Where to learn film cameras in Chicago?

[Salil Sundresh]

I'm relatively young and in Chicago. Therefore it's been difficult to get into the camera department on a project shooting 35mm film. I've read about the cameras and inventory procedures and such. But as with most things on set...reading a book will only get you so far until you actually see how it's done in the field. Is there anywhere in Chicago I can learn the operation of film cameras so I could work as a loader or AC should I be offered such a job? I understand the theory, relatively well read but haven't gotten my hands on the gear. I mostly work as a 2nd AC with the red and other digital cinema or video cameras.

[Brian Drysdale]

A common way it to attend a workshop;

 

http://www.mainemedia.edu/workshops/film/category/cinematography

 

Perhaps not located in Chicago, but people go there from all over North America and overseas.

Edited September 2, 2010 by Brian Drysdale

[Michael Kubaszak]

Call up Schumacher or Fletcher and ask them. You can also ask the 1st AC's that you are working for.