First Edition, Second-hand

First Edition, Second-hand is the most fun I have ever had on set; a great crew, fun set pieces, awesome location and a new role to sink my teeth into.

I would like to commend Director Angel Tan, along with the crewmembers I worked most closely with DOP Hayley Norman and 1st AC Rami. Angel created a wonderful, friendly atmosphere on set where we all felt comfortable and free to give our thoughts. Hayley and Rami were a wonderful team to work with, and it was always fun to tease Rami. An atmosphere where you feel calm and comfortable goes a long way to calm your nerves when trying to do a job you’ve never done before.  

I had never been a 2nd AC before and as such had a lot of research to do; I learnt the correct way to slate a shot, how to set up, pack down and operate the Varicam LT, the correct way to clean lenses and how to fill out camera report sheets (I sourced some online and made my own adjustments so the Assistant Editor would have the information that was needed).

This was the most demanding role I have ever had simply due to the pace at which you have to work and complete all of your tasks on time, especially noting down the details of the scene on the report sheet and being ready with the slate for the next take. As the shoot went on I got more used to the role and began to become more confident and more efficient in my execution of it.

Due to the pace of the shoot, there were some inevitable hiccups; I missed recording some shots or made a mistake on the slate, however, I made sure to clearly note down on the report sheet what had happened and made myself available to answer any questions the editing team (though they never needed to ask).

It’s important to make a note of these mistakes and look at why they happened, they typically happened when I had allowed myself to be occupied by something outside of my role (giving the Director unwanted advice on a shot etc.) however like it is with a lot of shoots as it progresses you get more into the rhythm and what is needed of you and learn when to chime in and when not to.