My Job, An Introduction, part 2 of 7

In my previous post An Introduction to My Job, Part 1 of 7  I said I would share how to successfully tape cables down so they would not be a dangerous tripping hazard.  It is a closely guarded, top-secret business tip, but I will share.  We use Gaff tape for everything.  I am not selling it or making money, just stating my opinion.  The wider tape is a special cable path tape which means it only has glue on the edges.  The center where the cables go is not sticky so it won't stick to the cables.  It is strong enough to hold the cables down without ripping up the carpet, or pulling paint off of the walls and does not leave a sticky residue behind.  This is important when you are working in high-class joints and want invitations to return.

In addition, there are other great uses for rolls of Gaff tape such as coffee cup holders.

Most importantly, it is a fabulous choice when attempting an individual, creative fashion statement.  As a jewelry accessory, it coordinates with any casual work outfit, comes in all colors, even camouflage and will add that special touch to create the perfect look.

Reese making a fashion statement.

Taping down miles of cable so no one trips is an exact science and must be taught to a younger apprentice by an older, more experienced instructor.  

Jim teaching Dustin how to tape multiple cables at once.

It requires detailed instructions which must be peppered with tales of unbelievable imagination and bravado.

"I saw it myself," stated Jim.

"Mom, is Uncle Jim teasing me?" 

Then comes the final inspection by the Great Wise Inspector General, Howard.  We are a relaxed crew and no longer salute.

Howard straightening out a wrinkle.

Some places cannot be taped and other tricks are used to ensure everyone's safety.

After the cables are run, taped down and connected to the cameras, don't expect to sit down, relax and watch the show from a cozy chair.  A comfortable spot is an exception, not the rule - the hard work continues.

Usually, the cameras are placed behind the audience on top of the bleachers or in the back of the room.  They are positioned to avoid blocking anyone's view if possible.

Dustin and Reese

Howard

Doug

This setup required hauling the equipment up to the top of the closed bleachers.  Next, the Inspector General instructed the young folk to "monkey on up".  The janitor offered a ladder for the other crew members, but the monkeys, I mean the young 'uns didn't need it.  It gives new meaning to the expression, "sitting in the nosebleed seats."

This setup required the operator to squeeze in the tight aisle right above the people's heads and work the camera from the side.  There was not enough room to move.  In some auditoriums, the floor is slanted down toward the stage which causes your feet to slide to the front of your shoes.  After a few hours, your toes become numb.  

Sometimes we hide the camera on the back of the stage especially if it is a graduation ceremony.  This allows us to shoot the graduate's face as they receive their diploma.  

Ron hiding inside the library to get a good shot.

This is one of the most difficult setups because the operator is working two cameras at one time.  It requires serious concentration and eye-hand coordination.  Mentally this is taxing because the operator must stay alert.  

"Everybody else is working hard.  Are you going to stand there and take pictures all day?" asked Inspector General.

"Yes, I think I will."  I quipped.

Howard causing trouble.

Next, you get to see the best of all!  ME!  My job.  I sell DVDs.  It requires me to guard the "football which holds the nuclear launch codes."  Jim found the briefcase at a thrift store years ago and had to buy it because it has the letter "J" on the front.  He figured it was made especially for him.

It looks rough because it has taken a beating over the years,  even got burst apart by the bomb squad - really!  We were working at an event in a huge theater.  One of the performing girls had just broken up with her boyfriend and Romeo was mad.  He wanted to get revenge and ruin her evening.  Since he was uninvited to the show and stuck at home alone he decided to call in a bomb threat to close the building.  It worked.  The fire alarm shrieked, I grabbed the cash box, left the briefcase behind and evacuated the building with the audience.  No one was allowed to return until the bomb-sniffing dogs cleared the area.  When we finally returned, the football briefcase was thrown wide open and all of the papers scattered across the lobby like a tornado had hit.  I suppose it did look like a suitcase nuke sitting on the floor under my table.

What about the forlorn Romeo who caused all the ruckus?  Never heard...guess we never will.

This is the inside of the football.  All the launch codes are hidden deep within the pockets where they are safe.  (It's a big secret, don't tell anyone.)  The big note "Take Sign" is there to remind me to take our company sign.  I kept losing it.  Jim got tired of printing new copies so I attached a note to remind me to pack it.  Attention to details is not my strong suit.

This part of my job amazes young children...and creates nostalgia in older adults.  We still take credit cards the old fashioned way, with an imprint machine.  It drives high tech people crazy.  We need to upgrade they say, buy all the expensive equipment then download the apps which can be hacked and only used where wifi is available. We are in places without wifi and the old fashioned way can't be hacked.  It works well for us.

Here I sit looking "official" and sometimes I almost pass for knowledgeable.  The monitor is a live feed from the truck or the rack and it sells better than I ever could.  One close-up of Momma's little one and they rush to buy.    

We take cash, checks, credit cards.

If you think taping cables down was exciting, wait until you see my next post.  The crew shows how to shove everything necessary for a three camera shoot into the back of Jim's jeep. 

My Job, An Introduction, part 3 of 7