REMOTE HEAD OPERATOR

REMOTE HEAD OPERATOR

• From its invention back in the nineties, the remote head has given directors and directors of photography literally thousands of new possibilities when it comes to camera movements, since it can do stuff that was previously impossible, such dutch head movements, endless spinning on each axis, aside of extremely precise tilt and pan moves. It is and will be a really powerful and versatile tool, that aside of its upfront high costs, can at the end of the day save time and money to the production by making easier and faster, after the initial set up, to move the camera and/or put it in positions that would be extremely hard and dangerous to reach with other kind of grip, not to mention that the operator will not need to be by the side of the camera so it is also a better solution safety wise. Together with a technocrane or even a standard crane, the remote head is a key feature that can make the difference between a perfect shot and a bad one. At Camaleon Rental we can provide highly skilled remote head operators with decades of experience in feature film, commercial shootings and music videos that will make the movements your have in your heads become true, exactly the way you want them to be.

• The hot head operator is a specialist in the operation of cameras mounted on remote control devices, known as “hot heads”. These are motorized cameras that can be remotely controlled for precise, smooth and complex movements. This type of equipment is especially useful in shots that require movements that would be difficult or impossible to perform manually. The main functions of a hot head operator are described below:

• Camera Mount: Mount the camera on the hot head, making sure it is securely attached and balanced.

• Initial setup: Configuring and calibrating the hot head, adjusting parameters such as motion speed, sensitivity of the controls, and accuracy of the motion axes.

• Integration with cranes or dollies: Mount the hot head on cranes, dollies or other supports that allow an extended range of motion.

• Camera control: Operate the camera remotely using a control panel or joystick, controlling pan, tilt, rotation and other camera movements.

• Precise movements: Execute smooth and precise camera movements, following the action on set as directed by the director and cinematographer.

• Coordination with other operators: Work in sync with the crane or dolly operator and other technicians to ensure total fluidity in camera movements.

• Collaboration with the creative team: Collaborate with the director and director of photography to understand the needs of the shots and how hot head movements can contribute to the visual narrative.

• Rehearsing movements: Rehearse camera movements prior to shots to ensure they are performed smoothly and accurately.

• On-the-fly adjustments: Make adjustments to movements or hot head settings as needed based on feedback from the creative team during rehearsals.

• Troubleshooting: Identify and troubleshoot technical problems that may arise with the hot head or its control systems.

• Basic maintenance: Perform basic maintenance and technical adjustments to ensure that the equipment functions properly during the shoot, including cleaning, lubricating, and checking its electronic and mechanical components.

• Operational safety: Ensure that all camera movements are performed safely, avoiding risks to actors, crew and technical equipment.

• Innovation in movements: Coming up with creative camera moves that can be performed with the hot head to enhance the visual narrative of the production.

• The hot head operator in cinematography is a technical professional specialized in handling cameras mounted on remote control systems. His role is crucial to perform shots with complex, fluid and precise movements, which add aesthetic and narrative value to the film production. In addition to operating the equipment, he is also responsible for its setup, maintenance and safety, working closely with other members of the production team.