SkillsUSA Digital Cinema Practice Test

In the camera department, duties are split between the assistants to support smooth shooting. The person who assists the 1st AC and handles the slate is the 2nd Assistant Camera. The 1st AC mainly focuses on maintaining camera readiness and pulling focus during takes, while the 2nd AC takes care of slate duties—showing the take, scene, and other info on the clapperboard and clapping to create a sync point for the audio and video in post. That slate cue is essential for editing and sound syncing, so having the 2nd AC handle it fits the flow of the crew. The gaffer oversees lighting and the sound mixer handles audio, so neither of them would operate the slate.