Cinematographer
Der Insert Car ermöglicht mir volle Kontrolle über die Lichtsituation im Auto. Das Fahrzeug steht still, nur die Umgebung bewegt sich.
Specially modified camera vehicle (usually truck or van) carrying crew, equipment and power supply as a mobile platform for tracking shots.
Overview
An Insert Car (also known in German as a camera vehicle or camera truck) is a specially modified vehicle used as a mobile camera platform for driving shots. Despite the term "Car," it is almost always a truck, pick-up, or van. The vehicle carries the camera crew and equipment on a series of platforms, thus functioning as a complete mobile set.
The Insert Car must be clearly distinguished from the Picture Car (the vehicle visible in the shot): The Insert Car itself is never in the frame but exclusively transports the camera, lighting, and crew. During the shot, it drives in front of, behind, or alongside the Picture Car and can tow it simultaneously.
Construction and Equipment
Characteristic features include several removable platforms – such as a front platform and a platform above the driver's cabin – where the camera operator and equipment can be positioned. Typical components:
- Onboard Generator: provides independent power for camera equipment and lighting kits.
- Crane Mounts: the platforms are designed for common Techno-Cranes/Remote Arms, allowing for crane movements.
- Multiple Tie-down Points: for various camera positions around the vehicle.
- Towing Device: trailer hitch or fifth wheel for towing Picture Cars or Process Trailers.
During the drive, the director often sits in the cabin, monitoring the image on screens, while the operators film from the platforms.
Usage on Set
The Insert Car is primarily used for realistic driving shots where the actor does not need to drive themselves. It can directly tow the Picture Car (Tow) or pull a Process Trailer or Tow Dolly on which the Picture Car is placed. Some Insert Cars are capable of side-towing, where the trailer is pulled from the side – this allows for simultaneous camera positions in the front and on the side.
Direct towing without a trailer is mainly recommended when no other vehicles are in the shot: If the Picture Car is on a trailer, the height difference to passing vehicles can easily reveal the setup. In addition to driving shots, Insert Cars are also used for establishing shots, such as driving through city streets.
Example Technical Specifications (Rental Configuration)
Specific values vary depending on the provider and setup. Example of an Insert Car available on the market (Pursuit Systems, Chevy 3500HD):
| Feature | Value |
|---|---|
| Drive | All-wheel drive (4WD) |
| Suspension | Self-leveling air suspension (rear) |
| Generator | 300 A, single or three-phase (AC) |
| Rear Tow System | 7-position tow |
| Crane Compatibility | Common Techno-Cranes |
From the crafts
Perspectives
Director
Mit einem Insert Car kann ich Dialogszenen im Auto drehen ohne die Sicherheitsrisiken eines echten fahrenden Fahrzeugs.
Producer
Insert Cars sind sicherer und kontrollierter als echte Fahraufnahmen. Bei komplexen Dialogszenen im Auto oft die bessere Wahl.
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Quiz
1. Was beschreibt „Insert Car" am besten?
2. Zu welchem Department gehört „Insert Car"?
3. Wie viele verschiedene Fachperspektiven bietet dieser Eintrag?