The Good Old Days in Film

Can you find me in the picture? 🤣 #throwbackthursday

Today I’d like to take you with me on a little trip back to the late ’70s and early ’80s…when I was just starting out as a second assistant cameraman in the exciting world of film. 🎥✨

One of my earliest gigs was on a TV show called “Nurses,” and boy, was it an unforgettable experience. 😍

Back in those days, shooting on film was the norm, and it brought a certain charm and craftsmanship to the filmmaking process.

Every frame had to be carefully composed and exposed, with the knowledge that there was no instant playback or digital correction.

It was a time when technical precision and attention to detail was everything.

It was a time when practical effects reigned supreme, requiring coordination and precision to achieve the desired results. No digital green screens or CGI shortcuts—everything was done practically, often with jaw-dropping creativity. 🤯

Being a second assistant cameraman was no easy task. I would diligently load film magazines, carefully hand the lenses to and assist the first assistant cameraman in whatever they needed.

It was a hands-on role that demanded concentration, and a keen eye for detail. Every take mattered, and the pressure to get it right was ever-present.

But the satisfaction of seeing a well-executed shot captured on film was worth every ounce of effort. 🎯

As time has passed, technology has evolved, and the film industry has transformed in countless ways. Digital cameras and CGI have revolutionized the way we capture and create stories on set.

And while all this new tech has its benefits, there’s a part of me that looks back fondly on those early years—the era of shooting on film, the practical effects, and the sense of camaraderie that filled every set.

In this corner you can see where my film industry journey began back in the late 70s.

history of film production, A Tale of the Good Old Days in Film — *The New York City corner where it all began*

Just a young production assistant for Jenkins Covington, I landed my first gig here, on the set of a Polaroid sunglasses shoot.

Talk about starting off with a bang! 💥

This Riviera Cafe wasn’t just a backdrop; it was the stage where my passion for film ignited.

From going on coffee runs to assisting the crew, every moment fueled my love for the magic behind the scenes.

It was like stepping into a dream, and I haven’t woken up since.

Years have passed, sets have changed, but that spark still burns bright.

Every project, every challenge, every late-night shoot reminds me of that day at the Riviera Café. ☕

It’s a reminder that the power of film lies not just in the final product, but in the journey, the passion, the people who come together to create something bigger than themselves.

The good old days of the late ’70s and early ’80s hold a special place in my heart. They were formative years that laid the foundation for my career in the film industry. 💙