Application
This unit describes the skills and knowledge required to set up focal points and pull focus on cameras used for a wide range of screen productions.
It applies to individuals responsible for focusing and refocusing the camera lens as actors move within the frame of each shot. They pull focus according to a set of complex marks placed on the set, and by using their instincts and experience of judging focal lengths.
No licensing, legislative or certification requirements apply to this unit at the time of publication.
Elements and Performance Criteria
ELEMENT | PERFORMANCE CRITERIA |
Elements describe the essential outcomes. | Performance criteria describe the performance needed to demonstrate achievement of the element. |
1. Prepare to pull focus | 1.1 Liaise with production personnel and interpret and confirm focus requirements for shots 1.2 Discuss with relevant personnel use of equipment, accessories and techniques to achieve creative outcomes required of shots 1.3 Mount equipment according to specifications and requirements of production personnel 1.4 Confirm equipment is compatible and positioned safely to avoid interference with camera operations at locations |
2. Calculate focus points | 2.1 Measure and mark focus points to plot the focus pull 2.2 Verify points using tape measure or eye, and ensure split focus covers the depth of field requirements 2.3 Set and change focus to meet production requirements in consultation with relevant production personnel |
3. Pull focus during productions | 3.1 Liaise with relevant production personnel throughout shoots 3.2 Check equipment calibration and adjust as necessary 3.3 Minimise movements to camera while pulling focus 3.4 Operate follow focus unit to predetermined points, within required timing of shots 3.5 Estimate and execute necessary adjustments to predetermined focus points to achieve required image 3.6 Provide feedback to relevant production personnel on completion of shots, noting problems that may need to be resolved 3.7 Relay information to continuity according to enterprise procedures |
Evidence of Performance
Evidence of the ability to:
discuss methods of achieving creative effects required of shots
calculate and mark focus points
keep camera steady while pulling focus
pull focus on a range of camera equipment and accessories to achieve required shots, liaising with personnel throughout the shoot.
Note: If a specific volume or frequency is not stated, then evidence must be provided at least once.
Evidence of Knowledge
To complete the unit requirements safely and effectively, the individual must:
outline roles and responsibilities of key film and television crew members
identify typical problems that may arise in the context of pulling focus and briefly describe solutions
explain focus features of a range of cameras and accessories
explain how focus can be affected by the use of different accessories and techniques
outline work health and safety procedures that apply to pulling focus.
Assessment Conditions
Assessment must be conducted in a safe environment where evidence gathered demonstrates consistent performance of typical activities experienced in creative arts industry environments. The assessment environment must include access to:
professional camera equipment
opportunity to demonstrate facility with focal calculations in varied shooting situations
productions that require focus pulling
interaction with others
safety guidelines for the film and television industry.
Assessors of this unit must satisfy the requirements for assessors in applicable vocational educational and training legislation, frameworks and/or standards.
Foundation Skills
This section describes language, literacy, numeracy and employment skills incorporated in the performance criteria that are required for competent performance.
Skill | Performance Criteria | Description |
Reading | 1.1 | Recognises and interprets textual information to determine focus requirements |
Writing | 3.6 | Uses specific and accurate language to complete production documentation |
Oral Communication | 1.1-1.3, 2.3, 3.1, 3.6 | Listens carefully and responds to verbal instructions and creative directions as required Selects and uses appropriate language when providing feedback or instructions |
Numeracy | 2.1-2.3, 3.2 | Uses mathematical formulae to estimate and accurately calculate distances and to judge focal lengths |
Navigate the world of work | 3.7 | Understands and complies with enterprise policies and procedures |
Interact with others | 1.1-1.3, 2.3, 3.1, 3.6 | Works collaboratively with technical experts to achieve desired creative outcomes Uses appropriate communication practices and protocols to seek and provide information |
Get the work done | 1.1-1.4, 2.1-2.3, 3.2-3.6, 3.5 | Plans, assembles and checks for sufficient supply of equipment and conducts required equipment checks Plans and organises tasks, taking responsibility for decisions regarding focus points and pulling focus Anticipates and prevents problems by locating equipment appropriately and using experience to judge focal lengths |
Sectors
Media and Entertainment Production – Camera/Cinematography