How to Be Freefall Camera Operator - Job Description, Skills, and Interview Questions

Mar 22, 2020 / 6 Minutes Read / By Albert

How to Become

Professional Organizations

FAQ

Links

The role of a freefall camera operator is to capture shots from the air as actors or stunt performers fall from a great height. This requires a great deal of skill, expertise, and knowledge to ensure that the shot is properly framed and that the safety of the participants is not compromised. To achieve this, the camera operator must have an in-depth understanding of the physics behind freefall and the ability to judge the speed and trajectory of the fall in order to capture the perfect shot.

Furthermore, the camera operator must have an eye for detail and be able to work quickly and accurately in order to capture the most dynamic footage. the success of a freefall shot depends heavily on the skill and experience of the camera operator.

Steps How to Become

Obtain the necessary certifications. Most freefall camera operators are required to have a commercial pilot's license and a parachute rigger's certification.
Earn a degree in cinematography. It is beneficial to have formal training in cinematography in order to become a successful freefall camera operator.
Take classes in skydiving. Classes offered by skydiving schools will teach you the basics of freefalling, parachute deployment and air navigation.
Get experience with various camera systems. It is important to be familiar with the different types of cameras used for aerial filming.
Obtain a high-altitude rating. A high-altitude rating enables you to fly above 18,000 feet, which is the optimal altitude for aerial filming.
Become certified in aerial filming. Organizations such as the Society of Aerial Cinematographers offer certification programs specifically tailored for aerial camera operators.
Get a job with a production company. Working with an experienced production company is one of the best ways to gain experience and hone your skills as a freefall camera operator.
Practice and perfect your aerial footage. The more practice you have, the better equipped you will be to capture stunning footage during freefalls.

Being an efficient and ahead-of-the-game freefall camera operator requires a great deal of preparation and attention to detail. It starts with knowing the types of equipment you need for the job and staying up to date on the latest technology and trends within the industry. familiarizing yourself with the rules and regulations governing the use of aerial photography can help ensure that you stay compliant with all applicable laws and regulations.

it is important to plan ahead and remain organized during shoots to ensure all necessary equipment is on hand and ready to go when needed. Finally, having strong communication skills and networking with other professionals in the field can help you stay ahead of the game and build a successful career as a freefall camera operator.

You may want to check Skydiving Instructor Evaluator, Skydiving Flight Suit Technician, and Indoor Wind Tunnel Technician for alternative.

Job Description

Set up and operate camera equipment to record footage for film and television projects.
Follow directors instructions and ensure that the desired shots are recorded.
Set up and maintain camera equipment in accordance with safety protocols.
Monitor and adjust camera settings during filming to ensure optimal lighting and composition.
Utilize special camera techniques such as panning, zooming, and tracking shots for dramatic effect.
Troubleshoot technical issues and make adjustments as required.
Maintain records of footage shot and update production logs accordingly.
Transfer footage to editing facilities and other departments involved in the production process.
Work closely with cinematographers and other camera operators to coordinate shots and ensure continuity.
Ensure that all safety protocols are followed while operating freefall cameras in extreme locations.

Skills and Competencies to Have

Knowledge and experience in the use of professional video cameras.
Ability to operate a camera from a freefall platform.
Ability to mount, balance and adjust a camera and related accessories for freefall use.
Knowledge of safety guidelines and procedures for freefall camera work.
Understanding of the principles of flight and aerodynamics.
Knowledge of aerial photography techniques and processes.
Ability to troubleshoot technical issues and make necessary repairs on the fly.
Ability to communicate effectively with other crew members and producers.
Ability to think quickly and respond to changing conditions.
Strong physical condition, good balance and hand-eye coordination.

Having the right skills as a freefall camera operator is essential for capturing stunning footage of skydivers in action. The most important skill to have is the ability to accurately judge the speed and trajectory of a freefalling skydiver. Knowing how the skydiver is moving and the right moments to take the shot can make a huge difference in the quality of the footage.

having a good eye for composition is also necessary to create beautiful and dynamic shots. A good freefall camera operator must also be knowledgeable in operating the equipment and be able to adjust settings quickly and accurately in order to capture the best possible image. Finally, having a good idea of how to edit the footage is essential in order to make sure the shots are suitable for broadcast.

With the right skills, a freefall camera operator can create amazing footage that will be appreciated by viewers around the world.

