Camera for Pilot

BlockReel; Detroit (MI); On-site; USD 92,000 - 148,000; Full time

Job summary

BlockReel in Detroit is seeking a senior First Assistant Camera (1st AC) to join a gritty narrative pilot. You will pull focus with precision, manage camera builds and maintenance, and oversee lens changes, ensuring smooth operation of all camera department gear on set.

Proficiency with ARRI/RED and a solid reel are essential. The role requires a calm demeanor under pressure and extensive experience on narrative projects.

Qualifications

• Extensive experience as 1st AC on narrative projects.
• Strong eye for focus pull and lens changes.
• Proficient with professional cinema cameras (ARRI/RED) and accessories.

Responsibilities

• Pull focus with precision and consistency.
• Maintain and manage camera builds, setup, and maintenance.
• Oversee lens changes and all camera department gear on set.
• Ensure smooth operation of camera equipment and on-set workflow.

Skills

Focus pulling

Camera maintenance

Calm under pressure

Attention to detail

Tools

ARRI

RED

Lenses

Camera accessories

Job description

An independent production is seeking a senior First Assistant Camera (1st AC) for an upcoming narrative pilot. This project is a gritty, character-driven drama with a grounded, realistic tone, exploring themes of urban resilience. We're aiming for a compelling visual style that feels authentic and immersive, and we need a top-tier 1st AC to help us achieve that. Your primary responsibilities will include pulling focus with precision, managing camera builds and maintenance, overseeing lens changes, and ensuring the smooth operation of all camera department equipment on set. We're looking for someone with extensive experience on narrative projects, a keen eye for detail, and a calm demeanor under pressure. You should be proficient with professional cinema cameras (e.g., ARRI, RED) and have a strong understanding of various lenses and camera accessories. A solid reel showcasing your focus pulling skills is essential. This is a demanding but rewarding role, working with a passionate team. We anticipate approximately 7-10 shoot days, likely starting around October 11, 2026, with typical 10-12 hour days. Compensation is $500-800/day, depending on experience. Production will provide camera and lenses, but your preferred toolkit for accessories is a plus. Local hires to Detroit, MI are strongly preferred.

Budget Range

$500-800/day