Camera for Short Film

BlockReel; New York (NY); On-site; USD 91,000 - 137,000; Full time

Job summary

BlockReel seeks a 1st AC for a short film in NYC, starting early October 2026. The role focuses on pulling focus, maintaining camera gear, and supporting the DP on a visually rich dark comedy with surreal elements.

Expect 3 weeks, 10–12 hour days; lunch and transport provided. You should own a follow focus system and basic toolkit; ARRI Mini LF and lenses provided on set. Please share reel and brief cover letter.

Qualifications

• Strong understanding of ARRI/RED camera systems.
• Ability to maintain sharp focus in challenging situations.
• Own a follow focus system and basic camera toolkit.

Responsibilities

• Pull focus during takes and ensure precise framing.
• Maintain camera equipment and lenses; assist with maintenance checks.
• Assist DP with camera setup, blocking, and breakdown of gear.

Skills

Pull focus

Camera systems knowledge

Follow focus equipment

Tools

ARRI Mini LF experience

RED camera systems

Lenses management

Job description

We are seeking a 1st AC to join our independent production, starting early October 2026. This role is crucial for ensuring our camera operations run smoothly and efficiently from day one. Our short film is a dark comedy, blending surreal elements with a grounded, intimate story about an artist's existential crisis. We're aiming for a visually rich, slightly off-kilter aesthetic that relies heavily on precise camera movement and focus. You'll be responsible for pulling focus, maintaining camera equipment, managing lenses, and assisting the DP with setup and breakdown. This is a fantastic opportunity for someone looking to contribute their skills to a compelling narrative and gain experience on a dynamic set. While any experience level is welcome, a strong understanding of camera systems, particularly ARRI or RED, and the ability to maintain sharp focus in challenging situations are highly valued. Please have your own follow focus system and basic camera toolkit; we will provide the main camera package (likely ARRI Mini LF) and lenses. The shoot is anticipated to be about 3 weeks of work, primarily 10-12 hour days. Lunch and transportation to/from set within NYC will be provided. Please include a brief cover letter outlining your relevant experience and a link to your reel, if applicable.

Budget Range

$2000-3000/week