1st AC

The First Assistant Camera (1st AC) is known as the Focus Puller. They are an important part of the Camera Department. They work closely with the Director of Photography (DP), who is their Head of Department (HOD). The on-set hierarchy for the camera department is:

1. Director of Photography (HOD)

2. Camera Operator (optional)

3. 1st AC (focus puller)

4. 2nd AC (clapper loader)

5. 3rd AC (runner) (optional)

The AC will support the DP. This will include setting up and moving the camera; swapping cards and formatting when they return from the DIT; setting place markers for the actors' blocking; operating the camera (when there isn't a camera operator); and - most importantly - racking focus.