Directing Actors: Creating Memorable Performances for Film & Television

Amazon.com

This is essential reading for anyone interested in directing or acting. Judith Weston's brilliance is to recognize that directors, actors, writers, and technicians are involved in a process that is at essence a collaboration. In order for them to have the best shot at creating something true and meaningful, they must share a language and a method of exchange that fosters creative cooperation. Weston rightly sees the director as the central figure in inspiring the energy of a production's harmony. She advises the prospective director on every aspect of a stage or film production, showing how the director can draw the best performances possible from actors.

Book Description

Internationally-renowned directing coach Weston demonstrates what constitutes a good performance, what actors want from a director, what directors do wrong, script analysis and preparation, how actors work, and shares insights into the director/actor relationship.

Customer Reviews:

Buy this book now!.......2007-04-15

If you are even thinking that this book might be of some interest to you, I can assure you it will change the way you work -- all for the good. Weston has boiled down and focused the art of getting a performance in a clear and brilliant manner. What else can I say, why are you still reading this - buy it. Simple.

Simple techniques that WORK!.......2007-02-05

Judith Weston has outlined for the director (of any performance, not just film) quick and effective ways to communicate and elicit the performance you want... at the very least, you will get something different. I am an actress who has had the privilege of working with Judith and her directors. I have seen the process in action. I've used it. When someone has truly applied the techniques that this book recommends, it doesn't matter if the actors have just started, or if they're old pros, with vastly different methods, the performances are fresh. The performances change. The performances improve! READ THIS BOOK!

No other book on acting or directing comes close.......2006-10-18

This book isn't just for directors. It is an invaluable resource for actors as well. I've taught film and video acting for a number of years and never found a book that was worth having students read even part of. Until this one. Unlike most books on acting which focus on techniques that may work great on stage but are worse than disastrous on film, Judith Weston goes under the surface of acting and directing to the core of what a close-up camera needs to see. That, in a nutshell, is "lending the character your unconscious," so that absolutely nothing looks (or is) fake or "pretend." Even more importantly, she provides down-to-earth, extremely effective techniques for directors that support and demand genuine, affect-free performances. She discusses the creative process of the director at a level that is not idiosycratic or based on her personal "style" (as so many books for directors and actors do). Her advice is both common-sensical and deeply insightful, it's what every good director knows but often can't articulate consistently enough. Don't miss this book if you work in film or video, whether you are a director, actor, teacher, editor, DP, AD, or even a gaffer. After reading Weston, you will see every aspect of the actors performances more truly and clearly, and find yourself finding new ways to get the most out of every second on screen. One of those books that changes your life by telling you what you already knew more clearly than you ever thought it could be said, and giving you fresh new ways to put it into practical use. Highest recommendation.

the best book on directing actors.......2006-02-17

This book teaches the most important skill a director can possess: getting great performances from actors.

She breaks things down into logical bits and helps you avoid many common mistakes directors make, such as giving unplayable directions, giving too many directions, talking too much, etc.

She writes with wisdom, insight, and humor.

If you're a director or a wannabe director, do the world a favor and read this book so the world has better performances to watch.

This book is the best kept secret in show business. An even more valuable secret is her workshop, which she teaches regularly in L.A. as of this review (Spring 2006).

Great beginner book.......2005-10-14

I agree with Thor Vadir's review in that it did favor the actor more often than not. But that is ok as long as you are aware ahead of time.

As a very first time director, I read this book through 2x before my shoot. It is a 40 min short film with paid actors.
It was very helpful as a true newbie.

This, coupled with some experience under my belt, has given me a great start to my (hopeful) career.

Average customer rating:

This book made me a film maker.
editing is tricky buisiness
Informative, interesting and Nice Bed Time Reading
Classic. Essential. Practical.
Timeless value

On Film Editing
EDWARD DMYTRYK
Manufacturer: Focal Press
ProductGroup: Book
Binding: Paperback

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Similar Items:

The Eye is Quicker: Film Editing: Making A Good Film Better
In the Blink of an Eye Revised 2nd Edition
Technique of Film Editing, Second Edition
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Cut by Cut: Editing Your Film or Video

ASIN: 0240517385

Amazon.com

"Editing is the creative force of filmic reality." So Dmytryk, director of the American classic "The Caine Mutiny" begins this little book, which he hopes will aid film directors and editors in perfecting their art. It is informative for general audiences as well, demonstrating how deeply the experience of any film relies on the creativity and versatility of its editor.

