Dave Chameides, an A Cam/Steadicam op with 35 years experience, 2 Emmy’s, an SOC Operator of the Year award for his work on Ozark, and a seriously cool collection of international toothpicks, brings you The Op, a podcast about Operating and the Art of Visual Storytelling. Geared towards all storytellers (Camera Operators, DPs, Directors, Writers, and beyond) both young and old, every other week the Op will bring you a new interview with some of the best artists the film industry has to offer.
The Op podcast is a fantastic and comprehensive resource for anyone interested in camera operating and the film industry as a whole. Whether you are just starting out or have years of experience, there is something to learn and be inspired by in each episode. The conversations are in-depth and provide valuable insights from seasoned professionals in the field.
One of the best aspects of this podcast is the emphasis on camera operating. It delves deep into the craft, exploring techniques, challenges, and personal experiences of some of the most talented individuals in the industry. Whether it's learning about different shooting styles or hearing behind-the-scenes stories, there is a wealth of knowledge to be gained from these discussions. Additionally, the host does a great job of facilitating engaging conversations that allow guests to share their expertise and perspectives.
Another aspect that sets this podcast apart is its focus on storytelling. It goes beyond technical discussions and explores how camera operating contributes to the overall narrative of a film or TV show. This broader perspective provides valuable insights for aspiring filmmakers and helps listeners understand the importance of visual storytelling within the industry.
As for possible improvements, one minor downside may be that some episodes focus more on personal anecdotes than technical aspects. While these stories can be entertaining and insightful in their own right, those looking for more technical content may find themselves wanting more depth in certain episodes.
In conclusion, The Op podcast is an essential listen for anyone interested in camera operating or filmmaking in general. It offers valuable insights, inspiring conversations, and a deep dive into the craft. Whether you're a beginner or a seasoned pro, there's something to learn from each episode. Highly recommended!
David and I discuss starting out in 8mm film, reading every back issue of the ASC magazine, The Marvelous Mrs. Maisel, Twin Falls Idaho, and so much more. David's IMDB To see pictures and things we discussed in todays episode check out the podcast page of The Op. Please check us out on the web and instagram and like us and review us if you enjoyed the episode. Theme Music - Tatyana Richaud Theme Mix - Charles Papert
Olivia and I discuss cookies, acting and the camera operator, The Postman, The Sixth Sense, and so much more. ***TRIGGER WARNING** - There is a discussion of a sexual assault in this episode at the 54 minute mark with a disclaimer just before that portion of the podcast. Olivia's IMDB Bystander Training At Right To Be Check out Filmscape Chicago To see pictures and things we discussed in todays episode check out the podcast page of The Op. Please check us out on the web and instagram and like us and review us if you enjoyed the episode. Theme Music - Tatyana Richaud Theme Mix - Charles Papert
Rob and I talk about turning down Forrest Gump, the pros and cons of animatics, Crouching Tiger Hidden Dragon, Inception, and so much more. Rob's IMDB Check out Filmscape Chicago To see pictures and things we discussed in todays episode check out the podcast page of The Op. Please check us out on the web and instagram and like us and review us if you enjoyed the episode. Theme Music - Tatyana Richaud Theme Mix - Charles Papert
Cheli thanks a teacher who taught her how to tell stories.
