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Tell us more about your current job, Phil...
I am currently working as a freelance lighting cameraman for Thatcham, the automotive research and technology centre where I am involved in high-speed (1000 fps) photography for safety test videos, crash impact tests and corporate videos. My other clients include BBC, ITV, Channel 4 and 5 and Pro-TV based in Romania.
How did you get started in the industry?
My first job in the industry was as a floor runner on a film set. My boss was the Assistant Director and my role involved doing just about anything that needed doing! This could be dashing off to the nearest shop to buy a pen through to recruiting extras for a scene in the film. It's a real foot-in-the-door job - you can learn a lot and you are in the right place to start making contacts.
Have you done any training?
Yes, after I was a runner I decided to go to film school to learn more. I went to Arts International near York and did a Production Operations course. I chose this course as it gave me good insight into different departments involved on the technical side of a production.
What did you do when you finished film school?
I went freelance and started work as a camera assistant. Some people come out of film school thinking they are ready to start at director level, but I think being an assistant to someone with experience is a really good way to learn the business. And you can't beat the real hands-on experience and you learn more of the 'tricks of the trade'!
What does your work involve?
Firstly, I meet with the Director to discuss what they want to achieve. Together, the Director and Cameraman control the visual approach to the project and my input is crucial in deciding where, when and what facilities will be required to make it actually happen. I will also work closely with the Soundman in both the planning and shooting stages.
What do you like most about your work?
The creativity - making something out of nothing gives me a great sense of satisfaction. It's also interesting and challenging adapting the physical and technical environments you are in and turning them in to a creative solution.
What do you like least about your work?
Working with a director who is unsure what they want can be hard. You end up shooting anything and everything in the hope of getting the right shot and this can go on for hours. Even in this situation though I try to be open and supportive as it really is a team effort.
What advice would you give to someone starting out?
Be honest and be prepared to stretch yourself. If you work hard as a camera assistant you can learn so much and meet the right people. You can use an agent or a diary service to get work, which is useful when starting out as you can start to build up your contacts this way. Above all, be reliable and committed to whatever you do, people will remember you for it and at the end of the day, people want someone they can rely on - even if it's just to make the tea!
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