Australia is known for its stunning landscapes, diverse wildlife, and rich culture, but did you know that it is also home to some of the best camera operators in the world? Camera operators are the professionals who capture the moving images that we see on our screens, whether it is a news report, a documentary, a movie, or a TV show. They are responsible for controlling the movements, the angles, the focus, and the composition of the camera, and for collaborating with the directors, the producers, and the cinematographers to create the desired visual effects. Camera operators are the authors of the moving image, using technical and artistic expertise to create moving images that tell the story through light, shadow and composition1.
But what makes Australian camera operators stand out from the rest? Here are some of the reasons why Australian camera operators are the best in the world:
1. They are highly skilled and experienced
Australian camera operators are highly skilled and experienced in their craft, thanks to the rigorous training and education they receive, and the diverse and challenging projects they work on. Many Australian camera operators have formal qualifications in film, television, or media production, and they also learn from the best mentors and peers in the industry. They are members of the Australian Cinematographers Society (ACS), a not-for-profit company that was formed in 1958 for the purpose of providing a forum for cinematographers to further develop their skills through mutual co-operation1. The ACS also organises awards, events, workshops, and publications to recognise and promote excellence in cinematography.
Australian camera operators also have a wealth of experience in working on different types of productions, genres, formats, and platforms, both locally and internationally. They have worked on news, documentaries, sports, commercials, music videos, dramas, comedies, animations, and more, for cinema, television, streaming, and online media. They have also worked in various locations and environments, from the urban to the rural, from the tropical to the arctic, from the studio to the field. They have adapted to different technologies, equipment, and techniques, from the analogue to the digital, from the handheld to the aerial, from the conventional to the innovative. They have faced and overcome various challenges, such as tight deadlines, low budgets, harsh weather, difficult terrain, and safety risks.
2. They are creative and versatile
Australian camera operators are not only skilled and experienced, but also creative and versatile. They have a keen eye for aesthetics, a strong sense of storytelling, and a flair for innovation. They are able to create stunning, engaging, and effective moving images that suit the purpose, the content, and the audience of the production. They are also able to work with different styles, formats, and genres, and to switch between them seamlessly. They can handle different types of cameras, lenses, lights, and accessories, and to use them to their full potential. They can also work with different crew members, directors, and clients, and to communicate and collaborate with them effectively.
Australian camera operators are also constantly learning and experimenting with new technologies, techniques, and trends, and to incorporate them into their work. They are not afraid to try new things, to challenge themselves, and to push the boundaries of their craft. They are always looking for ways to improve their skills, to expand their knowledge, and to enhance their creativity.
3. They are diverse and inclusive
Australian camera operators are also diverse and inclusive, reflecting the multicultural and multitalented nature of the Australian society. They come from different backgrounds, cultures, genders, ages, and perspectives, and they bring their unique experiences, insights, and values to their work. They are also respectful, supportive, and collaborative with their colleagues, clients, and audiences, and they celebrate and embrace diversity and inclusion in their industry and in their society.
Australian camera operators are also committed to developing and diversifying their workforce, and to creating more opportunities and pathways for aspiring and emerging camera operators, especially for women and underrepresented groups. They are supported by the ACS, which has conducted a landmark study on the Australian camera workforce development and diversity, and has made recommendations to address the issues and challenges facing the industry, such as gender inequality, discrimination, bullying, sexual harassment, and workplace violence1. The ACS also provides mentoring, networking, and advocacy programs to support and empower its members, and to foster a culture of excellence, professionalism, and collegiality.
Conclusion
Australian camera operators are the best in the world, because they are highly skilled, creative, versatile, diverse, and inclusive. They have the technical and artistic expertise, the experience and knowledge, the passion and innovation, and the respect and collaboration that make them excel in their craft. They are the authors of the moving image, and they create moving images that move us.
