Role · Camera
The clapper loader keeps the record and keeps the camera moving.
The clapper loader, or 2nd AC, slates every take, writes the camera reports, sets the marks and manages the camera's media.
The job
The clapper loader, or 2nd AC, runs camera's record and logistics. You slate every take, write the camera reports, set marks, change and log media, and move and rebuild the camera with the 1st AC. You run the truck and the trainee.
On film you load and unload mags in the darkroom or a changing bag. The name comes from the film days; on digital, the slate and media are the core.
A typical day
- At the truck early, helping the 1st AC build the camera.
- Watch blocking and lay marks.
- Before each take, agree the slate with the script supervisor, call it clearly, clear frame.
- Log each take in the camera report.
- When a card fills, swap it and send it to the DIT.
- Between setups, move the camera and change lenses with the 1st.
- At wrap, finish reports and pack.
Skills
- Accurate, fast camera reports and slating.
- Media handling, with a clear chain from camera to the DIT.
- Building, rebuilding and changing lenses quickly and safely.
- On film: loading magazines by touch.
- Calm with the whole unit watching the slate.
Who you report to
You report to the focus puller (1st AC) and the DoP. The camera trainee reports to you.
How people get in
Most 2nd ACs have worked as camera trainees, often after a rental-house job. ScreenSkills publishes a skills checklist for the grade. The GBCT sets membership standards by grade.
Next step up
Focus puller (1st AC), after credits as 2nd AC and focus practice on second unit or smaller shoots. Some 2nd ACs move into DIT work.
Find out more
Skills checklist · Camera
Clapper loader (2nd AC)
Slate, camera reports, marks, media, building and moving the camera.
Tick what you can do now. It saves on this device only. Print it or save it as a PDF and bring it to your competency check.
A guide, not a qualification. Built from our camera ladder and the clapper loader guide. Compare it with the ScreenSkills checklist . Checked 13 November 2026.
Watch
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Last reviewed 9 November 2026