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One of those members we feature in this month’s issue is kind enough to refer to me in her interview, and credits me as being a “mentor” who has supported her in her career. I am flattered to think that I may have had a beneficial effect on the career of one so talented as she obviously is. What struck me as I read this was that we seldom really know how much the attention we pay to those who are coming up behind us can mean to them.
One of the things that I have always noted and remarked upon is how truly generous the great cinematographers often are with the attention they give to emerging cinematographers. In the same way that I have seen the most talented assistants, still photographers, operators and others share their experience and wisdom with up-and-comers in their own classifications.
In fact, I believe it could well be one of the best indicators of how secure one of our number may be, how thoroughly he or she shares the knowledge of this craft with potential future competition.
Mentorship is not the only way in which we can give back to this craft that we cherish. Many can and do continue to support this craft through other opportunities offered by the International Cinematographers Guild and ICG Magazine. Speaking of Emerging Cinematographers, Local 600 has long been blessed with the activities of Rob Kosichek, an active, working cinematographer, who has spearheaded the Emerging Cinematographers Showcase each year for as long as it has existed. Because of Rob’s dedication many operators and assistants have made the leap to earn the title we all crave—working cinematographer.
Our National Executive Board and National Officers, myself included, serve without compensation. We do so because we love this craft and this organization, and we want to be part of making it better, stronger and more responsive to the needs of the members of the International Cinematographers Guild.
The activities of people like Robert J Kositchek and the officers and members of the NEB are an example of how we become better when we get involved. They are all a part of the spirit of volunteerism that has been a part of many of my recent communications with the members of Local 600.
We all know what challenges we face. We face producers who would de-value our work just to save a buck. We face economic pressures that drive productions away from our homes. We face technical changes that can bypass our trained workforce, leaving us in the dust as others come from outside to take our work.
Simply put, I am asking all members of Local 600 to become a part of the solution.
There are many ways that members of this Guild can be a part of our resurgence. If you have any ideas on that, I would encourage you to write me about it. You never know, you might just find yourself creating one more way for this Guild to better serve its members.
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Fraternally,
Steven Poster, ASC
National President
International Cinematographers Guild
Local 600 |
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