Cheli and I talk about focus pulling without rehearsals, making game day decisions, Joker Folie a Deux, Team American World Police, and so much more. Cheli's IMDB RIP Norman Parker. Bystander Intervention Training To see pictures and things we discussed in todays episode check out the podcast page of The Op. Please check us out on the web and instagram and like us and review us if you enjoyed the episode. Theme Music - Tatyana Richaud Theme Mix - Charles Papert
Gary and I discuss how to work with a dolly grip who doesn't only speaks Thai, what to do as a B camera operator, Good Morning Vietnam, Quantam of Solace, and much much more. Gary's IMDB To see pictures and things we discussed in todays episode check out the podcast page of The Op. Please check us out on the web and instagram and like us and review us if you enjoyed the episode. Theme Music - Tatyana Richaud Theme Mix - Charles Papert
Join us as we discuss what operators can offer actors, the DP/Director/OPerator Relationship, 1917, and so much more. Pete's IMDB To see pictures and things we discussed in todays episode check out the podcast page of The Op. Please check us out on the web and instagram and like us and review us if you enjoyed the episode. Theme Music - Tatyana Richaud Theme Mix - Charles Papert
Brooks and I discuss working with the incredible John Toll, starting out in music videos, Tropic Thunder, fighting back after an accident and so much more. Brooks IMDB To see pictures and things we discussed in todays episode check out the podcast page of The Op. Please check us out on the web and instagram and like us and review us if you enjoyed the episode. Theme Music - Tatyana Richaud Theme Mix - Charles Papert
Des and I discuss operating a remote head through an eyepiece, working with Tim Burton, Beetlejuice 1 and 2, My Left Foot, and so much more. Des' IMDB For more links, pics and videos, check out the page for this episode on The Op. Please check us out on the web and instagram and like us if you enjoyed the episode. Theme Music - Tatyana Richaud Theme Mix - Charles Papert
Liz and I discuss the physical issues of operating and how you can protect your self, learning to work smarter and not harder, No Country for Old Men, Teenage Mutant Ninja Turtles, and so much more. Liz's IMDB Liz's Website Liz's Instagram Keir Dullea before/after NYTimes Air Hockey IG post NYTimes digital Air Hockey article Stunt Demo Physics of Handheld Positions w/ recommendations Why Stretching Isn't Always the Answer to Feeling Tight Hruska Clinic Shoe List From Liz: A few notes about the shoe list. At the bottom of page two they have recommendations for individuals with limited big toe extension. Worth noting that the ever-popular Hokas are ONLY for people with limited big toe extension, meaning, for people who wear them without this issue they can absolutely be causing other problems--low back pain, etc. I believe the shoe list is updated twice/year to stay current with what models are available. Also, year to year as the shoes are updated they may no longer meet the criteria so it's good for people to know that just because a shoe is on the list one year does not mean the next year it will still be a good choice. To see pictures and things we discussed in todays episode check out the podcast page of The Op. Please check us out on the web and instagram and like us and review us if you enjoyed the episode. Theme Music - Tatyana Richaud Theme Mix - Charles Papert
Alex and I discuss the art of the long take, growing up as a film geek, what he looks for in an operator, West Wing, Game of Thrones, and so much more. Alex's IMDB For more links, pics and videos, check out the page for this episode on The Op. Please check us out on the web and instagram and like us if you enjoyed the episode. Theme Music - Tatyana Richaud Theme Mix - Charles Papert
Larry and I discuss justifying camera moves, working with the extras, GoodFellas, Raising Cain, working with Martin Scorcese and Brian DePalma and so much more. Larry's Amazing IMDB Larry's Website Check out Larry's Breakdowns of shots from Carlitos Way, Bonfire of the Vanities, and Raising Cain For more links, pics and videos, check out the page for this episode on The Op. Please check us out on the web and instagram and like us if you enjoyed the episode. Theme Music - Tatyana Richaud Theme Mix - Charles Papert
Jan and I discuss the role of the sound mixer, getting your start as a roadie/opening act, Happyish, Nurse Jackie, the joys of mixing a middle school play and so much more. Jan's IMDB To see pictures and things we discussed in todays episode check out the podcast page of The Op. Please check us out on the web and instagram and like us and review us if you enjoyed the episode. Theme Music - Tatyana Richaud Theme Mix - Charles Papert
