SKSCFP3 Maintain film cameras

Overview 

This Standard is about the on-going maintenance of film cameras.  This applies to film cameras.  This could apply to any type of production including feature films, TV dramas, commercials, documentaries, sports coverage, outside broadcast and live or stage events. 

It includes lubricating film advance mechanisms, cleaning user accessible parts, testing collimation and tracking, removing jammed film, identifying malfunctions and broken components, performing remedial action and liaising with other people when you cannot resolve problems.

This Standard is relevant to those working as lens engineers or camera engineers.

 

Performance Criteria

You must be able to:

  1. lubricate relevant components of film advance mechanisms
  2. clean all user accessible parts of film cameras
  3. test lens collimation and tracking in line with manufacturers’ instructions
  4. remove, and resolve any problems related to, jammed film
  5. use appropriate information to identify any mechanical or electrical malfunctions and broken components
  6. perform remedial action to resolve malfunctions or other problems that are within the limits of your expertise
  7. liaise with relevant people about any malfunctions or other problems that you cannot resolve

 

Knowledge and Understanding

You need to know and understand: 

  1. key characteristics of current film cameras, lenses and attachments and major obsolescent models
  2. current film gauges
  3. camera handling techniques and the implications of damage to cameras and film
  4. cleaning and maintenance procedures and products for the camera equipment in use
  5. components of film advance mechanisms that need lubricating including the movement, pull- down claw and register pin
  6. how to identify and remove the cause of jammed film
  7. current film camera and lens field maintenance techniques
  8. indicators of mechanical or electrical malfunctions and broken components and how to rectify them
  9. the role of others involved and when to liaise with them including directors of photography, camera operators, directors and 2nd camera assistants
  10. the requirements of relevant health and safety legislation and procedures
  11. how to store cameras and lenses safely and securely
  12. any special requirements to ensure the safety and security of equipment when left unattended
  13. relevant manufacturers’ instructions for the equipment in use