1. What motivates you to succeed as Camera Operator?

Patience and experience give me confidence to move forward either way.

3. Tell me is there such a thing as a typical day?

A day in the studio starts with 'check in' – a briefing covering the jobs I must shoot throughout the day. When I am working on news stories days are completely unpredictable. The news desk tells me where I will be filming – it could be anywhere between the Scottish border and North Yorkshire.

4. Tell me what's the difference between Hardware Compression and Software Compression?

Hardware Compression: Both Capturing Video Signal and Compressing Video Signal are done by DSP chipset integrated on DVR Board. It doesn't need the computer's CPU to do this work. It's low cost of CPU and RAM resources. In this system the computer CPU's task focus on answering network request, streaming the video/audio to network and saving recorded data to local hard disk.

Software Compression: The DVR Board only capture video signal but doesn't compress it, it is the computer CPU and RAM to do this compression work. It's high cost of CPU and RAM resources. In this system the computer CPU and RAM are often overloaded. It is easier to crash than hardware compression system.

5. Do you know when can I use a manual iris lens?

A general rule of thumb is only to use a MI lens in an internal application. This is because you are reliant on the electronic circuitry of the camera compensating for light changes in the scene and this is not able to compensate to the same degree as that of an Auto Iris lens.

6. Tell me what is Video Termination?

This is the end of line resistance of any CCTV system and this should be set to 75 ohm. Should you encounter any double image or ghosting this is more often than not caused by two pieces of equipment in series both having the 75-ohm switch set on. Only the last piece of equipment should be set at 75-ohm.

7. Tell me can I use I/R Lamps with color cameras?

The answer to this is a definitive NO. Color cameras are typically fitted with an IR cut filter and will not allow IR light in excess of 700Nm to pass resulting in the camera performing poorly in these circumstances.

8. What is pC Based Digital Video Surveillance Capture Cards?

PC Based Digital CCTV Surveillance systems are a reasonably new technology in the CCTV Industry. This type of Digital CCTV system works in two stages. You then install the digital cctv surveillance card and software on to your PC. This Software (or program) will allow you to view your Digital CCTV Cameras, search through previously recorded footage, backup footage to CD/DVD, control PTZ Cameras either on the PC system or remotely and much more.

9. Do you know what Are the Job Duties of a Camera Operator?

As a camera operator, you'll manage and operate video equipment on the set of films, motion pictures and television shows. You'll typically use high-tech, expensive cameras that are specifically designed for the entertainment industry, though you might need to provide still images with digital handheld or industrial cameras. You'll often work under the guidance of a photography or film director who organizes your camera work in order to capture a particular scene. Other considerations for the profession include lighting, sound and equipment maintenance.

10. Do you know what Would I Do As a TV Camera Operator?

As a TV camera operator, you record the images seen on television--from news broadcasts, TV series and sporting events to documentaries and commercials. You work with directors and technicians to find the most effective way to frame these images using elements such as lighting, position, lenses and camera movements. You must also be capable of moving their cameras smoothly and steadily. While many TV camera operators are only responsible for shooting video footage, some also edit their own work.

Some TV camera operators are studio operators, which means they work in a television studio and record images with the camera that is in a fixed position. However, in some studios, cameras are mounted on a track so they can be moved while filming. This is very different from news camera operators, who are on the move tracking news events. In this position, you must be prepared for both indoor and outdoor photography and even to edit your own work on the spot so it can be transmitted as live coverage. Since you carry your cameras on your shoulders, the ability to hold the camera steady is especially important.

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11. Tell me do you rent out equipment?

No, we are not giving a rental facility. We ensure that all of our equipment remains in great condition by not renting it out.

12. Please tell me what major challenges and problems did you face at your last position?

Availability of equipment restricted our original intentions. However, I believe gaining the trust from colleagues who appeared in front of the camera was the most testing.

13. Explain me your role as a camera operator?

I operate a TV camera as part of a large production team. I work on programmes ranging from news bulletins to documentaries, music shows and sporting events.

