Mastering the Art
of a Digital Image Technician (DIT):
A Decade-Long Journey

In the ever-evolving landscape of media production, few roles are as pivotal and versatile as that of a Digital Image Technician (DIT). These unsung heroes of the filmmaking process ensure that the magic happens not only on the set but also in the digital realm. 

For me, the journey into the world of DIT started with a gentle nudge from my university professor, François Miron. His keen eye identified my innate talent for the technical aspects of media production, and this marked the beginning of an exhilarating and rewarding 10-year career.

From Student Films to Professional Set

My journey began by assisting on student films within my class. While my fellow students were engrossed in the creative aspects of filmmaking, I was drawn to the technical side. I quickly accumulated valuable experience working with a variety of high-end cameras, including RED, ARRI, and BlackMagic cinema cameras. This was my baptism into the world of cinematography and digital imaging.

As a DIT, my role was multifaceted. I set up live stations to capture camera feeds, applied real-time color corrections for the director and Director of Photography (DOP) to review, and even performed live chroma-keying. This allowed us to visualize the final product as we worked, making on-set decisions more informed and precise.

Swift and Safe Data Wrangling on Set

In addition to my primary roles, I also took on the critical task of data wrangling on set. I was responsible for the swift and secure data backups of all the shoot footage. This aspect of the job was no less crucial, ensuring that every frame captured during production was protected and ready for post-production.

Broadening the Horizons: Beyond On-Set Production

As I grew more confident in on-set production, my curiosity led me to explore broader horizons. I delved into broadcast standards and live streaming for the web. In most cases, I took it upon myself to learn extensively how to execute these processes with open-source tools directly to platforms. The ability to integrate these digital elements seamlessly into live productions added an entirely new dimension to my skill set.

The Move to Bangalore: Leveraging a Unique Skill Set

When I relocated to Bangalore, India, my diverse knowledge set turned out to be a game-changer. The media production landscape in the city presented its unique challenges, and my skill set gave me a significant advantage.

I began improving on-set workflows to provide not only the director and DOP but also clients who were present on shoots a closer idea of the finished product during production. This innovative approach streamlined the post-production process, making it more efficient and cost-effective.

Navigating Multi-Camera Shoots and Green Screen Sets

Multi-camera shoots, particularly those involving intricate green screen sets, became my forte. My involvement eased the process, making what might seem complex to others, a breeze. The combination of live color correction and real-time visual effects adjustments ensured that every shot was captured precisely as intended, saving valuable time and resources.

In conclusion, my journey as a Digital Image Technician has been nothing short of incredible. It started with a professor's insight and has grown into a career that blends technical prowess with creative storytelling. Whether I'm behind the scenes or working with clients on set, my role is to make sure the magic of filmmaking happens. A DIT may not be in the spotlight, but they are essential to bringing every story to life on screen. 

As the media industry continues to evolve, the role of a DIT remains indispensable. It's a role where technical proficiency meets creative artistry, and I wouldn't have it any other way. Here's to another decade of enhancing visual storytelling, one pixel at a time.