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First Assistant Camera Jobs in California (NOW HIRING)

Rylo

Senior Camera Image Quality Engineer

San Francisco, CA · On-site

$104K - $141K/yr

Just a year and a half after founding Rylo, we shipped our first camera on time and with a team of ... These tools assist our recruitment team but do not replace human judgment. Final hiring decisions ...

Rylo

Senior Camera Image Quality Engineer

San Francisco, CA · On-site

$104K - $141K/yr

Just a year and a half after founding Rylo, we shipped our first camera on time and with a team of ... These tools assist our recruitment team but do not replace human judgment. Final hiring decisions ...

Caa Executive Search

Creators - Assistant

Los Angeles, CA · On-site

$20 - $22/hr

Centers the agency's digital, technology, and social-first monetization expertise, focusing on the ... Representing on-camera and off-camera talent, CAA works with the next generation of storytellers ...

Rylo

Embedded Software Engineer

San Francisco, CA · On-site

$154K - $203K/yr

Just a year and a half after founding Rylo, we shipped our first camera on time and with a team of ... These tools assist our recruitment team but do not replace human judgment. Final hiring decisions ...

Rylo

Software Engineer, C

San Francisco, CA · On-site

Just a year and a half after founding Rylo, we shipped our first camera on time and with a team of ... These tools assist our recruitment team but do not replace human judgment. Final hiring decisions ...

City of Paramount

Recreation Assistant

Paramount, CA

$26.89 - $32.69/hr

Description The City reserves the right to limit the applications considered to the first 100 ... Will serve as an on-camera content creator for City events and programs; acquire and maintain ...

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First Assistant Camera information

What does a first assistant camera do?

A First Assistant Camera, often called a 1st AC or focus puller, is responsible for maintaining the camera equipment and ensuring that all shots are in sharp focus during filming. They set up and adjust camera lenses, follow focus marks given by the director of photography, and manage lens changes and camera accessories. The 1st AC works closely with the camera operator and director of photography to ensure smooth camera operation and shot consistency. Their technical skills and attention to detail are crucial for capturing high-quality footage.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as a first assistant camera?

To thrive as a First Assistant Camera, you need in-depth knowledge of camera systems, focus pulling, lens handling, and on-set protocols, often gained through film school or extensive on-set experience. Proficiency with digital cinema cameras, wireless follow focus systems, and camera accessory equipment is crucial. Attention to detail, excellent communication, and the ability to work well under pressure are standout soft skills for this role. These skills ensure sharp, in-focus footage and efficient camera department operations, both vital for a successful film or television production.

What are some common challenges faced by a first assistant camera and how can they be managed?

First Assistant Camera (1st AC) professionals often face challenges such as maintaining critical focus during dynamic shots, managing lens changes quickly, and ensuring all camera equipment is functioning properly under tight schedules. To manage these, strong organizational skills, clear communication with the camera team and director of photography, and thorough preparation for each scene are essential. Proactive problem-solving and staying calm under pressure are key traits that help 1st ACs handle the fast-paced environment and minimize disruptions during filming.

What is the difference between First Assistant Camera vs Second Assistant Camera?

AspectFirst Assistant CameraSecond Assistant Camera
CredentialsCamera operation experience, technical knowledge, certifications in camera systemsBasic camera knowledge, assistant training, certification preferred
Work EnvironmentOn set, closely working with the Director of Photography and camera departmentAssists the First AC, manages equipment, and maintains camera gear
Industry UsagePrimary camera department role, involved in setup, focus, and maintenanceSupport role, handling loading, slating, and equipment prep

The First Assistant Camera (First AC) is responsible for focusing, maintaining, and operating the camera, requiring technical skills and experience. The Second Assistant Camera (Second AC) supports by managing equipment, loading film or media, and assisting with setup. Both roles are essential in the camera department, but the First AC has more technical responsibilities and oversight.

How much do First Assistant Camera make?

First Assistant Camera (AC) salaries typically range from $40,000 to $80,000 annually, depending on experience, location, and the scale of the production. Experienced ACs working on major projects or in high-cost areas can earn higher wages, and many also receive benefits such as health insurance and overtime pay.

What is the salary of a First Assistant Camera?

The salary of a First Assistant Camera (AC) typically ranges from $50,000 to $100,000 annually, depending on experience, location, and the production budget. Entry-level positions may start lower, while experienced ACs working on major projects can earn higher wages and overtime pay.

What are popular job titles related to First Assistant Camera jobs in California?

For First Assistant Camera jobs in California, the most frequently searched job titles are:

What job categories do people searching First Assistant Camera jobs in California look for?

The top searched job categories for First Assistant Camera jobs in California are:

What cities in California are hiring for First Assistant Camera jobs?

Cities in California with the most First Assistant Camera job openings:

First Assistant Camera jobs near you
Infographic showing various First Assistant Camera job openings in California as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 1% As Needed, 80% Full Time, 15% Part Time, and 4% Contract. Highlights an 85% Physical, 1% Hybrid, and 14% Remote job distribution.

FIRST ASSISTANT DIRECTOR (AD)

Legendary Studio Shows (LSS) Universal, LLC.

Los Angeles, CA • On-site

$80 - $100/hr

Other

Posted 9 days ago

Job description

Seeking an experienced First Assistant AD to support the creation and development of LSS Universal originals for television and streaming platforms. Business Line: Television Production Production Type: Films | Show Series Position: Freelance Project Hire: Production Specific

The First (1st) Assistant Director (AD) role ensures that the cast and crew are working on a schedule. They plan for that daily schedule, as well as the overall production timeline. As such, the 1st AD must have enough knowledge about each department on a film set in order to ensure effective communications.

RESPONSIBILITIES

The AD must be able to:

Storyboards. The 1st AD first breaks the script down into storyboards that reflect how each scene will be shot.

Shooting schedule. Once the director signs off on the storyboards, the first AD creates an overall shooting schedule. The 1st AD clears the shooting schedule with the production manager, line producer, and crew department heads. The AD must ensure that all scenes are appropriately scheduled for when the applicable location, props, and cast are available.

Call sheets. Before each day of shooting, a call sheet is drawn up by the second AD in conjunction with the first AD. During production, it's the first AD's job to make sure that everyone is making their call times and the filming is progressing on schedule.

Calling the roll. During filming, one of the first assistant director's primary responsibilities is what's known as "calling the roll". Calling the roll is when the 1st AD cues the various department heads (including camera operator , key grip , and sound mixer ) to prepare for filming to start.

Liaise with the crew. The 1st AD serves as the go-between for the director and the rest of the crew. If something needs to be communicated in either direction, it generally goes through the first AD.

On-set diplomat. The first AD is also responsible for controlling discipline on the set. If someone is not doing their job effectively or there are conflicts on set, it is the first AD's job to resolve the situation. This may require taking disciplinary action or changing personnel when appropriate.

Safety. Safety is a priority on any film set and the first AD must also ensure that all health and safety standards are met. Each department has different precautions to ensure that cast and crew members aren't in danger. The first AD oversees each department and is ultimately responsible for ensuring that each department head is maintaining a safe workspace.

DESIRED QUALIFICATIONS

Previous experience as production assistants or runners

5+ years working in the video production/film industry as a cinematographer.

Ability to multi-task and delegate

Good sense for organization and planning

Strong attention to detail

Basic knowledge and understanding of all the various departments found on a film set.

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