Course Title: Compose camera shots and operate a camera

National Element Code & Title:

CUFCAM03A Compose camera shots and operate a camera

Performance Criteria:

1.1 Liaise with the relevant personnel and interpret and confirm
the shot requirements so that aesthetic and technical
production and script/production requirements are met
1.2 Generate a range of ideas for the composition of shots which
provide creative solutions to the production issues
1.3 Discuss ideas and collaborate, as required, with relevant
personnel to ensure contribution of ideas to the initial
concept
1.4 Reflect on and appraise ideas for implications on cost and
time, technical feasibility, and suitability to meet the
production requirements
1.5 Devise shots to ensure that correct visual interpretation of
the script/production requirements is met through close
liaison with relevant personnel
1.6 Ensure that composition of shots meets the aesthetic
requirements and provides the correct visual interpretation
of the script/production requirements

Performance Criteria:

2.1 Assess the quality and quantity of available light and
determine the amount of correction required, if necessary
2.2 Confirm that the available light is sufficient for the
production requirements by utilising appropriate meters
2.3 Correct mixed light sources to achieve a uniform colour
balance
2.4 Ensure corrective actions are taken to address changing or
inadequate lighting conditions
2.5 Liaise closely with lighting personnel to achieve the
required image and agree to the use of artificial light sources

Performance Criteria:

3.1 Make use of corrective filters to:
• meet the creative/and or technical requirements of the
production
• change the effects of available light to the quality
required to suit film in use
• ensure that correct colour balance and light conditions
are attained

Performance Criteria:

4.1 Determine the required focal length, depth of field and
select lens according to technical and creative requirements
and available light
4.2 Select focal length according to the type and stability of the
camera mounting and degree of intended camera movement
during the shot
4.3 Control exposure by use of correct aperture

Performance Criteria:

5.1 Communicate the start and end of the moving shot clearly to
all relevant personnel, as required
5.2 Identify and clearly communicate the route and timing of
camera movements
5.3 Identify and discuss problems with relevant personnel and
modify movements accordingly

Performance Criteria:

6.1 Liaise with relevant personnel regarding the shots required
and ensure that their sequence is clear and coherent
6.2 Position camera for shots to ensure the safety of all
personnel, performers and the general public
6.3 Select camera positions to meet aesthetic and technical
requirements and in consultation with the appropriate
personnel
6.4 Consider all camera shots and angles to ensure cuts between
shots produce the desired result
6.5 Consider editing and other post-production requirements
whilst filming
6.6 Adjust and move equipment, as required, during the shoot
with consideration to the timelines and deadlines of the
production schedule
6.7 Move camera to capture planned or rehearsed shots,
according to direction received from relevant personnel

Performance Criteria:

7.1 Employ photographic and composition techniques to
achieve the aesthetic requirements and to capture well
composed and focused shots
7.2 Maintain the desired composition by ensuring that any
camera movement is steady and smooth throughout the
duration of the shot
7.3 Maintain focus throughout the filming
7.4 Execute zoom movements and focus changes to achieve the
required image, and in accordance with any instructions
from relevant personnel
7.5 Maintain camera and lighting conditions throughout filming
to ensure that image and light quality meet the stylistic
effect required
7.6 Coordinate the efforts of other personnel to achieve the
desired image

• orientation  

Producing Videos: A Complete Guide
Martha Mollison
AFTRS Allen & Unwin

9781865089164

Film Directing Cinematic Motion – A workshop For Staging Scenes
Steven Katz
Michael Wise Productions

0941188140