Book Description

On Film Editing explains, in simple terms, the principles of film editing, using examples and anecdotes. Written in an informal "how-to-do-it" style, renowned director Edward Dmytyrk shares his expertise and experience in film editing in an anecdotal and philosophical way.

In On Film Editing, Dmytryk contends that many technicians and professionals on the film crew-- from the cameraman and his assistants to the producer and director-- must understand film editing to produce a truly polished work. In this book he explains in layman's terms the principles of film editing, using examples and anecdotes from almost five decades in the film industry.

A perfect introduction to film editing.

Written in easy to understand language

Supported by examples from famous films and the author's vast experience.

Customer Reviews:

This book made me a film maker........2007-06-11

One of the most important books in my life. I read and re-read this book in preparation for editing my FIRST film ever. Reviewers say my film possesses a "master level" edit. This book is why. Buy it. Read it. Re-read it.

My message to all young grasshopper: Read. And now read some more. Read and you become master phlegm-en-zepher.

editing is tricky buisiness.......2006-11-10

this is an excellent book on this very delicate craft. I also liked "the eye is quicker" but this was very informative and a better read. there is no substitute for actually editing and what works is hard to descibe in words but this book demonstrates some very subtles points and Mr. Dmytyk is a film maker. If your just starting read the eye is quicker but if you have some experience and want to go to the next level, this is a good one.

Informative, interesting and Nice Bed Time Reading.......2006-07-17

This is not only a really awesome book to help improve
your editing skill, but also one of the nicest overall books I've
ever read. Worth while buying.

Classic. Essential. Practical........2006-03-07

There are a lot of great books on the more artistic and unquantifiable aspects of motion picture editing (for example, Michael Ondaatje's Conversations with Walter Murch), but this is one of the few books to lay out the basics. Everyone who wants to edit motion pictures, whether it's home videos using iMovie or feature films using Avid or even (especially) actually cutting film should know what this book has to teach. It's really the only book for the novice editor worth reading. Just buy it.

Timeless value.......2005-12-24

Some principles are timeless. This is so with the techniques of editing. This book is as relevant and inspiring today as it was when it was first published.

Making Media: Foundations of Sound and Image Production

Average customer rating:

Making complex issues clear

Making Media: Foundations of Sound and Image Production
Jan Roberts-Breslin
Manufacturer: Focal Press
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Binding: Paperback

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The People and Process of Film and Video Production: From Low Budget to High Budget
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Only Connect: A Cultural History of Broadcasting in the United States
Writing about the World (with InfoTrac )
Copywriting for the Electronic Media: A Practical Guide (with InfoTrac®)

ASIN: 024080502X

Book Description

Making Media takes the media production process and deconstructs it into its most basic components. Students will learn the basic concepts of media production: frame, sound, light, time, motion, sequencing, etc., and be able to apply them to any medium they choose. They will also become well grounded in the digital work environment and the tools required to produce media in the digital age. A CD-ROM, compatible with both Macs and PCs, will provide interactive exercises for each chapter, allowing students to explore the process of media production. The text is heavily illustrated and complete with sidebar discussions of pertinent issues.

Focusing on the building blocks that transcend the boundaries between film, television, multimedia, and the Internet, this highly illustrated and interactive text stresses the commonalities of various types of media and prepares the student to succeed within a wide range of disciplines.

*Prepares students to move with ease into any number of media disciplines - film, video, photography, audio, multimedia
*Includes companion CD-ROM with interactive exercises
*Highly illustrated throughout

Customer Reviews:

Making complex issues clear.......2004-12-24

This book has been a real life saver for me on my first semester at graduate school. The other media books I had to read were overwhelming with never ending details and jargon language. Roberts- Breslin's book explains everything plainly from start to finish. She has an uncanny ability to simplify extremely complex matters. Even with no prior knowledge of the technical aspects of media making I now have a solid foundation.

The main terms are bolded, and also listed in the end so you can read the book beginning to end or just look up specific topics. The attached CD is a great addition as it visually illustrates concepts that are difficult to explain verbally, such as the different camera movement (What is the difference between the pan and truck movement?) or the phi phenomenon.

Another great thing about the book is the practical tips it gives to a beginner. Logging all my footage, for example, would have never accrued to me, but it made editing so much more manageable and must have saved me hours upon hours.

