Dynamics of a Working Camera Department with Greg Irwin, SOC

Gregory Irwin is an extremely experienced A Camera First AC who
first got into the business 44 years ago. He received a 2016
Society of Camera Operators Lifetime Achievement Award for
Outstanding Contributions as Camera Technician. His most recent
project is the Joker sequel Joker: Folie à Deux coming soon. Greg
frequently gives talks on the importance of character and
credibility in the camera department. The camera department is in a
leadership role on any production. There's always going to be
challenges on set, but it's important to remember that if the
camera department seems like they're panicking, it affects the rest
of the production. A good camera department is always helpful, no
matter what department needs it. Never be rude or show panic, even
when things aren't going to plan. Greg says, “I want my team to
know everything at all times, and I want them to be better than me.
If I can develop a young camera person into a rock solid, good
human being as well as a good camera technician then I've done my
job.” Greg discusses: Character and credibility in the camera
department-remembering you are in a leadership role Taking a
business approach to the camera department Interacting with the
director, cinematographer, producers and showrunners How to hire
others in the camera department- be sure to vet your camera crew
before hiring them Be a “one minute manager”- choose people you
don't have to micromanage Handling the first phone calls with the
filmmakers and producers: save talk about rates, money, deals until
about the 4th phone call so you can get to know the person who
you're negotiating with Generally talk rates/business aspects for
your camera team as well Prep for the camera prep day: prep should
already be done ahead, including what you need for your camera
package Prep and budget: build everything you need for prep based
on meetings with the filmmakers & DP, timestamp prep lists to
keep track of everything. By draft 10, you should be clear on
what's needed and camera budget should be very clear at that point
Look the part- better to dress like a professional Be organized and
don't have a sense of entitlement How to get noticed and move up in
the camera department Find Greg Irwin:
https://www.imdb.com/name/nm0410389/ Sponsored by Hot Rod Cameras
www.hotrodcameras.com The Cinematography Podcast website:
www.camnoir.com Facebook: @cinepod Instagram: @thecinepod Twitter:
@ShortEndz