Camera Assistant
NEP Group, Inc. · United States
- Hybrid
- Full-time
- £30,000 / year
- United States
Job highlights
- Assist with camera operations for live broadcasts.
- Prepare and rig broadcast equipment on location.
- Collaborate with various production departments.
- Learn new camera skills and technologies.
- Travel UK and internationally for events.
About the role
Company Overview
NEP UK, part of the NEP Worldwide Network, is a global leader in outside broadcasting, remote production, and media workflow solutions. Known for delivering high-quality broadcasts for clients like The Grand National, Wimbledon Championships, Premiership Football, Squid Games, and Love Island, NEP UK prides itself on its innovative technology, passionate team, and unwavering commitment to excellence.
The Role
The purpose of this position is to provide camera assistance with some camera operation on a variety of Outside Broadcasts such as sports, entertainment and music events as well as prepping these Outside Broadcasts within our base at Bracknell. This is a pivotal role with within the organisation and camera department. There is opportunity to develop new skills and progress to a Camera Operator over time. NEP is committed to providing state-of-the-art technology to its clients and is highly regarded in the industry for its focus on client service and satisfaction.
This position will require travel throughout the UK, with some opportunities to work internationally. All applicants must be willing and able to travel, and a full UK driving licence and access to a vehicle will be essential.
Responsibilities
Pre-Planning:
- Assist with camera / kit preps prior to the OB as required within base, including physically loading equipment.
- Act as the liaison with our broadcast operation team to ensure correct equipment will be supplied.
- Liaise with Unit Manager and Camera Supervisor / Operators prior to the OB, and assist in the choice of camera mounting, camera position, lens selection and angles, filters etc.
- Liaise with other departments and provide support where required. This will include Sound, Vision, and Rigging.
- Build knowledge of 3rd party suppliers of specialist equipment.
On Location:
- Assist the Unit Manager, Camera Supervisor, Camera Guarantee and Camera Dept. on all camera duties.
- Offer support to all departments working across the OB.
- Rig equipment which would require familiarity with a wide range of mountings – tripods, dollies, cranes etc. together with knowledge of different cameras – UHD, HD, GVG and Sony; in addition to experience and familiarity with a full range of lenses.
- Working knowledge of TV technology in order to provide Assistance to engineers and help with fault-finding.
- Work in physically challenging conditions with the correct training and following Health & Safety guidelines. – ascending towers, working at heights, use of hoists etc.
- Develop awareness and utilise production grammar such as ‘Mid-shot’ ‘Crossing the line’.
- Understand talkback etiquette when talking to the Director and Production.
- Some operation of Cameras (in time) – hand-held, long lens depending on type of programme and production needs.
- Understand shallow and large depth of field as experience develops.
- Framing of shots – artistically and/or in relation to the type of programme – e.g., football offside; awareness of safe area/aspect ratios.
- P.S.C / Eng. – assist single camera work with some possible operation.
- Direct own work, dealing directly with artists, controlling exposure and lighting, shot logging, liaising with public.
- Lighting – assist small/medium lighting set-ups with a variety of lights and reflectors.
- Build knowledge of technical/artistic requirements of lighting.
Post OB
- De-rig in a safe and professional manner.
- Ensure that all equipment is correctly packed and faulty equipment labelled.
- De-rig tender at base onto shelves and ensure hire equipment is returned.
- Ensure that faulty equipment is sent to maintenance department for repair.
Key skills/competency
- Camera Assistance
- Outside Broadcasts
- Equipment Prepping
- Technical Support
- Health & Safety
- Communication Skills
- Teamwork
- Adaptability
- Problem-Solving
- Live Broadcasts
Skills & topics
- Camera Assistant
- Broadcast
- Outside Broadcasting
- OB Van
- Live Events
- Sports Broadcasting
- Media Production
- Technical Assistant
- NEP Group
- Camera Operator Training
How to get hired
- Tailor your resume: Highlight relevant camera assistant, broadcast, and technical experience.
- Showcase your skills: Emphasize your understanding of broadcast technology and health & safety.
- Demonstrate your flexibility: Mention your willingness to travel and possess a UK driving license.
- Prepare for interviews: Be ready to discuss your creative eye and problem-solving abilities.
- Apply promptly: Submit your application to be considered for this exciting opportunity.
Technical preparation
Familiarize with camera types: UHD, HD, GVG, Sony.,Understand various camera mounting systems.,Learn about different types of lenses.,Study basic TV technology and fault-finding.
Behavioral questions
How do you handle pressure during live broadcasts?,Describe a time you worked effectively in a team.,How do you adapt to changing production needs?,How do you prioritize tasks under tight deadlines?
Frequently asked questions
- What are the main responsibilities of a Camera Assistant at NEP UK?
- As a Camera Assistant at NEP UK, you'll primarily assist with camera operations for various outside broadcasts, including sports, entertainment, and music events. This involves pre-planning and prepping equipment, rigging cameras and related gear on location, supporting other departments, and de-rigging equipment post-event. You'll also gain experience with different camera types, lenses, and mounting systems, and develop an understanding of broadcast technology and production grammar.
- What qualifications are essential for the Camera Assistant role at NEP UK?
- Essential qualifications for this Camera Assistant role include a full UK driving licence, access to a vehicle, and a willingness to travel throughout the UK and potentially internationally. You should also possess strong communication skills, a flexible attitude, and the ability to work calmly under pressure, especially during live broadcasts. Basic computer literacy in Microsoft Office is also required.
- What opportunities for career growth are available for a Camera Assistant at NEP UK?
- NEP UK is committed to employee development. For a Camera Assistant, there's a clear opportunity to develop new skills and progress to a Camera Operator role over time. The company's focus on state-of-the-art technology and client satisfaction provides a dynamic environment for continuous learning and career advancement within the broadcast industry.
- What kind of events can I expect to work on as a Camera Assistant at NEP UK?
- You can expect to work on a wide variety of high-profile outside broadcasts. NEP UK is known for covering major events such as The Grand National, Wimbledon Championships, Premiership Football, and popular entertainment shows like Squid Games and Love Island. This offers a diverse and exciting range of productions to be involved in.
- How important is technical knowledge for a Camera Assistant at NEP UK?
- While not requiring deep engineering expertise, a working knowledge of TV technology is beneficial for a Camera Assistant at NEP UK. This includes familiarity with different camera types (UHD, HD, GVG, Sony), lenses, and mounting systems (tripods, dollies, cranes). The ability to assist engineers with fault-finding and understand technical requirements, especially for lighting, is valuable.