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Hello All, I was wondering what resources I can use to learn about the massive amount of camera accessories and inputs and outputs for cameras and their accessories. I keep finding pictures of these huge camera rigs, where I cannot determine what some of the accessories may be. I want to learn as much as I can. Currently, I have been reading the Camera Assistant's Manual by David Elkins and working my way through Evan Luzi's blog, The Black And Blue. I also understand that much of this I will learn as I get more experience on sets, I have actually been able to learn a good (but small in perspective) amount of information about Red Epic cameras while 2nd ACing on an indie feature. As somebody determined to become an excellent 1st AC, any advice on where else I may look would be greatly appreciated and put to use. Best Regards, Joseph Robinson

I'm currently studying film at NYU with a concentration in cinematography. I am very serious and passionate about it but I'm just not sure how I go down the path. My end goal would be to be a feature and commercial DP and I understand that it will take time and I am ready to work my way up but how do I get there? Right now I'm just shooting/gaffing/AC projects for others at Tisch and looking for freelance jobs and fashion films. Should I be working to join the Local 600 union? If so, as what? 1st AC? Does anyone have tips on getting more jobs? Finally, does anyone have any advice as to what equipment I should get. Currently, I have a DSLR with lenses, a shoulder rig, follow focus, and an 8" monitor. Thanks a lot for your answers

coming to houston for a music video shoot coming up on the 26th and 27th of this month (may). looking for a 2nd AC to help me out as im by myself as of now. looking like a clapper/loader situation. coming out of LA. shooting red Epic, panavision package, c-series anamorphics. Let me know!!! also could use a camera cart... stevetw103@gmail.com

Hi everyone- I'm a Chicago-based filmmaker. I kinda do a little bit of everything; and lately, I've also been picking up a lot of AC work. I'm finally getting to the point where I need to put a small belt together alongside my AC kit. Nothing huge. I want to keep it light. So - I had a few questions regarding the belt itself. (not accessories and tools.) I really like the Arri 3" Padded belt: http://www.filmtools.com/arri-belt-1004-ar.html However, a lot of the Lindcraft pouches I'd like to get only support 2" belts: http://www.filmtools.com/linmintoolpo.html http://www.filmtools.com/linasbelpouc.html My questions are: 1. Has anyone owned/tried this particular belt? From the looks of it, it looks like it may support 2" pouches as well, but I can't find any confirmation on this. 2. Any suggestions for a 2" belt that is similar to the Arri one above? I really want the good padding because I'm a skinny guy and after a while a regular belt would start to hurt. I also really like the Arri because it has the extra loops which would be excellent for my uses. I've looked at the Lindcraft 2", but it has less padding and no loops: http://www.filmtools.com/li2pabeg16.html#reviews Any suggestions on other brands that have similar options? Thanks!

I may be traveling from Los Angeles to cape town south Africa for a spot on Monday 3/4/13 and may be looking for a 2nd AC for myself. Details are still coming in but as of now it sounds like we'll be shooting 35mm out of panavision. Does anyone know of any good ACs in that area? Don't know if I'll be able to hire a loader too so I'll most likely be looking for a clapper/loader. Also, an AC with a cart would be very helpfull. If not, is there a way I can rent a camera cart out there? Thanks for the help Stephen Taylor-wehr