What Is A B Camera Operator?
A lot of people think that professional photography is only limited to having a large camera with lots of features, fancy light sources, and expensive lenses. While those are all important parts to being a photographer, there’s another key piece to the puzzle - the person operating the camera!
The person who operates the camera can make or break a photo, and it will cost you less (or more) than you think to learn your operator's craft.
Camera operators typically work under very bright lights, making them hard to see. They also have to be able to use their technical skills while talking over other people, keeping up momentum, and ensuring everyone else in the room gets what they want out of the image.
This article will go into detail about some of the things an aspiring b-camera operator should know.
Who is a b camera operator?
A main camera operator (or director) brings in other people to work with them to create a movie or show.
A principal cameraman is also referred to as a b camera operator, but that doesn’t sound very nice so we just refer to him as a cam operator!
As a cam operator, your job is typically to operate one of the cameras used for filming. This could be an overhead shot, low-angle lens, closeup, or even a 360-degree panorama.
The person you are working with will tell you what kind of camera they want to use and which settings they would like it to have, then you can find a way to make those things happen.
This article will talk more about the different types of b camera operators and what qualities are important when looking to advance your career.
Examples of b camera operator
A popular b camera position is as background artist, where you can find yourself taking many different shots throughout the movie. This person’s job is to create beautiful scenery or ambient settings that help tell the story.
B camera operators also have a very special way of moving their feet! When they are not shooting, their legs sync up with each other and the floor so that it looks like one long leg. This helps create more dramatic eye contact and intensity in their shot.
Furthermore, when they are filming someone else, they typically don’t look directly into their eyes but instead focus somewhere just beyond their face. This creates an interesting effect and gives the subject some space.
Equipment used by a b camera operator
A b camera is also known as a wide-angle lens or a fisheye lens because it creates an exaggerated perspective of the scene being filmed. Because this lens has a wider angle, there are sometimes issues trying to get enough space for all of your actors and/or characters.
In filming dramas like action scenes or conversations, this does not pose a problem since there is always more room in such settings. For other types of videos, though, having too much empty space can be frustrating.
Ways to be a b camera operator
As a b camera operator, or sometimes referred to as a second shooter, your job is to provide additional coverage for the main photographer. This can range from having a longer conversation with participants, moving in closer for more detail, or even fully documenting some part of the event that his/her body position limited.
The key thing about being a b camera person is knowing when to insert yourself into the picture. You do not need to be in every shot but when you know you are needed it makes sense to contribute.
Your supporting role goes beyond simply being there. The b cameraman must actively participate in the photoshoot and event to make it successful. He/she should bring something unique to the table and add value to the photograph.
B camera operators typically get less credit than the main photographer but their work is just as important. They shape the image and create engaging photographs by adding another layer or element to the photo.
Tips for a b camera operator
As a b camera operator, you will have different responsibilities than those who work with a standard or full-length lens. Yours include operating an additional camera angle, using lighters to illuminate your set, choosing background colors and styles, and ensuring that the other members of the crew are able to access all parts of their equipment.
While some people focus only on getting good quality footage, you will be just as focused on efficiency. This means limiting distractions like talking while filming and having enough equipment prepared ahead of time so that nothing is left waiting.
Making sure that everyone has what they need before shooting begins helps prevent any delays or disruptions during production.
B-Roll in filming
A good b-roll piece will always contain at least two, if not three or more, of the following shots. These can be very casual and naturalistic, or slightly posed and scripted.
Include establishing close ups and medium length exposures to show off your subject
Take pictures within the studio setting to add some depth
* Close up on their face
* Take their profile picture
* Add some ambient light for balance
These all contribute to creating an interesting narrative that adds value to the film!
When shooting outside, try to find neutral backgrounds with soft textures or indirect lighting to make the images feel steady and calm. Avoid direct sunlight as it may look fake or overdone.
Don’t shy away from going beyond the norm! If you have a friend who is already dressed for a party, take them there and get some great candid photos! Or go out during non-party hours and capture different types of people - students coming home, parents dropping kids off at school, etc.
B-roll can also include action pieces such as taking a trip down the beach or jumping into the pool.
Connect with us
As mentioned before, The Professional Photography School has you covered when it comes to developing your photography skills. There are many ways to take advanced courses through our school website. You can find all of our camera related courses in-depth here!
We also offer an interactive learning platform where you get to learn by doing. This is very important for someone who wants to master their craft. Here you will find live chat sessions where photographers teach each other different techniques and people come together to share theirs.
There you will find groups that focus on specific areas such as b&w, action shooting, landscape, fashion, etc. They are always changing so make sure to join at least one if you want to grow as a photographer!
You do not have to be signed up to the site to participate but it does help us provide you quality content! We hope you enjoy reading our blogs and taking some time to try out some new projects or tricks we talk about.