Even though being a 2nd AC can sometimes seem like a thankless job, there are so many things you can do on set that'll make everyone's life a whole lot easier. To give you an idea of what kinds of tasks 2nd ACs do on a film project, as well as a ton of great tips and tricks for doing those tasks quicker and easier, here's a very helpful video from Film Riot.

Host Ryan Connolly shared a lo of great insight into the work of a 2nd AC, so to make it a little easier for you, here's a list of all of the responsibilities he mentions, along with the tips that go with them.

Slating

It seems simple enough, but slating is a bit of an art form. You've got to make it easy for the editor to read, hear, and see all of the pertinent information relating to each scene, so here are some tips on how to do that:

  • Be aware of every scene (which scene/take/roll you're on)
  • Clearly call out your slate
  • Place the slate so that it fills the frame
  • Avoid cameos!
  • Have an insert slate on-hand for when a normal slate is too big to fit in the frame (like on extreme close-ups)

Slate

Changing a lens

Being a filmmaker, you've probably switched out your fair share of lenses, but you should make sure that you're following proper protocol when doing so on someone else's project.

  • Take the lens from the 1st AC with your fingertips, not with your palm (to avoid smudges)
  • Keep your hand over the sensor once the lens is removed
  • When the 1st AC hands you the lens, say "got it" once you know you're securely holding it
  • Put back cap and lens cap on lenses (and keep those caps in the camera bag, not in your pocket)
  • Never rush a lens change, no matter what

Lens_0

Setting marks

Again, here's another seemingly simple task that actually takes a little finesse to do right, setting marks for the actors and/or. Here are some tips on how to use your 1" camera paper tape like a pro:

  • Pick a specific color for each actor, and save fluorescent colors for camera marks
  • Leaving a tab on the end of your tape makes it easier to pull markers up, as well as grab more tape
  • No tiny T's, only big T's (4" x 12" is good)
  • Premake 4" tape tabs and stick them on the back of your insert slate for later use
  • Let actors know if you're going to "bust" or "dot" marks
  • Get T marks for all different kinds of terrain: sandbag T marks, metal T brackets, etc.
  • Use canned air on dusty/dirty surfaces before laying down tape

Tape_0

So, there you go. Now go out and be the best 2nd AC that you can be! 

Do you have any tips and tricks for 2nd ACs? Let us know in the comments.

Source: Film Riot

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