GTC Heads Into The War Zone

The work of cameramen in war torn countriesis to be celebrated with a series of seminars and workshops.
The Guild of Television Cameramen (GTC) has announced a workshop and seminar entitled 'Life in the Firing Line', to be held on 31 March at the RAF Museum in Hendon.
This event will celebrate the work of cameramen in war zones and riots, highlighting their activity in Afghanistan and Libya as well as other countries involved in the Arab Spring.
"Whilst applauding the work of men and women such as these and exploring their motives and techniques, we aim to emphasise the need for training and for recognition of the risks involved," said GTC Workshops Coordinator Clive North.
"Far too often, cameramen travel into war zones without apparent regard for the risks involved. Some never return, as can also happen to seasoned war cameramen and correspondents."
The day will include presentations by television cameramen and stills photographers, including GTC-member Jonathan Young who won a GTC Award for Excellence, along with Mark McCauley, for his work with Ross Kemp in Afghanistan in 2009.
Giles Duley is a well-known stills photographer who lost three limbs to an explosive device whilst working in Afghanistan but plans to return there this year. He will be sharing some of his experiences along with other cameramen and women.
Former paratrooper turned freelance cameraman Mike Reece will call on his 23 years service to provide a soldier’s view of ‘the media’ and how that relationship can be fostered for the benefit of all.
On the reporting side, ITN’s Alex Thompson will expand on some of his experiences in the world’s trouble spots and will chair the proceedings.
Colin Pereira (Head of Security, ITN) and Craig Summers (Head of Security, BSkyB) will explain how preparation and training should be applied to working in hostile environments. They will also describe their work in medical evacuation and repatriation.
Other speakers will be announced nearer the time on the GTC website www.gtc.org.uk
GTC members have free access to the workshop and lunch. Non-members are welcome at a booking fee of £80. Registration is online via www.eventelephant.com/gtc-warzone
In addition to the workshop itself, Panasonic Broadcast will take the opportunity to demonstrate its cameras including the new 1/3 inch chip CMOS AG-HPX250. Personal protection equipment will also be on show from Avon Protection.
(LB)