Projectionists require skills in both mechanical and digital media. They inspect and maintain equipment and synchronize visuals and sound. Formal training is found on the job, and experience in audiovisual equipment helps. Unionization is common, and apprenticeships can lead to union positions.
As with many careers, there are several ways to become a projectionist. A good candidate must exhibit skills in both mechanical and digital media. Most formal training is found on the job, while other skills can be worked on independently.
Designers have many different duties. They use and repair a lot of different equipment and are responsible for the condition of the film itself. They inspect the projector and other machines, as well as the film prior to showing, looking for flaws or imperfections, and maintain each one if necessary. They must synchronize the visual element of the film with the sound element. A projectionist must maintain this, as he or she switches reels between two separate projectors every 20 minutes the film is shown.
Some theaters will not have a mechanical film projector, but a digital one. Projectionists working in these theaters should familiarize themselves with the software used and troubleshoot if necessary. Sound and film are combined into a form of digital media that is simply connected to a computer and played back. This requires less input from the projectionist, but the individual must still be available.
When training to become a projectionist, it is important to work on and develop the ability to multitask. Designers must keep track of a variety of different processes that are occurring at the same time. Since they are responsible not only for the visual image, but also for the sound and solving problems that may arise, the ability to multitask is a critical skill.
Most projectionist positions have no education requirements. Experience in handling audiovisual equipment tends to help. Most high schools offer courses in video production and computer science that are useful for anyone wanting to become a projectionist. It’s also a good idea to take any course that offers up close work and familiarization with the machines and their services.
Getting any position in a movie theater is a good place to start after high school. The manager and current designer must be notified of your desire to become a designer. If possible, become an apprentice projectionist, which will give you the opportunity to become a union projectionist after one to two years. This stage is important because most projectionists are unionized, with the exception of those in small, independently owned and operated theaters.
If accepted into a union, the union will help you acquire a projectionist position. However, it is rare for projectionists to be in high demand, so union help can substantially help in finding an open position. Always emphasize all your good mechanical skills, as well as good dexterity, eyesight and hearing.
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