I started in the Camera Department as an assistant cameraman and stayed in that area for the first 30 years of my career. I’ve shot, I’ve directed and worked in many other departments over the years. My true creative love is directing documentaries and being around people.
Having worked in the film industry for over 40 years (and still going strong!), I have been able to hone my skills as a Video Assist Operator!
Since I have experience as a Director and Cameraman I have reality on what I can do to help them with their creative vision. I can understand the overall idea of what they need and get it done for them. Overall, I’m conscientious of what they are looking for and work hard to provide it.
As a Video Assist Operator I am in tune with what’s happening on set and can roll with any last minute changes that occur.
Since I have worked on many types of shoots I am able to prepare for different situations based on my experience and will usually have additional equipment with me to handle situations that were not thought of beforehand.
For example, recently, we had to set up for an exterior shot where the Director/Cameraman was going up on a lift in harsh sunlight. I carry the Atomos Sumo 19” Monitor/Recorder for this type of situation as it is daylight viewable. It was a good thing I brought it as the onboard monitor could not be seen and the Sumo was very bright. Success!
I also excel in the area of Visual Effects Video Assist. I use Qtake HD software that enables me to do live on set chroma keying. I can key up to two cameras at a time with moving plates if needed. I am always learning the latest tools to enable my clients to see what they need to see and present this to their clients. My latest toy is a Ruckus wifi access point that enables me to broadcast via wifi to an iPad Pro monitor. People love it as they can be close to set and be mobile and they can talk to me and I can talk to them through the iPad.
In closing I am proud to have created LH Video Services. We are a company that provides the highest quality Video Assist Services out there. We offer different video assist packages based on the specific needs of your job, and provide well trained operators to run the gear. We always provide a backup deck, just in case and we can think with the job and what is needed to provide you the best service and technology available.
All jobs are overseen by me. I have personally trained my equipment manager Shaynah who is amazing and always checks the gear in and out to make sure that it’s up to our standards. All my operators are trained in Qtake and understand how to use it. So whether it’s before or on the job my years of experience enable me to help you get what you need done to achieve your vision!
Please Contact me for your next shoot in the New York Area!
Lee Hopp