The Technique of the Professional Make-Up Artist

Average customer rating:

Geared towards professionals
Not very current...
Only relevant to FX artists
The Technique
Mostly Black & White Photos!

The Technique of the Professional Make-Up Artist
Vincent Kehoe
Manufacturer: Focal Press
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Accessories:

Laura Mercier Tinted Moisturizer

ASIN: 0240802179

Book Description

A classic in its field since its original publication, The Technique of the Professional Make-Up Artist is now revised, updated and paperback for a new generation of professionals. This encyclopedic resource covers all of the current studio make-up methods and lab techniques, with text and art contributions from some of the leading experts in the industry.

The author explains clearly and precisely the differing approaches to stage-lit, audience-attended television taping; studio-lit, no-audience taping; live television with natural outdoor lighting; live stage make-up ; and the innumerable techniques and methods of film make-up. In addition to detailing the basic, day-to-day 'paint and powder' procedures that are the bulk of any professional make-up artist's work. He also describes exciting new visual effects that can be achieved using puppetry, digital computing, and electronic coloration. Included in this paperback edition are:
* Revised make-up charts for men and women
* New special effects make-up photographs
* New information on contact lenses and dental work
* Updated information on film types
* Revised appendices.

Vincent J R Kehoe has been working in the professional make-up field since 1940. He has been in charge of make-up for more than 3000 major television, film, and stage productions, and was head of the make-up departments for CBS-TV in New York and the NBC Hallmark Hall of Fame series. His previous books include Special Make-Up Effects (Focal Press), The Technique of Film and Television Make-Up, and Photographic Make-Up for Stills and Movies, and he has written several articles on advanced make-up research for the Journal of the Society of Motion Picture and Television Engineers (SMPTE). As president and director of the Research Council of Make-Up Artists since 1963, Mr Kehoe designed and produced the entire Color Process line of RMCA Professional Products. He lives in Somis, CA.

A classic text updated for the next generation of make-up artists.
Covers all studio methods and lab techniques.
Contains information on many types of exciting new visual effects.

Customer Reviews:

Geared towards professionals .......2007-08-20

This book is definately geared towards the professional makeup artist. I'm an avid Halloween costumer and wanted to try special effects makeup but this book was over my head. The author assumes that you have some basic knowledge of makeup technique and the lack of color photos makes it impossible for the novice to figure out what he's talking about. I'm thinking of purchasing Laura Thudium's makeup book to learn the basics and then hopefully this book will be more useful.

Not very current..........2007-07-18

This was a good book and gave a lot of technical advice and illustration but it didn't help me as much as I was hoping. It's dated-- now we're having to deal with changes in makeup due to Hi-Def, etc. These are not addressed... nor are many other things that I think are relevant to doing makeup for film/tv in 2007.

Only relevant to FX artists.......2007-05-07

Why didn't I listen to the other reviewers? The tiny section on "beauty" makeup is dated and unhelpful.

The Technique .......2006-06-23

The book makes doing eyebrow shaping look easy...and it not only looks easy- by following a few steps it turns out it IS easy. If you want to learn the basics- buy this book. If you want to do a home makeover- go glamorous, sensual, then fun later on - buy this book. If you want to tune your look a bit- get it! I guess I don't have to go on, but if you are like me and need a bit of instruction and cant afford a makeup artist to be at your beckon call- buy this book.

Mostly Black & White Photos!.......2006-02-03

You would think that a book on makeup -- especially at this price -- would contain many more color photographs. After all, successful makeup is dependent upon illusions of color as well as light and shadow.

That said, I did learn a great deal from the book, particularly the chapter on human aging. This is a good book if you are as interested in makeup theory as you are technique.

Setting Up Your Shots: Great Camera Moves Every Filmmaker Should Know

Average customer rating:

Handy overview
Not what I expected
The definitive shot guide...
An awesome reference book
Brilliant, a must have for film-makers

Setting Up Your Shots: Great Camera Moves Every Filmmaker Should Know
Jeremy Vineyard
Manufacturer: Michael Wiese Productions
ProductGroup: Book
Binding: Paperback

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Similar Items:

Film Directing: Shot by Shot: Visualizing from Concept to Screen (Michael Wiese Productions)
The Five C's of Cinematography: Motion Picture Filming Techniques
What They Don't Teach You At Film School: 161 Strategies to Making Your Own Movie No Matter What
Cinematic Storytelling: The 100 Most Powerful Film Conventions Every Filmmaker Must Know
Rebel without a Crew: Or How a 23-Year-Old Filmmaker With $7,000 Became a Hollywood Player

ASIN: 0941188736

Book Description

Over 100 storyboards with simple descriptions.

