SKSDT1 Prepare digital image work for productions

Overview 

This Standard is about preparing for digital image work on productions.  This could apply to any type of production including feature films, TV dramas, commercials, documentaries, sports coverage, outside broadcast and live or stage events. 

This includes identifying creative and technical requirements and any factors that may impact upon the effective management and storage of data, taking location and environmental issues into account, including transportation of kit and access to power sources. It also includes creating a workflow document to meet agreed deliverables in liaison with the camera and post production teams.

This standard is for digital imaging technicians (DITs) preparing to work on productions.

Performance Criteria

You must be able to:

1. identify requirements and required resources for DIT work from relevant production paperwork
2. communicate with appropriate people about the job requirements to ensure production demands can be met
3. plan work to take account of shooting formats, location, environment and any other logistical issues
4. liaise with appropriate people to ensure the availability of appropriate equipment and resources
5. source any additional equipment and software from appropriate suppliers when requested
6. advise appropriate people in production about technical issues which may impact upon productions
7. offer technical solutions which can enhance productions
8. create workflow documents with clearly marked deliverables
9. liaise with camera and post production teams about workflow at appropriate times
10. distribute workflow documents to appropriate people and departments
11. observe standard set etiquette and agreed production working practices at all times
12. make sure you are familiar with kit and software specified for productions
13. check the availability of appropriate power sources in consultation with electrical departments
14. confirm that equipment is fit for purpose and in appropriate condition prior to production
15. check that effective and appropriate archiving systems are in place prior to production
16. use black out tents to create a colour critical environments
17. handle, pack and transport equipment in a safe, secure and appropriate manner

Knowldge and Understanding

You need to know and understand:

1. the production and post production processes and people, including cameras, editing, conforming, grading and VFX
2. how to break down a script and understand the impact have on DIT work of script , production requirements, shooting formats, location and environment
3. how to assess locations for any specific logistical issues pertaining to them shooting formats and factors which may necessitate additional considerations, such as stereoscopic or anarmorphic shoots
4. how to identify and manage resources to meet production needs, including hiring of additional staff and equipment when necessary
5. the role of others involved and when to liaise with them
6. why it is important to work alongside camera professionals in a diplomatic and professional manner
7. appropriate power sources for your work
8. how to source and erect black out tents
9. how to work with a variety of electronic and computer equipment
10. how to maintain and update equipment regularly to reflect changes to software and formats
11. how to keep abreast of current and emerging technologies to kit and software
12. current software packages and their uses
13. how to access information about navigating unknown software
14. where to source equipment and software
15. insurance requirements for equipment and software
16. how to confirm that equipment is in good condition
17. how to offer creative solutions through technical knowledge
18. how to communicate creative ideas and any arising issues and needs
19. sources of information on the purpose and suitability of chosen camera equipment and the number of cameras to be used
20. handling, packaging and storage requirements for equipment
21. formats and contents of workflow documents