Bob Hayes

As an operator I often do an eye focus in addition to trusting the first ac to do a tape focus. 1/2 the time we agree resulting in a self assured smile from the ac. 1/3 of the time I am wrong leading to a smirk from the ac. But, every once in a while I'll catch the ac saving both our jobs. Actors will often move after being taped. So double checking is a good idea.

Take a look at a natural location at sunset and see how the light plays. Is it pink or orange? Where does the fill light come from? Does it bounce of the floor or a wall. Is it as warm as the sunset light. Half the fun of being a cinematographer is observing the world around you. Look at the angle a sunset enters a room. And have fun.

Lightning Strikes are the best way. I have also had good luck with manually operated shutters on big lights. It was a good way to add additional lightning efects to a scene. It even looks a little more realistic if the flashes are not flashing exacting at the same moment. Bob

If you plan a 24 FPS film finish and shoot your TV at 29.97 your action will be slowed down when projected. One of the trick's I've done is to shoot the source material at 19.2 FPS. You can also have a video transfer house transfer original 24FPS material to 30 FPS speed. Then when you shoot it at 30 FPS it will be projected at the correct speed. Not a problem for video finish. Bob

I usually try to shoot these mini dvs at 60th of second. It looks most natural. If you leave it on auto often your shutter speeds will shoot up to 500 and the action will be very jumpy. One of the dangers of shooting at 60th is your f-stops will quickly shoot up to f16 revealing all the dirt on the front of your lens. Bob

I do a lot of world travel and I am concerned about sending video tape through the scanning machines. An LAX site recommended putting video tape in your hand carry luggage. I have always had my videos hand checked. This is becoming more and more difficult. Any info on this would be much appreciated. Bob