Customer Reviews:

Handy overview.......2007-09-22

I bought this book to review my shots--and to give my fellow producer/director a quick education in terms and shot design.

The book is very good, giving 2 page briefs on various types of shots, including a list of films to look for them in, and a storyboard to show how the shot proceeds. the list of places where the particular shot has been used is especially nice, as it lets you go to the library of films and see how a shot works.

It is in a fairly large and somewhat awkward format being wider than it is high--it's better to keep this one in the office or at home to scan when thinking than to take out in the field--a field book would be nice, as it could be used to explain shots to the actors/subjects (I'm shooting a documentary and jargon is Greek to most people.)

Not what I expected.......2007-08-24

But then if I'd really paid attention to the title of the book I'm sure I'd have figured it out.

While I applaud Jeremys' interests in movies and his desire to make them and share his 'experience' with us this book does not actually teach you anything about how to set up these shots. All it does is point out shots that you will probably already know. One thing that really does grate is that instead of consulting an experienced DP to find out the names of these shots he has come up with his own, which he feels are more descriptive.

I'd say that if you have a very short history of watching films then perhaps there is something you can learn from this book. However, if you have any experience whatsoever with a camera this book will prove to be a waste of time and (sadly) money.

The illustrations are good. Of a storyboard level and at least give you an idea of how to represent an idea but sadly the book was let down by the fact it didn't really deliver anything useful.

The definitive shot guide..........2007-06-18

This book explains the language of film in a simple, visual style. In clearly grouped sections, it shows a large, clear visualization of the movement with a description of how it is achieved, and the name the industry recognizes for that move.

It covers all the basics, plus many unusual, technical or simply rarely used angles and moves, making it the definitive work for the indie filmmaker and above.

An awesome reference book.......2007-05-14

I've seen this book by Jeremy Vineyard tagged as simplistic and cursory. If you're a super-hip film school graduate who's been involved in the industry, this book may not be worth your time.
However, if you're an amateur, like myself, this book makes a great reference. I recently shot a short film and used this book extensively while storyboarding.
Easy enough for children and a good reference for the amateur filmmaker. I've definitely gotten my money's worth on this one.

Brilliant, a must have for film-makers.......2007-01-16

Just buy it! Explains every standard shot, with examples.

Portable Video: ENG & EFP, Fourth Edition

Average customer rating:

Portable Video: ENG & EFP, Fourth Edition
Norman Medoff , and Tom Tanquary
Manufacturer: Focal Press
ProductGroup: Book
Binding: Paperback

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Similar Items:

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Make it Memorable

ASIN: 0240804384

Book Description

Portable Video focuses on technique and technology for single camera electronic news gathering and electronic field production. Covering everything from basic creative and technical editing techniques to budgets and copyright issues, it is accessible to the home videomaker or amateur and to the professional seeking information on the newest advances in technique and equipment.

Portable Video: ENG and EFP, Fourth Edition has been revised and updated to cover all of the latest equipment and techniques. Additionally, it discusses the history of video production and electronic news gathering, and the importance of the verbal content in any production is explored in a chapter on scriptwriting.

A comprehensive guide to all aspects of field production
Theory is enhanced with real-life examples
Updated emphasis on digital video

The Art of Voice Acting, Third Edition: The Craft and Business of Performing for Voice-Over

Average customer rating:

The Best Bible of Voice-Acting Out There
Sloppy, inattentive to detial, repetative, some good info, though
This is the BIBLE for aspiring voice-over talent.
Thorough primer
Worthy Investment

The Art of Voice Acting, Third Edition: The Craft and Business of Performing for Voice-Over
James Alburger
Manufacturer: Focal Press
ProductGroup: Book
Binding: Paperback

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YOU CAN BANK ON YOUR VOICE: Your Guide to a Successful Career in Voice-Overs

ASIN: 0240808924

Book Description

From basic acting techniques and exercises for keeping the voice in top condition, to marketing and promotion of the actor, this book covers it all. The Art of Voice Acting is an excellent introduction to the business and art of voice acting. This new edition also features coverage of specialist areas of voice over: animation/video gaming and film/ movie trailer. Updated to reflect the latest changes in performance techniques and products in the industry, it is essential reading for all voice over actors. Packed with expert advice on job opportunities and career management tips, it is the ideal resource for anyone involved in the industry. The voice over demos and exercises on the expanded CD ROM complete this perfect modern manual to getting established in the voice acting industry.

