What Does the 1st AC Do?

1st AC, also known as a focus puller, is responsible for maintaining (or pulling) focus on the subject or action being filmed. The 1st AC must get the right lens for the shot and change the focus distance settings as the subject moves around in a scene or as the focus changes from one subject to another within the same frame. The 1st AC has one of the most difficult jobs on set as any errors made in focus cannot always be fixed in post-production editing.

The 1st AC is one of the technical arms of the DP and they do not make any key creative decisions. A good understanding of cameras, optics, and film behavior is required as well as the ability to lift heavy film cameras.

1st ACs work closely with camera operators, dolly grips, and crane operators, who provide feedback to the 1st AC about whether or not the focus was set up properly in a shoot. From initial blocking, the 1st AC creates reference marks and calculates the various focus settings needed based on the actors’ movements and standing positions. Then, during rehearsal, the 1st AC and the camera operator work together to practice their shots and verify that the equipment and settings have been set up correctly based on the initial blocking.

The 1st AC is also responsible for building cameras by getting all camera equipment and accessories (such as batteries, media cards, lenses, filters, etc.) ready for filming each day based on the shots needed. They are also responsible for cleaning and packing everything up at the end of the day. On larger productions, a 2nd AC or Camera PA / Trainee may also be used to help the 1st AC with these responsibilities.

In Nevada, we have many professional camera assistants who have worked on such major productions as Jason Bourne, Sleepless, Ultimate Fighter, Fearless, The Trust, and more. If you are looking for professional 1st ACs for your next project, check out our online Nevada Production Directory for a list of camera assistants in Nevada or drop by our office and pick up a free printed directory!

If you are a professional camera assistant in Nevada and are not yet listed in our Nevada Production Directory, you can learn more about how to sign up for the NPD here.

Bonus Video

Check out these tips on how to be a good 1st AC:

“Tips to be a Good 1st AC” by The Slanted Lens

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