PLAYBACK TECHNICIAN

Playback Technician HIRE

Playback Technician 

• The playback technician is the person in charge of making sure that the video (and sometime audio) signal gets with no problem nor delays from the camera to every device meant to display the image present on set. It can be a very challenging job since some times there are many cameras, the video village looks more like a video city and there are a lot of devices to feed, both signal and power wise. So on the playback technician relies the responsibility that the director, the director of photography (if he is not operating the camera) and the clients and agency (if it is a commercial shooting) can see in real time the image, make sure that everything is fine and if not correct and/or change it in the least time possible. That is quiet a responsibility, isn’t it? At Camaleón Rental we collaborate with several playback technician that, since they work with us on regular basis, know perfectly both the cameras and the monitors and other display devices usually on set. On top of that they will also be able to guide you in the choosing of the most suited video gear for the kind of production your project needs.

• The video assistant in film, also known as digital video assistant (DVA) or video assist, plays an essential role in modern film production, especially on shoots using digital technology. Here are its main functions:

• Equipment setup: Mount and set up video monitors, recorders and other equipment needed for the video assist system.

• Technical adjustments: Adjust the technical parameters of the monitors and recorders to ensure optimal image quality and faithful reproduction of the shots.

• Real-time monitoring: Provide real-time monitoring for the director, director of photography and other key crew members during the shoot.

• Shot Verification: Allow the production team to immediately review recorded shots for composition, focus, lighting and other visual aspects.

• Shot Recording: Record shots on video assist devices for immediate review.

• Video storage: Organize and store video assist recordings in a systematic manner for easy access and later review.

• Shot marking: Marking specific shots that require special attention, such as those that need to be repeated or contain technical errors.

• Preventive maintenance: Perform regular maintenance of the video assist equipment to ensure proper operation.

• Troubleshooting: Diagnose and resolve technical problems that may arise with the video assist system during the shoot.

• Technical Assistance: Provide technical assistance to camera crew and other departments related to video playback and monitoring.

• Set up additional monitors: Set up additional monitors on set for other crew members who need to view footage in real time.

• Integration with other systems: Ensure integration of the video assist system with other digital systems on set, such as the DIT data management system.

• Data transfer: Coordinate with DIT for transfer of video assist data to post-production if necessary.

• Delivery of material: Deliver video assist recordings to the post production team for review and editing.

• The Film Video Assistant is responsible for providing real-time monitoring and recording of shots during the shoot, facilitating immediate review by the production team and ensuring that shots meet the required standards. Their role is crucial for efficient communication and quick decision making on set.