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Education / Camera

Second Camera Assistant / 2nd AC

Keep the camera workflow organised between takes.

Progression role

The overview

What does the role do?

The second AC supports the first AC with camera equipment and the records and materials needed for filming.

They may operate the slate, maintain batteries and media arrangements, help with marks and prepare equipment for transport. The exact handling of media and rushes is agreed with the production’s camera and data teams. Accuracy in identifiers and handovers helps connect what was filmed to the correct records.

What might a working day look like?

Preparing for each setup and keeping equipment and recording information organised continues between takes.

Typical responsibilities

  • Support camera preparation, batteries and monitors.
  • Operate slates and maintain camera information as assigned.
  • Follow the agreed media and equipment handover procedures.

Your route in

Getting started

Gain camera trainee experience and learn the department’s procedures before stepping up.

  1. Practise identifiers

    Create a fictional slate and camera report for several takes. Check scene, take, camera and file details against each other.

  2. Learn supervised workflow

    Observe how a camera team prepares a setup, marks positions and hands over media. Do not assume every production uses the same system.

  3. Document your readiness

    Keep examples of tasks you have performed under supervision and ask for feedback on the skills still needed to progress.

Where could it lead?

Second AC work can lead towards first AC or other camera responsibilities with further technical experience.

Try it yourself

A small step into the role.

Create records for two cameras filming the same scene over four takes, including one retake with a changed slate identifier.

Check your work

Check that a person who was not on set could match every record to the right take without guessing.

A London Film Club practice prompt

This is an introduction to UK film and scripted TV, rather than a complete job specification. Grades and responsibilities vary by production.

London Film Club

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