skill Set, Investopedia, Variety, No Film School, Daily Variety, The Film Agency, Best Sample Resume, How Stuff Works, Career Trend, Producer's Code of Credits, Truity, Production Hub, Producers Guild of America, Film Connection, Variety, Wolf Crow, Get In Media,

THIS ARTICLE IS FOR INFORMATIONAL PURPOSES ONLY. THE INFORMATION IS PROVIDED "AS IS" AND BRUCE BISBEY MAKES NO EXPRESS OR IMPLIED REPRESENTATIONS OR WARRANTIES, INCLUDING WARRANTIES OF PERFORMANCE, MERCHANTABILITY, AND FITNESS FOR A PARTICULAR PURPOSE, REGARDING THIS INFORMATION. BRUCE BISBEY DOES NOT GUARANTEE THE COMPLETENESS, ACCURACY OR TIMELINESS OF THIS INFORMATION. YOUR USE OF THIS INFORMATION IS AT YOUR OWN RISK. YOU ASSUME FULL RESPONSIBILITY AND RISK OF LOSS RESULTING FROM THE USE OF THIS INFORMATION. BRUCE BISBEY WILL NOT BE LIABLE FOR ANY DIRECT, SPECIAL, INDIRECT, INCIDENTAL, CONSEQUENTIAL OR PUNITIVE DAMAGES OR ANY OTHER DAMAGES WHATSOEVER, WHETHER IN AN ACTION BASED UPON A STATUTE, CONTRACT, TORT (INCLUDING, WITHOUT LIMITATION NEGLIGENCE) OR OTHERWISE, RELATING TO THE USE OF THIS INFORMATION.

Red Cameras / Photo Credit: Digital FX - Louisiana Camera