14. Tell me what do you like most about your work?

There's a lot of variety in this job, especially because I work on so many different types of programmes. I like the fact that this isn't a nine-to-five job. I also enjoy the travel. I've been to Rio de Janeiro, shooting a documentary on world music. I also climbed Mount Kilimanjaro, filming 15 local people who were raising money for charity. I travel in the UK and Europe to cover football matches.

15. Tell me should you not have any of the above filters you may have to attend site during the hours of darkness?

I have installed a new camera and lens why I am unable to obtain a sharp image?

The most common resolve to this is to ensure that both camera and lens are the same mount i.e. 'CS' mount lens on a 'CS' mount camera and a 'C' mount lens on a 'C' camera

16. Tell me how do I Back Focus a camera fitted with a ZOOM Lens?

This can be achieved by following these steps.

☛ Set the lens to full wide angle view.
☛ Set the physical focus of the lens to infinity (clockwise viewed from the front).
☛ Aim the camera at an object at least 30 Meters away.
☛ Release the camera back focus mechanism.
☛ Adjust the back focus to obtain optimum clarity.
☛ Zoom the lens in to full telephoto and focus on a nearby object.
☛ Keep this object in view as you slowly zoom out and if all is set correctly it should remain in focus (track).
☛ Secure the back focus mechanism.

17. Tell me what is the maximum distance I can run 12vdc when powering a camera?

This is a commonly asked question and there is no simple answer. Some manufacturers may recommend that their cameras can be run over (X) distance with (Y) cable. This however should still be considered as a general guide. Cable conductor size and installation route must also be taken into consideration. If you are unsure, we would recommend that you contact Technical Support for guidance.

18. Tell me the responsibilities of a Camera Operator?

☛ Work with directors to determine all aspects of shots
☛ Provide practical and creative input to scene planning
☛ Select, assemble and position equipment (cameras, stands, software etc.)
☛ Prepare cameras and test angles or camera movements
☛ Shoot scenes according to requirements
☛ Capture quality footage from a fixed or moving position
☛ Collaborate with make up artists, lighting and sound staff to produce the best final effect
☛ Resolve technical or practical issues
☛ Edit footage as needed

19. Tell me what sort of camera do you shoot with?

Our camera operators an extensive range of cameras, and we match the equipment to your requirements and budget. For web and corporate videos we'll usually shoot with a Sony FS100 or Canon DSLRs. For high end TV commercials and corporates we shoot with a Sony F3

20. Explain me what if I can't be at the shoot?

Many interstate and International clients choose our cameraman to shoot on their behalf. As a corporate video production company with many high end clients, we understand the importance of representing your organisation professionally. When you hire a our camera crew we are there on your behalf, and protect the relationship that you have with your client

21. Please tell us what is the most difficult situation you have had to face and how did you tackle it?

When weather and gear is not favorable still got the shoot material for project.

22. Explain about a situation where you had to quickly adapt to inevitable changes as a Video Camera Operator?

When there was power shut down I used my Mobile phone to capture the moments and got rewarded as this was the only material had available for producer.

23. Explain me how do I set up a camera and lens for use in Low Light conditions and or with Infra Red Lighting?

When setting the back focus of a Color camera for low light conditions you should place an ND1 (Neutral Density) filter in front of the lens. When setting the back focus of a Mono camera for low light conditions you should place an ND3 (Neutral Density) filter in front of the lens. When setting the back focus of a Mono camera fitted with I/R lighting for low light conditions you should place an IRP (Infra- Red Pass) filter in front of the lens.

24. Do you know what is Digital CCTV?

Digital CCTV, or Digital Closed Circuit Television, is the technology used in modern surveillance systems. Traditional ,VCR, CCTV pictures are sent via cctv cameras to a closed area, e.g. a CCTV Monitor, this type of CCTV is likely to produce lower resolution images and have to be displayed via cabling in the workplace. Modern Digital CCTV Systems can be operated remotely via a pc or mobile phone, can monitor various locations and can be monitored from wherever there is internet or GPRS Access.

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25. Tell me what is the correct level for a video picture?

The correct level is 1 volt peak to peak. This can only be accurately set either with an oscilloscope or with a video level meter.