Doing camera at the Nationals - a few questions

[CameraFlyer101 0]

Are there experienced 4-way video guys that have done US Nationals in the past as either freelance camera or with their team? Could you please share your thoughts on these questions:

1. If you come as a freelance video dude, what are the chances of getting hired?
2. What is the average paycheck for a decent camera flyer at the Nationals these days?
3. If you travel with your team what is the usual deal? Does the team cover cameraman's tickets and jumps/fees for competition?
4. Any pros or cons for doing either freelance camera work or going with a team?

thanks

[ltdiver 3]

Quote

1. If you come as a freelance video dude, what are the chances of getting hired?
2. What is the average paycheck for a decent camera flyer at the Nationals these days?
3. If you travel with your team what is the usual deal? Does the team cover cameraman's tickets and jumps/fees for competition?
4. Any pros or cons for doing either freelance camera work or going with a team?

1. Depends on when you get there. The early bird gets the worm. Most teams get to Nat's at least a day (or two) early, in my experience. However, now that they're more savy they -know- to bring their own cameraflyer instead of relying on a 'pool'. The first year this rule changed I was amazed how many teams came unprepared. It's less common now, but there's always one or two who still do it.

2. Write your own ticket. If the team agrees, fine. If not, they're sure going to negotiate (or go looking elsewhere). Bring footage of your camera work (RW perferable) as proof of your skill. Most teams, even the less experienced ones, would like something nice to watch even if they're not in the same zipcode in the air. Do you have the skill for that?

3. Most experienced cameraflyers are taken care of as far as lodging and competition fees. You buy your own eateries, though.

4. It's all good. A committed team for the year is best. I've shot two National's teams (4-way) as freelance as well and had a blast those years. Met some great people and have made friends for life from those experiences. One's actually my teammate this year! Yeah!

Most important, have fun. Meet people. Hob Nob. You'll love every minute of it.
ltdiver

Don't tell me the sky's the limit when there are footprints on the moon

[Deuce 1]

Lori is so nice.

I call it "mercenary" camera flying.

I would suggest your proof is how you performed at previous Nationals. If you are good and fly two good cameras, you are worth slot, registration, and $20 a jump.

If you are a knucklehead with a flight recorder you are worth less, but if it's not on video, clearly it didn't happen.

This is the first year I've trained with an advanced team and will compete with them. The pressure is very high. They spend a ton of money on getting to the podium, and the camera flier better not be the determining factor as to what step they are on.

Get a team before they get to nationals so you can practice with them at least one day.