What Does the 2nd AC Do?
The 2nd AC, also known as the clapper loader, has many responsibilities that help film production shoots run smoothly. In addition to assisting the 1st AC, below are some of the many other important job duties that a 2nd AC has.
Manage Film Stock and Camera Reports
2nd ACs are responsible for all records regarding film stock. They monitor film stock and order more when needed. They must also load new rolls of film into camera magazines for shooting, which is very important because if the wrong type of film is loaded or if it gets loaded twice, this can cause an expensive shoot to be ruined and waste precious filming time.
2nd ACs are also typically the only people on set who are allowed to physically handle undeveloped negatives. They unload the camera magazines and ensure that the film reaches the lab in perfect condition with correct information on accompanying camera sheets. If the film is handled inappropriately, mislabeled, or stored improperly, this can render a tremendous amount of work lost and unusable.
Operate the Slate / Clapper
Accuracy is of utmost importance in operating the slate for each shot because this is how the picture and sound are synchronized during the editing process. The 2nd AC works with the script supervisor to make sure that all information on the slate is exactly what the editor needs so that continuity can be maintained throughout the production. They also make sure to speak clearly and display the slate at an appropriate distance so that the camera operator does not have to change their focal settings based on a poorly placed slate.
Charge and Change Camera Batteries, Lenses, and Other Accessories
Camera accessories and fully charged camera batteries must always be ready to go at the request of the DP or camera operator so that filming can proceed as efficiently as possible with the least amount of interruptions.
The handling of lenses during lens changes is also the responsibility of the 1st AC and 2nd AC, who must each take great care in making sure that the lenses do not get damaged at any time. During a lens change, the 1st AC hands the lens that is no longer needed to the 2nd AC to wrap and store. Before the 1st AC lets go of the lens, they must receive verbal confirmation from the 2nd AC that they have the lens securely in their possession. This helps protect expensive equipment from having to be replaced if accidentally dropped.
Mark Reference Points for Focus Settings
During blocking rehearsal, the 2nd AC assists the 1st AC by marking actors’ positions with tape. The 1st AC uses the tape marks to measure the various distances and calculate focus settings for specific subjects or actions.
Learn more about the responsibilities of a 2nd AC below:
“What is a 2nd AC? – 3 Things You Should Know” by Film Riot
In Nevada, we have many professional camera assistants who have worked on productions such as Kickboxer 2: Retaliation, Jimmy John’s commercial, Carlos Santana – “Amor Correspondido” music video, and more. If you are looking for professional 2nd 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.