Listen in as Roy describes one of the most amazing introductions to this industry that I've ever heard. We'll talk about James Wong Howe, Harry Stradling, Ansel Adams, Party of Five, Cop Rock and so much more. Roy's IMDB To see pictures and things we discussed in todays episode check out the podcast page of The Op. Please check us out on the web and instagram and like us and review us if you enjoyed the episode. Theme Music - Tatyana Richaud Theme Mix - Charles Papert
Matthew and Don worked together on the show Perry Mason and established an amazing connection. They are both incredible storytellers who excel at what they do and on todays podcast we have a discussion about the operator/actor relationship and what it looks like when it works this well. Matthews IMDB Dons IMDB To see pictures and things we discussed in todays episode check out the podcast page of The Op. Please check us out on the web and instagram and like us and review us if you enjoyed the episode. Theme Music - Tatyana Richaud Theme Mix - Charles Papert
Join us as we discuss discovering that there was an operator at 12 years old, forgetting to turn the camera off, Sneakers, State and Main, and so much more. Henry's IMDB Henry's Blog To see pictures and things we discussed in todays episode check out the podcast page of The Op. Please check us out on the web and instagram and like us and review us if you enjoyed the episode. Theme Music - Tatyana Richaud Theme Mix - Charles Papert
Join us as we discuss shooting for the edit, working with the boom operator, Saltburn, Outlander, No Time To Die, and so much more. Ossie's IMDB To see pictures and things we discussed in todays episode check out the podcast page of The Op. Please check us out on the web and instagram and like us and review us if you enjoyed the episode. Theme Music - Tatyana Richaud Theme Mix - Charles Papert
Join as we discuss always having a "back pocket" shot, what a DP looks for in an operator, Idiocracy, Manhattan, The Doors, and so much more. Jeff's IMDB To see pictures and things we discussed in todays episode check out the podcast page of The Op. Please check us out on the web and instagram and like us and review us if you enjoyed the episode. Theme Music - Tatyana Richaud Theme Mix - Charles Papert
Join us as we talk about working with Stanley Kubrick, when Bette David requests you by name, The Shining, 2001 A Space Odyssey, working with David Lean, and so much more. As a bonus, we shot video of this interview and it can be found here. Kelvin's IMDB To see pictures and things we discussed in todays episode check out the podcast page of The Op. Please check us out on the web and instagram and like us and review us if you enjoyed the episode. Theme Music - Tatyana Richaud Theme Mix - Charles Papert
Greg and I discuss the art of focus pulling, the importance of character, Joker Folie A Deux, Interstellar, and so much more. Greg's IMDB Greg's Camera Assistant Training Focus on Film To see pictures and things we discussed in todays episode check out the podcast page of The Op. Please check us out on the web and instagram and like us and review us if you enjoyed the episode. Theme Music - Tatyana Richaud Theme Mix - Charles Papert Check out the sponsor of todays episode, Custom Camera Cables, for all your BNC and camera cable needs!!!
Join us as we discuss the importance of hindsight, taking a break from "the biz", The Marvelous Mrs. Maisel, Third Watch, your first time driving the camera Uhaul truck in NYC and so much more. Niknaz's IMDB To see pictures and things we discussed in todays episode check out the podcast page of The Op. Please check us out on the web and instagram and like us and review us if you enjoyed the episode. Theme Music - Tatyana Richaud Theme Mix - Charles Papert Check out the sponsor of todays episode, Custom Camera Cables, for all your BNC and camera cable needs!!!
Listen in as Charlie and I talk about what directors look for in an operator, the joy of working with great crews, The Work, The Battle of the Network Stars, Hill St. Blues, ER and much much more. Charlie's IMDb To see pictures and things we discussed in todays episode check out the podcast page of The Op. Please check us out on the web and instagram and like us and review us if you enjoyed the episode. Theme Music - Tatyana Richaud Theme Mix - Charles Papert
Doc and I discuss painted lawns, the problems with having brand new cases, Field of Dreams, Sneakers, and much more. Doc's IMDB To see pictures and things we discussed in todays episode check out the podcast page of The Op. Please check us out on the web and instagram and like us and review us if you enjoyed the episode. Theme Music - Tatyana Richaud Theme Mix - Charles Papert