*Learn insider tips on finding work, making audition tapes and establishing yourself as a professional voice over actor
*Gain expert advice on how to keep your voice in top condition
*Perfect your performing skills using easy-to-follow voice exercises and demos on CD Rom

Customer Reviews:

The Best Bible of Voice-Acting Out There.......2007-09-19

James Alburger wrote this book some years ago. In fact, he's on his 3rd edition! And this book is still so in style. Having worked in voice-over for a number of years here in Los Angeles I can honestly say that Mr. Alburger hits the nail on the head with his advice. He covers the basics like proper breath control, how to create believable characters and subtext, breaking down copy, recording a demo and how to succeed at your first session. You can follow the samples that he has included in the book and on the CD to practice your craft and get it down. How great is that!

Recently I heard that Mr. Alburger and his colleague Penny are putting on a major voice-over event here in L.A. sometime in the spring 2008. I don't think aspiring voice-over artists will want to miss that, but should read his book first.

By the way, Mr. Alburger is correct that on-going training and "classes" are essential to voiceover success....unless you are lucky enough to be working every day in the industry....which is very rare.

A must-read for anyone interested in entering this potentially lucrative industry. Break a leg!

Sloppy, inattentive to detial, repetative, some good info, though.......2007-08-09

Has some good information in it. It's written in simple, accessible prose. But, honestly, there were so many typos within the first few pages, that I started getting distracted and looking for them. It's also quite repetitive, reiterating, rather than adding to a point or topic. (i.e. "take as many VO and acting classes as you can!")

This is the BIBLE for aspiring voice-over talent........2007-08-09

Only thing I have a problem with in this excellent book is the rather constant "suggestions" that you stay in classes forever. As in stage and film acting, a lot of good, natural actors have been ruined by "teachers" who insist on "shaping" them to their own personal style. Works for some workshop junkies I suppose.

Thorough primer.......2007-06-05

This book provides all the necessary information one needs to find his or her way into the voice acting profession.

Alburger brims with enthusiasm and an earnest desire to share his experience to the benefit of others.

It could probably be a little more concise, but the positive tone of the book more than makes up for any wordiness or repetition.

Thanks, James!

Worthy Investment.......2007-05-18

The author, James Alburger, has taken his passion and years of knowledge, experience, and wisdom to assist others who are interested in the art of voice acting. I have not attended any workshops yet, but after reading this book that also comes with a demo cd... I feel that I have gained a wealth of information that will be very valuable as I develop my voice acting career.

This book covers tips, techniques, the business side, auditions, demos, characters, promotions, agents, and getting paid. I enjoyed this book and will read it over and over again on my acting journey.

Automated Lighting: The Art and Science of Moving Light in Theatre, Live Performance, Broadcast, and Entertainment

Average customer rating:

A Great Resource

Automated Lighting: The Art and Science of Moving Light in Theatre, Live Performance, Broadcast, and Entertainment
Richard Cadena
Manufacturer: Focal Press
ProductGroup: Book
Binding: Paperback

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ASIN: 0240807030

Book Description

"Automated LightingTechnology, Applications, and Design" is a comprehensive text covering everything you will need to know as a working or aspiring lighting professional about automated lighting fixtures, systems, how they are used and design issues you will face. It is written in clear, easy-to-understand language but includes enough detailed information that the most experienced technician and engineer will appreciate and benefit from reading. Subjects covered include the history of automated lighting, DC and AC electricity, basic electronics, power supplies, digital electronics, electro-mechanical systems, optical systems (including dichroic filters, reflectors, lenses, and more), lamp technology, lighting effects (including color mixing, glass gobos, and more), data distribution systems, DMX, RDM, and ACN. State-of-the-art automated lighting fixtures in various applications including theatre, television, concert/touring, and permanent installations are discussed and special design issues are addressed.

The text is amply illustrated with drawings and pictures. The newest technology in automated lighting--"digital" lighting or pixel-based automated lighting projection--is also covered in detail. This book is the antithesis of a reference manual or user manual. It is entertaining and educational with lots of graphic illustrations and easy-to-understand concepts. Its the most fun you can have without sitting behind a console.

