As part of a broader career-development period from January to May 1995, I completed a six-week internship at Panavision’s former headquarters in Tarzana, Los Angeles. This immersive experience covered all aspects of the company's operations, providing invaluable insights into the inner workings of a leading industry player. Although Panavision has since relocated to new premises in Woodland Hills, I remain well-acquainted with their current operations and facilities.

 

Areas Covered:

• Camera Rental
• HD Camera Development Department
• Camera Maintenance
• Electronics Department
• Lens Maintenance, Collimation and Modulation Transfer Function (MTF) calibration
• Camera and Equipment Preparation
• Fluid & Geared Head Maintenance
• Shipping & Receiving

 

Due to an unexpected flu outbreak, I was invited to cover a staff shortage in Lens Maintenance, where I spent two weeks servicing lenses. This opportunity led to a two-week extension of my time with the company.

 

During my extended stay, Panavision secured the contract for Cutthroat Island on short notice. I played a key role in prepping and shipping 167 cases of equipment in under 12 hours, ensuring the production had everything it needed on time.

 

Lenses:

 

Lenses that I trained on and available at that time were: Primo Prime Lenses & Zooms (Spherical & Anamorphic) • Primo Close Focus Lenses • E Series and C Series Lenses • Macro Lenses • Slant Focus Lenses • Lightweight Zoom Lenses • Zeiss Ultra Speeds • Zeiss Super Speeds • Close Focus and Macro Lenses • Telephoto Lenses • Zoom Lenses • Projection Lenses • Innovision Lens System • Frazier Lens System.

 

Camera Systems:

 

Camera Systems I trained on and available at the time: Platinum Panaflex • Golden Panaflex GII • Panaflex X • Panaflex Lightweight • Super Panavision Silent Reflex Camera System • Panastar II • Pan Arri III • Mark II Camera System.

 

Electronics Department

 

Equipment I trained on included: Video Assists • Monitor Systems • Batteries and Chargers • FTZAC