MIKE GENTILINI, JR.
CINEMATOGRAPHER | CAMERA MOVEMENT
Camera Movement Specialist
Mike Gentilini, Jr. | Cinematographer
Hey, I'm Mike with VidMuze! I'm based in Asheville, NC and have been working in the Film/TV industry for over 20 years as a cinematographer. My team and I provide arm cars, drones, FPV drones, cable cam and MoVI Ops.
I'm a ICG 600 operator and my passion is camera movement. I founded VidMuze Cinema in 2011 and we specialize in camera movement platforms. My team and I travel all over the country providing cinematic camera moves for feature films, episodic, commercials, narratives and music videos. I'm very passionate about my work!​
I work with my team operating various types of moving platforms for different shots depending on what camera movement is required. I work primarily as a "camera movement coordinator" on set. My team and I typically work either as a 2nd unit crew or we work along side the director or DP. With my 12+ years of experience, I provide creative camera movement options to maximize artistic cinematography including camera blocking and focal length lens choices.
Our movement platforms include:
• Arm Cars • Cinebike • Heavy Lifter & FPV Drones • Cable Cam • Cam/MoVI Operators
Featured Work
Brands
Behind the Scenes
In the world of film production, the art of capturing compelling visuals lies at the heart of storytelling. From sweeping panoramic shots to intimate close-ups, the way a camera moves can greatly enhance the narrative and evoke emotion in viewers. This is where a camera movement specialist comes into play – a skilled professional dedicated to creating dynamic and impactful camera movements that bring a director's vision to life on the screen.
A camera movement specialist, also known as a camera operator or camera movement coordinator, is a key member of the film crew responsible for operating the camera and executing complex movement sequences. Beyond simply framing shots, these specialists collaborate closely with directors, cinematographers, and other crew members to plan and execute intricate camera movements that elevate the visual storytelling of a film.
The role of a camera movement specialist involves a range of responsibilities, including:
1. Collaboration and Planning: Before filming begins, the camera movement specialist works closely with the director and cinematographer to understand the creative vision for the project. They participate in pre-production meetings to discuss shot compositions, camera movements, and technical requirements to achieve the desired visual style.
2. Execution of Camera Movements: During filming, the camera movement specialist operates various camera equipment, such as cranes, dollies, steadicams, and remote-controlled systems, to execute smooth and precise camera movements. They must have a deep understanding of camera techniques and equipment to capture shots that convey the intended mood and atmosphere of a scene.
3. Technical Expertise: Camera movement specialists are proficient in operating a wide range of camera systems and stabilization tools to achieve steady and fluid shots. They may also be responsible for troubleshooting technical issues that arise during filming to ensure the continuity of the production.
4. Creativity and Innovation: Beyond technical proficiency, camera movement specialists bring a creative flair to their work, suggesting innovative camera movements and angles that enhance the visual storytelling of a film. They experiment with different techniques to create dynamic and engaging shots that captivate audiences.
5. Adaptability and Collaboration: In a fast-paced and collaborative environment like film production, camera movement specialists must be adaptable and able to work efficiently with other crew members to meet tight deadlines and production schedules. They communicate effectively with the director and cinematographer to translate creative ideas into stunning visuals on screen.
In conclusion, a camera movement specialist plays a crucial role in shaping the visual language of a film through expertly crafted camera movements. By combining technical expertise with creative vision, these professionals contribute to the overall quality and impact of a film, helping to immerse audiences in the storytelling experience. As guardians of the camera's movement, they are essential members of the film crew who bring cinematic magic to life one frame at a time.