LIFT Proficiency Tests

Last Updated: May 9, 2022

At LIFT, proficiency tests are mandatory for certain rentals so we can ensure that the operator knows how to handle the equipment, with care, so that rentals can be safely used amongst all production members.

Our proficiency tests are different for each type of gear. This page will highlight what you can expect when you have to come in for a proficiency test. Please be advised that these tests are mandatory for the first time you rent an item that needs a proficiency test. If you will not be operating the gear, then your operator (who does not have to be a member), can take the test instead. However, the member is responsible for booking the test. To book a proficiency test, you can email tech@lift.ca for details. Rentals for for any equipment requiring a proficiency test will only be released upon satisfactory completion. For more information about our rental policies, please click here.

If you would like to rent an item, but do not have the background knowledge, please contact the Tech Department at tech@lift.ca and we can coordinate a time to go over the equipment with you, as well as setting up a custom workshop. We encourage any private consultation to be inquired as advanced as possible to your project’s shooting date (or exhibition, if renting a projector) to ensure the availability of both the equipment and instructor required. LIFT also provides three seasons of workshops per year offering a wide range of classes covering all equipment available through LIFT. Under the discretion of the Technical Department, orientations and consultations can be arranged on Tuesdays and Thursdays between 11:00am and 4:00pm.

Please scroll until you find the proficiency test that applies to you.

  • Multi Box Assembly Gear
  • Smaller 100′ 16mm and 35mm Cameras
  • PL Mount Lenses
  • Super8 and Regular 8mm Cameras
  • Analogue Projectors and Loopers
Multi Box Assembly Gear:

The multi-box assembly gear proficiency tests must be booked Tuesdays or Thursdays between 11:00am and 4:00pm, at least one (1) week in advance of your rental.

This proficiency test covers all gear that comes in multiple boxes, and will need assembly. List includes: RED Epic Mysterium-X Camera Package, Aaton XTR Prod Super 16mm Camera Package, Arri SRII Regular 16mm Camera Package, ARRI BL4 35mm Camera Package, ARRI 3 35mm Camera Package, Konvas 2M 35mm Camera Package.

Operators will need to demonstrate the following for all cameras:

  • Knowledge of the camera.
  • Knowledge of building the camera from the various boxes, and on top of a tripod.
  • Ability to demonstrate excellent lens-handling, and knowledge of the camera’s optics (including diopter).
  • Knowledge of powering the camera on.
  • Ability to dismantle the gear and put it back in the boxes.

For the analog gear, operators must demonstrate:

  • Ability to load the magazine from a dummy reel.
  • Ability to place the magazine properly into the camera slot.
  • Ability to run the dummy reel in the camera.

These tests are also subject to a small questionnaire.

Smaller 100′ 16mm and 35mm Cameras:

This proficiency test covers all 16mm and 35mm cameras that can be loaded with 100′ loads, springwound or electronic.

Operators will need to demonstrate the following for all cameras:

  • Knowledge of the camera, including it’s mechanisms (Turret, SBM, etc).
  • Knowledge of loading the camera, and ability to load the camera with a 100′ dummy reel properly.
  • Ability to demonstrate excellent lens-handling, and knowledge of the camera’s optics (including diopter).
  • Knowledge of running the camera with the dummy reel inside.
  • For the Bolex Underwater Camera Kit, all of the above, as well as putting the camera back inside its cage.

These tests are also subject to a small questionnaire.

PL Mount Lenses :

This proficiency test covers all PL mount lenses rented from LIFT.

Operators will need to demonstrate the following for all lenses:

  • Knowledge of what a PL mount lens is.
  • Ability to demonstrate excellent lens-handling, including: mounting the lens, and setting focus.

These tests are also subject to a small questionnaire.

Super 8mm and Regular 8mm Cameras: 

This proficiency test covers all Super8 and Regular 8mm cameras.

Operators will need to demonstrate the following for all cameras:

  • Knowledge of the camera, along with its optics.

For Super 8mm:

  • Knowledge of engaging the filter, if applicable.
  • Setting manual exposure, as well as automatic exposure.
  • Placing the cartridge in, then taking it out.

For Regular8mm:

  • Knowledge of loading the camera using a dummy reel.

These tests are also subject to a small questionnaire.

Analogue Projectors and Loopers: 

This proficiency test covers all analogue projectors and loopers that can be rented from LIFT.

Operators will need to demonstrate the following for all projectors:

  • Knowledge of analogue projectors.
  • Loading the projector, manually or automatic, depending on the projector.
  • Focusing the projected image.
  • Framing the projected image.

Operators will need to demonstrate the following for all projectors:

  • Ability to load a looper into a projector.

These tests are also subject to a small questionnaire.