Followspot operator jobs in Finland
Followspot operators control follow spots based on the artistic or creative concept, in interaction with the performers. Follow spots are specialized lighting instruments, designed to follow performers or movements on stage. Movement, size, beam width and color are controlled manually. Therefore, the operators work closely together with the light board operators and performers. Their work is based on instructions and other documentation. Their work can include working on heights, in bridges or above an audience.
Followspot operator - Which skills are essential?
Operate follow spots during a live performance based on visual cues or documentation.
Observe the conductor, orchestra or director and follow text and vocal score to time cues accurately.
Apply ergonomy principles in the organisation of the workplace while manually handling equipment and materials.
Interpret an artist's explanation or demonstration of their artistic concepts, inceptions and processes and strive to share their vision.
Efficient communication during live performance, anticipate any possible malfunctioning.
Make use of protection equipment according to training, instruction and manuals. Inspect the equipment and use it consistently.
Work with artists, striving to understand the creative vision and adapting to it. Make full use of your talents and skills to reach the best possible result.
Remove and store various types of electronic equipment safely after use.
Correct settings or positions for your working instruments and adjust them before starting operations.
Set up, test and operate different types of communication equipment such as transmission equipment, digital network equipment, or telecommunications equipment.
Set up sound, light and video equipment on stage before performance event according to specifications.
Cooperate with the artistic team in order to facilitate the transition from the creative vision and its artistic concepts to a technical design.
Take responsibility for lifelong learning and continuous professional development. Engage in learning to support and update professional competence. Identify priority areas for professional development based on reflection about own practice and through contact with peers and stakeholders.
Take the necessary precautions while providing temporary power distribution for performance and art facility purposes under supervision.
Apply the safety rules according to training and instruction and based on a solid understanding of the prevention measures and risks to your own personal health and safety.
Set up and test follow spots in different types of locations.
Safely dismantle sound, light and video equipment after a performance event. Make sure the equipment is correctly stored away.
Take necessary precautions and follow a set of measures that assess, prevent and tackle risks when working at a high distance from the ground. Prevent endangering people working under these structures and avoid falls from ladders, mobile scaffolding, fixed working bridges, single person lifts etc. since they may cause fatalities or major injuries.
Followspot operator - Which skills are useful but not essential?
Intervene in the case of a fire in order to extinguish the fire or limit the effects pending the arrival of emergency services according to training and procedures.
File and organise personal administration documents comprehensively.
Market one's own strengths in terms of skills and knowledge.
Reach out to and meet up with people in a professional context. Find common ground and use your contacts for mutual benefit. Keep track of the people in your personal professional network and stay up to date on their activities.