Skydiving Flight Logistics Coordinator, Wing Suit Pilot, and Skydiver Load Organizer are related jobs you may like.

Frequent Interview Questions

What experience do you have operating a freefall camera?
How do you ensure that the camera is correctly oriented while in freefall?
What strategies do you use to capture the best image quality while the camera is in freefall?
How do you troubleshoot technical issues with the camera while in freefall?
Describe a challenging situation you encountered while operating a freefall camera, and how you overcame it.
What safety protocols do you adhere to when operating a freefall camera?
How do you adjust the camera settings for different lighting conditions in freefall?
How would you handle a situation where the client requested a shot that was not possible with the freefall camera?
What is your experience with editing footage captured by freefall cameras?
What tips do you have on setting up and maintaining a freefall camera rig?

Common Tools in Industry

Gimble Stabilizer. A motorized device designed to reduce camera shake and stabilize footage while shooting in high-speed situations. (e. g. DJI Ronin-S Gimble Stabilizer).
Handheld Camera Rig. A lightweight, adjustable camera mount with a handlebar design to allow for fluid movement while shooting in freefall. (e. g. Freefly MoVI M5 Handheld Camera Rig).
Helmet Mount. A camera mount designed to be worn on the head, allowing for hands-free shots while in freefall. (e. g. GoPro Helmet Mount).
Lanyard. A security device that attaches to the camera to keep it attached to the operator during the freefall. (e. g. Freefly Lanyard).
Remote Control. A device used to control the camera from a distance, allowing for precise movements and angles during the freefall. (e. g. Freefly CineMotion Remote Control).

Professional Organizations to Know

International Cinematographers Guild (ICG)
Society of Camera Operators (SOC)
American Society of Cinematographers (ASC)
Motion Picture Editors Guild (MPEG)
International Association of Broadcast Manufacturers (IABM)
Professional Aerial Cinematography Association (PACA)
Specialized Aerial Cinematographers Association (SACA)
Association of Independent Commercial Producers (AICP)
International Association of Film and Television Producers (IAFTP)
Academy of Motion Picture Arts and Sciences (AMPAS)

We also have Skydiving Instructor, Skydiving Tandem Master, and Canopy Formation Instructor jobs reports.

Common Important Terms

Camera Crane. A camera crane is a device that is used to raise, lower and move a camera in any direction, providing a wide range of motion and angles.
Camera Jib. A camera jib is a specialized crane that can be used to move the camera in an arc, allowing for smooth tracking shots and panoramic views.
Camera Slider. A camera slider is a device that allows a camera to be moved along a fixed track. It is typically used for tracking shots and to provide smoother motion than a handheld camera.
Steadicam. A steadicam is a device that allows a camera operator to move the camera without shaking or jerking. It is often used for long tracking shots and other dynamic camera movements.
Dolly Shot. A dolly shot is a technique where the camera is mounted onto a moveable platform and moved in any direction. This allows the camera to move with the action, creating dynamic and interesting shots.
Aerial Camera. An aerial camera is a type of camera that is mounted onto an aircraft or drone, allowing it to capture images from high above the ground.
Remote Head. A remote head is a device that allows a camera operator to control the camera from a distance, providing greater flexibility and control over the cameras movement.
Gimbal. A gimbal is a device that stabilizes the camera and keeps it level no matter how much it is moved or shaken, making it ideal for freefall shots.

Frequently Asked Questions

What is a Freefall Camera Operator?

A Freefall Camera Operator is a professional filmmaker responsible for operating cameras while in freefall, typically done during skydiving or BASE jumping.

What type of camera is used for freefall cinematography?

Freefall cinematography typically requires the use of specialized cameras, such as GoPro or Red cameras.

What type of training is necessary to become a Freefall Camera Operator?

To become a Freefall Camera Operator, one must have experience in operating cameras while in freefall and also be familiar with aerial cinematography techniques. Skydiving certification is also required.

How many jumps does it take to become a proficient Freefall Camera Operator?

The amount of jumps required to become a proficient Freefall Camera Operator varies depending on the individual's experience and ability. It is recommended that at least 25 jumps be completed before attempting aerial cinematography.

What are the risks associated with Freefall Camera Operation?

Risk factors associated with Freefall Camera Operation include disorientation, equipment failure, and the potential for mid-air collisions with other jumpers.