Behind Every Great Shot: The Importance of an Experienced Digital Technician on Your Next Shoot

In today's world of photography and videography, technology plays an integral role in the creative process. From capturing high-quality images to post-production editing, digital equipment and software are essential tools for professionals in the field. However, managing and maintaining this equipment can be a challenging task, which is where a Digital Technician (Digi Tech) comes in.

An experienced Digi Tech is an essential member of any photo or video shoot team. They are responsible for ensuring that all digital equipment, including cameras, computers, and software, is working correctly and efficiently. Their job is to troubleshoot any technical issues that may arise and keep the production running smoothly. Here are some reasons why an experienced Digi Tech is essential on a shoot:

Paco Rabanne campaign by Simon Eeles shot in Prague. Capture by Gelatin.dk with Mamiya RZ Pro II and Phase One digital back.

1. Expertise and Experience

A Digital Technician is a highly skilled professional who has years of experience working with digital equipment and software. They have an in-depth understanding of the technology and can provide technical support to the rest of the team, including the photographer, videographer, and assistants. Their expertise ensures that everything runs smoothly, and the equipment is used to its full potential.

2. Time-Saving

A Digi Tech's role is to ensure that everything is set up correctly and efficiently, saving time during the shoot. They are responsible for downloading and backing up all images and video footage, ensuring that nothing is lost. Additionally, they provide processed files, in High and Low res, including any Photoshop files that have been done on set, so that clients, photographers and retouchers have everything they need ready for the post production stage.

3. Troubleshooting

Even with the most advanced technology, technical issues can arise. An experienced Digi Tech can troubleshoot any problems quickly and efficiently, ensuring that the shoot continues without interruption. They can identify and fix issues with the camera, software, or any other digital equipment on set, saving time and reducing stress for everyone involved.

4. Collaborative Team Player

A Digital Technician is a collaborative team player who works closely with the photographer, videographer, and other members of the production team. They can provide valuable input on lighting, composition, and other technical aspects of the shoot. They are also responsible for ensuring that everyone on the team has what they need to do their job, from fully charged batteries to memory cards.

Creative Color Grading done by Gelatin.dk for Verso x Caseper Sejersen . This grading was done by the Digi Tech's own experimentation, and the image used as it was by the client.

5. Color Grading Expertise

A Digi Tech is also responsible for color grading, which is the process of adjusting and enhancing the color of an image or video. They have the expertise and knowledge to ensure that the colours are accurate and consistent across all images and video footage. A skilled Digi Tech can take your images to the next level by bringing out the best in the colours. Furthermore, the digi tech can also add his creative skills and knowledge to achieve specific looks, such as a film look or 90s magazine look. This is a skill that is learned throughout years of working on set with various photographers and clients.

This creative composition was done on set without any guidance, and used as a final image. Saving time and spending on post production. Verso x Casper Sejersen

6. On-set Image Retouching

A Digi Tech is also responsible for on-set image retouching, which involves making adjustments to the images as they are being captured. This can include removing small imperfections, adjusting skin tones, removing distracting elements from the background, or making compositions from various images. By retouching the images on set, the Digi Tech can ensure that they are ready for post-production editing, saving time, budget and effort down the line. They can also provide real-time feedback to the photographer or client, ensuring that everyone is happy with the images before moving on to the next shot.

At Gelatin we are experienced in all of these things and much more. Whatever you dream, we can do. We are based in Copenhagen, Denmark, and travel world wide. Get in touch today to discuss your project.