What It's Like To Be... cover image

What It's Like To Be...

A Camera Operator

Sep 10, 2024
Join Pauline Edwards, an accomplished camera operator, as she dives into the vibrant world of reality TV and film production. She shares the unique challenges of framing scenes and maintaining emotional continuity, especially under the pressure of demanding directors. Discover what a 'swingle' is and hear about her journey navigating the industry as a female and Black operator. With personal anecdotes, Pauline highlights the camaraderie among camera operators and the technical artistry required to capture spontaneous moments on set.
30:24

Episode guests

Podcast summary created with Snipd AI

Quick takeaways

  • A camera operator's role involves framing visuals precisely while maintaining a balance between technical execution and storytelling immersion.
  • In reality TV, operators must remain adaptable and ready to capture spontaneous moments, enhancing the visual narrative through unpredictability.

Deep dives

The Invisible Art of Camera Operation

A skilled camera operator plays a crucial role in television and film production, often working without drawing attention to themselves. Their primary task is to frame the visuals directed by the director and the director of photography, ensuring that both the necessary elements are included and extraneous details are excluded. This responsibility includes calling out potential issues, such as visible equipment or distractions in the frame, but they need to exercise discretion to avoid interrupting the flow of the scene unnecessarily. A good camera operator blends their work into the storytelling, allowing the audience to focus on the narrative without being distracted by technical execution.

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