a. Your choice of camera and film will be determined by the final product
desired by the requester. For example, the requester may want both color and
black-and-white prints. Color negative film can give you both products and it
is available in a wide variety of formats, so your choice of a camera is much
greater. There are other considerations if the requester is the Public Affairs
Office (PAO).
(1) A public relations photograph must combine the storytelling
requirements of an editorial with the appeal of an advertising picture. Good
examples of these are the recent films used by the Army to promote recruiting.
These films present soldiers at work during the day at their military posts
(editorial, storytelling); then, for relaxation in the evening, touring famous
spots near their stations (advertising or selling the Army). This film creates
a favorable impression of the Army for the Army.
(2) Although most of your work will be documenting the Army for
training, tactical employment, medical, intelligence, and decision making, some
of your work will be used for public affairs. In this case, all pictures will
be cleared by the PAO prior to release to the media or other public
organizations.
b. The who, what, when, where, and why of your assignment will be a big
factor in your equipment and film choice. An architectural assignment normally
calls for a view camera and the necessary cut film. An accident can be best
handled with a medium or small format camera.
A football-game is easiest to
shoot with a 35mm reflex camera and a variety of lenses. Whether the event is
indoors or outdoors, daylight or nighttime, on a beautiful sunny day or in
downpouring rain, it will call for decisions on film speeds and accessory
lighting.
c. Time constraints may influence your choice of camera equipment.
For
example, a quick identification picture may be satisfied with polaroid film and
a supporting camera.
It must be stressed that you should develop a
standardized check list so that you will have the equipment you need with you.
Such preparation will save you time in the long run because it will reduce the
number of reshoots.
5.
Mission parameters.
a. In terms of equipment, the majority of military photographers use the
35mm reflex camera and a variety of lenses. This gives the flexibility, large
film capacity, and quickness necessary to handle a variety of situations.
High-speed black-and-white film is often preferred to provide the necessary
sensitivity for a variety of lighting conditions.
For color work, a medium
speed reversal film is often used. A small electronic flash, tripod, filters,
notebook, and a carrying bag can complete your outfit.
As we have stressed,
knowledge and confidence in the handling and use of your equipment is
important.
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