* Numerous examples and illustrations
* Easy to read with little "tech-talk"
* Contains information on the newest lighting technology
* Minimal amount of math reduces the drudgery!

Customer Reviews:

A Great Resource.......2007-01-11

This book is an outstanding resource for anyone involved with Automated Lighting. It covers a wide range of lighting topics, but each with detail and accuracy. A must for anyone just starting to work with autoamtion (especially repairs), but has some great information for old pros as well. While this book has more for technicians than designers, any automation designer may find most of the content useful.

Set Lighting Technician's Handbook: Film Lighting Equipment, Practice, and Electrical Distribution

Average customer rating:

A lot of Really Good Info.
Great for beginners or review for experts
A must have, for any D.O.P
Everything you wanted to know about lighting Film and TV but where afraid to ask
Everything I could've hoped for

Set Lighting Technician's Handbook: Film Lighting Equipment, Practice, and Electrical Distribution
Harry C. Box
Manufacturer: Focal Press
ProductGroup: Book
Binding: Paperback

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ASIN: 0240802578

Book Description

The Set Lighting Technician's Handbook is a friendly, hands-on manual covering the day-to-day practices, equipment, and tricks of the trade essential to the motion picture lighting technician. This handbook offers a wealth of practical technical information, simple techniques, as well as aesthetic discussions.

The Set Lighting Technician's Handbook focuses on what is important when working on-set: trouble-shooting, teamwork, set protocol, and safety. It describes tricks and techniques for operating a vast array of lighting equipment including xenons, camera synchronous strobes, black lights, underwater units, lighting effects units, and many others. This handy on-set reference has also been widely adopted as a training and reference manual by union training programs and top university film production programs.

New in the second edition:
Revised and updated throughout
12 new appendices of handy reference tables
Over 180 illustrations and photographs
Lots of new topics and gadgets

Harry C. Box is a Hollywood-based gaffer and director of photography.

Foremost hands-on guide to set lighting from an industry professional.
Only comprehensive source specific to the set lighting industry.
Practical, anecdotal, detailed, and comprehensive.

Customer Reviews:

A lot of Really Good Info........2007-06-03

A MUST HAVE for the inside scoop into the Industry.

Great for beginners or review for experts.......2007-05-15

If your planing a career in the motion picture or television business than this book will greatly advance your technical knowledge of the business. If your an old pro at the business the book is great for a quick reference to prepare you for a shoot.

A must have, for any D.O.P.......2007-05-15

This wonderful book, covering all the major areas in lighting, in enough detail to give a solid grounding. w

While it may appear a little too technical for the absolute beginner, it does offer a solid base in knowledge for those with a little experiance wanting to expand their knowledge, and take away plenty of ideas with which they can put to trial on future set's.

If your looking to become a cinematographer; but feel there are gaps in your knowledge, get this book. I believe it to be a must have.

Everything you wanted to know about lighting Film and TV but where afraid to ask.......2007-03-21

Harry C. Box's book on Set lighting for film and TV is the most comprehensive book on the subject. He writes with humor and an insiders knowledge, while taking the time to explain things as though you where a novice. If anyone is considering a career in Film production this is a must read on their list.

Everything I could've hoped for.......2007-03-11

This book is great in that in speaks to all levels. Going over the basics between a baby and a junior all the way up to distribution and specialty lighting, this book will inform the novice and work as a reference for the rest of us.

Most of the second half of the book is all reference charts. It's a great source for planning your next shoot all in one place (for those of us that don't have the luxury of getting half the rental shop to accommodate our needs).

The Camera Assistant's Manual, Fourth Edition

Average customer rating:

Amazing reference! May leave you a soulless husk if you read it all the way through...
The Best Book On The Subject. PERIOD.
The Best Technical Book on Moviemaking
Beginner to Pro
Must Have Manual

The Camera Assistant's Manual, Fourth Edition
David E. Elkins s.o.c.
Manufacturer: Focal Press
ProductGroup: Book
Binding: Paperback

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Set Lighting Technician's Handbook, Third Edition: Film Lighting Equipment, Practice, and Electrical Distribution
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ASIN: 0240805585

Book Description

Every film or video shoot calls for at least two camera assistants. Camera assistants (or first and second ACs, as they're known) have the important job of maintaining the camera, readying it for use, troubleshooting (such as knowing what to do when a camera drops into the ocean), and preparing it for transport. The Camera Assistant's Manual teaches the complete workflow in easy-to-understand terms and does not assume prior knowledge. It is a must-have on the set for camera assistants and is loaded with reference material such as camera illustrations, forms, charts, checklists, and equations. Invaluable career advice rounds out the book.

