I work in a provincial newsroom running three cameramen. One of my compatriots recently had one of those days he would rather forget.
By way of background, we have, until recently been shooting on 1985 model Sony Betacam. We then converted to brand new Panasonic DVCPRO 50 camcorders and can't believe the difference.
On the fateful day, he was sent on a two hour road trip to cover the launch of a new Commercial Tourist "JET BOAT". Our Cameraman was naturally a bit nervous about putting to sea in a largely unproven craft with his brand new pride and joy and quizzed the builder about how much saltwater spray could be expected. He was assured that it would be minimal and "not to worry".
Nevertheless he decided to go for a full rain-cover and take a large garbage bag as backup. Off they went at about 50 knots up the Bay, everything going well. Then, without warning The boat operator decided to throw in a typical '180degree JET BOAT SPIN' to entertain those on board. Our cameraman threw himself onto the floor of the boat covering the camera, but alas the new boats design wasn't quite up to the maneuver and it turned into a submarine.
Upon resurfacing the cockpit was full of water (about 3 feet deep) and cameraman was swimming with his new Panasonic still clutched to his chest. Engines had failed and they were 1 hour from the dock and then two more from the nearest camera technician.
By the time he returned, his camera had gained a few pounds of corrosion and no-one was prepared to put 'that' tape in one of our new editing machines.
Chief Engineer was far from amused and news Producer only wanted to know "where the hell is the story".
By Anonymous