Join us as we discuss getting up to speed on the wheels, long continuous shots, The Marvelous Mrs. Maisel, Day of the Fight, dendrochronology and so much more!!!! Make sure to check out the amazing Breakdown that Jim did for a huge oner on Mrs. Maisel!!! Jim's IMDB To see pictures and things we discussed in todays episode check out the podcast page of The Op. Please check us out on the web and instagram and like us and review us if you enjoyed the episode. Theme Music - Tatyana Richaud Theme Mix - Charles Papert
Loren and I discuss watching an actors process, peaking as a focus puller, Animal Kingdom, Heroes, not listing to William Fraker's advice, and so much more. Loren's IMDB To see pictures and things we discussed in todays episode check out the podcast page of The Op. Please check us out on the web and instagram and like us and review us if you enjoyed the episode. Theme Music - Tatyana Richaud Theme Mix - Charles Papert
Join us as we discuss the work of the Union, what to look for in a good operator, Field of Dreams, Sneakers, ABC After School Specials and so much more. John's IMDB The Local 600 video that John made on the Dangers of Unsafe Hours To see pictures and things we discussed in todays episode check out the podcast page of The Op. Please check us out on the web and instagram and like us and review us if you enjoyed the episode. Theme Music - Tatyana Richaud Theme Mix - Charles Papert
Join us as we talk about the Local 600 Trainee Program, operating your first shot on the wheels, The Perfect Storm, Midnight Run, Gordon Willis's apple box, and so much more. Dan's IMDB Watch Dan's Breakdown of a shot from Air Force One To see pictures and things we discussed in todays episode check out the podcast page of The Op. Please check us out on the web and instagram and like us and review us if you enjoyed the episode. Theme Music - Tatyana Richaud Theme Mix - Charles Papert
Join us as we talk about the art of silent communication, the importance of maintaining healthy fear, how to be a successful camera PA and so much more. Shannon's IMDB To see pictures and things we discussed in todays episode check out the podcast page of The Op. Please check us out on the web and instagram and like us and review us if you enjoyed the episode. Theme Music - Tatyana Richaud Theme Mix - Charles Papert
Join us as we talk to the guy who quite literally wrote the book on Steadicam operating and discuss his career as an operator, teaching over 200 Steadicam courses, As Good As It Gets, The Apostle, and so much more. Jerry's IMDB Jerry's Website To see pictures and things we discussed in todays episode check out the podcast page of The Op. Please check us out on the web and instagram and like us and review us if you enjoyed the episode. Theme Music - Tatyana Richaud Theme Mix - Charles Papert
Terence pays tribute to Director/Director of Photography Richard Thorpe.
Join us as we discuss loving the work, Aliens, ER, The Princess Bride, the boom op with the pink shorts and so much more!!!! Terrence's IMDB To see pictures and things we discussed in todays episode check out the podcast page of The Op. Please check us out on the web and instagram and like us and review us if you enjoyed the episode. Theme Music - Tatyana Richaud Theme Mix - Charles Papert
Suzy and I discuss why you should never have a walkie in the makeup trailer, having your passport confiscated by Russian officials, Pirates of The Caribbean, Key and Peele, Boogie Nights, and so much more. To see pictures and things we discussed in todays episode check out the podcast page of The Op. Please check us out on the web and instagram and like us and review us if you enjoyed the episode. Theme Music - Tatyana Richaud Theme Mix - Charles Papert
A Q&A in front of film students at Mt St. Mary's University on Los Angeles Ca. To see pictures and things we discussed in todays episode check out the podcast page of The Op. Please check us out on the web and instagram and like us and review us if you enjoyed the episode. Theme Music - Tatyana Richaud Theme Mix - Charles Papert
Greg and I discuss the steadicam lessons, growing up on set, Daddy Day Care, Flight of the Phoenix, paying your dues, and so much more. Greg's IMDB Steadicam Lessons Website @steadicamlessons To see pictures and things we discussed in todays episode check out the podcast page of The Op. Please check us out on the web and instagram and like us and review us if you enjoyed the episode. Theme Music - Tatyana Richaud Theme Mix - Charles Papert
Adeshola Adigun talks about one of the people who changed his life.