· New companion website with extensive forms, charts, and illustrations to print out and use
· Completely updated with information on digital video and high definition cameras that are changing the camera assistant's job
· Career tips and complete job descriptions help camera assistants get and succeed at jobs
· Companion website: www.cameraassistantmanual.com
· Author's site: www.davidelkins.com

Customer Reviews:

Amazing reference! May leave you a soulless husk if you read it all the way through..........2007-01-09

I bought this book when I was hired to AC for a project on equipment I had never worked with before. For one of those, "Holly crap! I agreed to do a job I only know how to do part of!" moments, this book is great. Every question I could think of was answered thoroughly and I mean THOROUGHLY. If you want to learn exactly what the responsibilities of an Assistant Camera Person are and how best to execute them read this book! If you are a working AC and want an easy to read, text-book style reference this is it.

The Best Book On The Subject. PERIOD........2005-12-03

Nothing comes close to David Elkins' book. It's that simple. This is the best, most complete book on the job of the camera assistant. PERIOD. If you are new to the job of the camera assistant, this book is an absolute must have. If you are a seasoned "vet" who has years of experience working on motion picture sets, again, this book is an absolute must have. Elkins' total description of every aspect of the AC's job is so consise, it's like a classroom in a book. Loaded with every conceivable diagram and chart, and covering every motion picture camera currently being used, this book goes well beyond your typical "job description" type tome.

The bonus materials alone make this book invaluable. Along with the companion website, the reader has vast amounts of precious material available for when the job calls for it...label templates, charts, manufacturer links and contacts, the list goes on and on and on. The best part is the writing style is clear and informative, almost like Elkins himself is teaching you as you go.

Look no further than this book. It's all here.

The Best Technical Book on Moviemaking.......2005-11-29

David Elkins's The Camera Assistant's Manual, Fourth Edition is the best technical book around, and one of the best books on movies, period.

Dave manages to cover every aspect of an assistant's job, no matter how obscure or infrequently encountered. But the completeness is only one aspect which recommends it to any aspiring or working cinematographer.

Written in a clear, conversational manner, Dave manages to demystify both the jargon and the sometimes strange job of an assistant. His accounts of procedure for both first and second assistants clarify what we in the business call "industry standard": the accepted, professional way of conducting yourself and doing a job. Outside of a job on a
Hollywood set, it is nearly impossible to learn these classic, time-saving routines. And unless you've been a pro in the business, you're not going to know about such things as the relative merits of Magliner and Rubbermaid carts for hauling equipment.

The book covers the general characteristics of film, cameras, and lenses in such a way as to give a general technical education. Dave also gives a valuable overview of the camera department and its place in film production overall.

What many readers will find most useful are the sections on troubleshooting, the diagrams and threading patterns of every currently used camera, and the wealth of forms and lists to organize the on-set work.

I've tried to give a good idea of what the book covers, but it contains much, much more. I've been using The Camera Assistant's Manual since the first edition. This is the biggest and the best version. I only wish that, when I started as a camera assistant, I had had access to such a clear, helpful book.

Beginner to Pro.......2005-10-17

The 4th Edition of the Camera Assistant's Manual by focal press author David Elkins is a must have for the beginner as well as the seasoned pro. From how to set up a darkroom, to threading diagrams on all "in use" cameras, to lifelong useful tables and charts, this edition has it all.

Must Have Manual.......2005-09-27

The Camera Assistant's Manual is a must have reference book for both beginners and experienced professionals in the camera department. If you are a beginner, this manual will teach you all of the basics as well as the advanced details of camera assisting. Although not a substitute for actual experience, author David Elkins also coaches you on how to act efficiently and professionally on a set. This can save you countless embarrassing blunders on your "first barbeque." But before learning all of the AC's duties, the reader is introduced to the basics of cinematography and a complete overview of the camera department. This is extremely helpful - allowing the beginner to understand the "big picture" first. If you are an experienced professional, Elkins gives you hundreds of tips and suggestions that will add to your knowledge base and help your job go smoothly. This 4th edition contains the most complete and up to date camera diagrams, tables, and formulas of any single reference source. Imagine your relief when you have to load and thread a new camera for the first time. The Camera Assistant's Manual is worth it's weight in gold.

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