What is a B cam?
A B cam is the secondary camera used on a film or television set to capture additional angles and coverage that augment the main (A) camera.
In practice, the B camera records alternate angles, close-ups, inserts, and reaction shots, providing editors with multiple options to shape scenes and maintain pacing across takes. It typically operates alongside the A camera to maximize coverage without repeating performances.
Role and workflow on set
On most productions, the B camera is part of the standard shooting workflow and is often run by a dedicated operator or assistant. It supplements the A camera by capturing alternative framing, lens choices, and moments that the principal camera may not cover in a single take.
Typical on-set practices
Below is a breakdown of common practices that govern how B cameras are used on professional shoots.
- Timecode and slate synchronization to keep B and A camera footage aligned in post
- Different lens choices and focal lengths to provide distinct visual texture
- Alternate coverage for dialogue, action, and reactions to streamline editing
- Second unit work for complex scenes or stunts that require additional angles
- Color matching and consistent lighting to maintain a cohesive look across angles
These practices help editors cut between angles smoothly while preserving the director’s intent and performance quality.
Common uses and configurations
The B camera is versatile and can be deployed in several ways depending on the production’s needs and budget.
- Coverage and efficiency: capturing multiple angles at once to reduce the number of takes and maintain continuity
- Reaction shots and inserts: focusing on faces, hands, or small details that enhance the scene in post
- Different lensing and lighting: using a distinct lens or lighting setup to create a separate look from the A camera
- Parallel action: filming concurrent activities to enrich scene dynamics
- Multi-camera TV setups: in studio productions, B cams (often alongside A and C cams) enable quick switching and live editing
In practice, the B camera broadens the editor’s toolbox, allowing for faster assembly and more flexible storytelling.
How B cam differs from the A camera
Understanding the distinction between A and B cameras helps clarify how they contribute to a scene’s final cut.
- A camera: carries the primary performance and framing, usually optimized for the main action and dialogue
- B camera: provides supplementary angles, inserts, and details that complement the A camera’s coverage
- Editing flow: A camera often drives the initial assembly, with B camera footage filling gaps and offering alternatives
In modern productions, the line between A and B can blur with digital workflows, but the core idea remains: the B cam is the secondary eye that expands coverage and flexibility.
Summary
A B cam is the film or TV set’s secondary camera, used to capture additional angles, reaction shots, and inserts that complement the main A camera. Its role is to provide editorial options, improve coverage, and increase efficiency on set, whether in traditional two-camera shoots or multi-camera TV productions. When used effectively, the B camera helps tell a clearer, more dynamic story without forcing repeated takes.
What is a cam and b cam?
May 23. A two-camera show will have an A Cam and a B Cam (and on some days a C, D, and E cam). The A Cam team is the main team who generally does every shot, including the master. The B cam team will often come in on coverage, if shooting two cameras, to do an off angle.
What is a Ford B cam?
Ford B303 Cam
This Ford Performance B303 hydraulic roller camshaft, also known as a B303 cam, is a great way to add horsepower to your 5.0L 85-95 Mustang. Fox Body cams not only add performance, but they also give your Mustang an aggressive lope exhaust tone.
What does "b cam
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What is a bCAM assessment?
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