Adeshola and I talk about what having an awesome name, being a rising operator in the world of social media, the ZeeGee, shooting onstage with Kendrick Lamar all over the world, and so much more. Adeshola's IMDB Adeshola's Instagram @steadishola Greg Smith's Steadicam Lessons To see pictures and things we discussed in todays episode check out the podcast page of The Op. Please check us out on the web and instagram and like us and review us if you enjoyed the episode. Theme Music - Tatyana Richaud Theme Mix - Charles Papert
Listen in as we talk about being part of the camera family, working with Roger Deakins and the Coen Brothers, True Grit, No Country for Old Men, trusting your gut, and so much more. Liza's IMDB To see pictures and things we discussed in todays episode check out the podcast page of The Op. Please check us out on the web and instagram and like us and review us if you enjoyed the episode. Theme Music - Tatyana Richaud Theme Mix - Charles Papert
Mike and I talk about pulling focus for Vilmos Zsigmond, Close Encounters, Dead Men Don't Wear Plaid, starting out digging ditches on the labor gang and so much more. Mike's IMDB To see pictures and things we discussed in todays episode (including Bono's crane ride) check out the podcast page of The Op. Please check us out on the web and instagram and like us and review us if you enjoyed the episode. Theme Music - Tatyana Richaud Theme Mix - Charles Papert
In September of 2024 Danny Bishop and Dave Chameides held a Q and A during an ACO/GTC event in London, England. Hear them discuss the reality of working in TV and film as camera operators, the ups, downs, and all sorts of other stuff. Danny's IMDB Dave's IMDB To see pictures and things we discussed in todays episode check out the podcast page of The Op. Please check us out on the web and instagram and like us and review us if you enjoyed the episode. Theme Music - Tatyana Richaud Theme Mix - Charles Papert
On todays episode we talk about Live TV, Awards Show Galore, riding on a crane with Bono, learning how to operate a pedestal cam, and so much more. Dave's IMDB To see pictures and things we discussed in todays episode (including Bono's crane ride) check out the podcast page of The Op. Please check us out on the web and instagram and like us and review us if you enjoyed the episode. Theme Music - Tatyana Richaud Theme Mix - Charles Papert
Lisa and I discuss learning at a rental house, the importance of not over explaining things, Dear Edward, No Hard Feelings, starting out as a steadicam student and then teaching new steadicam students and much much more. Lisa's IMDB To see pictures and things we discussed in todays episode check out the podcast page of The Op. Please check us out on the web and instagram and like us and review us if you enjoyed the episode. Theme Music - Tatyana Richaud Theme Mix - Charles Papert
Danny Bishop interviews Cinematographer Greig Fraser ASC ACS and A Camera & Steadicam Operator Jason Ewart ACO about their work together on the epic Dune Part 2. Special thanks to the ACO (Association of Camera Operators) for allowing us to share their work. Please check us out on the web and instagram and like us and review us if you enjoyed the episode. Theme Music - Tatyana Richaud Theme Mix - Charles Papert
Brian and I talk about the importance of having a mentor, moving up through the ranks for the camera department, the beginnings of the RED camera, and much much more. Brian's IMDB To see pictures and things we discussed in todays episode check out the podcast page of The Op. Please check us out on the web and instagram and like us and review us if you enjoyed the episode. Theme Music - Tatyana Richaud Theme Mix - Charles Papert
To celebrate the 50th anniversary of the creation of the Steadicam, Tiffen held a talk with Steadicam Inventor Garrett Brown to hear stories from throughout his career. Garrett is a master storyteller and has lived a life full of stories worth telling. A fantastic listen. To watch video of the discussion, click here. (Highly recommended if you'd like to see "The Look".) Please check us out on the web and instagram and like us and review us if you enjoyed the episode. Theme Music - Tatyana Richaud Theme Mix - Charles Papert
Getting your first film job in a bar, learning how to be a camera operator on the first job you ever had being a camera operator, The Bear, Eighth Grade, and so much more, this episode has it all. Gary's IMDB To see pictures and things we discussed in todays episode check out the podcast page of The Op. Please check us out on the web and instagram and like us and review us if you enjoyed the episode. Theme Music - Tatyana Richaud Theme Mix - Charles Papert
A great discussion where we talk about the difference between shooting digital and film, The West Wing, The Handmaids Tale, the greatest acting note ever given to anyone, and much much more. Bradley's IMDB The Emotional Stuntman The West Wing Walk And Talk We Discuss To see pictures and things we discussed in todays episode check out the podcast page of The Op. Please check us out on the web and instagram and like us and review us if you enjoyed the episode. Theme Music - Tatyana Richaud Theme Mix - Charles Papert
Sean and I discuss how to shoot a riot, trying something new on every shoot, Hunger, The Place Beyond The Pines, Marvels, and so much more. Sean's IMDB To see pictures and things we discussed in todays episode check out the podcast page of The Op. Please check us out on the web and instagram and like us and review us if you enjoyed the episode. Theme Music - Tatyana Richaud Theme Mix - Charles Papert