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Camera Trainee

Entry-level camera trainee supporting the 2nd AC/loader team on UK units.

Duties

• Read the call sheet and sides before arriving
• Maintain radio/set etiquette and H&S
• Hand over notes/kit status at wrap
• Assist slating, media runs and kit under supervision
• Learn camera discipline and set etiquette
• Support magazine/media management practice

Reports to

2nd AC / 1st AC mentor

Works with

Camera team; ADs for set etiquette

Career path

Camera Trainee → 2nd AC → 1st AC → Operator

Day to day

Fetch kit; watch media discipline; learn slate protocol; keep carts/cables tidy; shadow 2nd/1st AC; never touch record media without instruction.

Call times

Camera call is frequently earlier than general unit for build and prep. Focus/loader/trainees often pre-call. Check camera call, lunch and estimated wrap on the sheet; split days and nights are common on features.

What to wear

Matte blacks on set; quiet soft soles preferred; weather layers for UK exteriors; personal harness/support kit for Steadicam ops as needed.

Tools & kit

Personal tools as grade requires (AC kits, op tools); production/hire supplies camera package.

Tips

Confirm title, agreement, budget band, prep/wrap and kit fee on the deal memo before accepting. We never invent Bectu figures — check bectu.org.uk ratecards / your branch.

Software

• PDF sides
• Call sheets
• QTAKE / video village tools
• ShotPut Pro / Hedge / Silverstack (DIT workflows)
• Pomfort Livegrade / LUT tools
• Frame.io / PIX for dailies as issued
• ChatGPT for quick lens/DoF notes (verify with DoP)

Related roles

2nd AC (Clapper Loader), 1st AC (Focus Puller)

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