...there was an independent, international organisation that really cared about camerawork and the people who make it their craft?

...somebody published regular magazines and newsletters specifically for those operating video cameras professionally?

...you could log on to an internet forum where cameramen from all around the world exchange ideas, advice, experiences and information?

...an organisation provided free workshops and seminars for its members, on everything from night-shoots to web design?

...there was a set of awards, presented to cameramen by their colleagues, that celebrated their best work and achievements?

Well, there is!

The Guild of Television Cameramen (GTC) was formed in 1972 and now has well over 1,000 members. Although based in the UK, the GTC membership is truly international, with representation from Singapore to Siberia and New Zealand to The Netherlands. The GTC puts members' subscriptions back into what it does, enabling it to keep the cost of membership low and the quality of services and activities high.

The GTC is a non-profit organisation, run by a Council of around 20 volunteers with careers in television and is sponsored by many major manufacturers and suppliers from the industry. The GTC offers a way for manufacturers, when designing new equipment, to consult with working cameramen to produce outline specifications for such things as cameras, lenses and mountings.

The GTC is not a trade union and avoids any political involvement, but it is an authoritative source of advice and information on all matters concerning television cameramen. Its aim is to preserve the professional status of the television cameraman and to establish, uphold and advance the standards of qualification and competence of the television cameraman.

Member Benefits

- Two issues per year of the glossy magazine Zerb, The Journal of the GTC.
  Four full colour GTC Newsletters per year.
- A wide range of FREE workshops on subjects as varied as camera techniques, lenses, lighting, editing, and web   design.
- A fully Comprehensive website with a large members only section with useful resources and information.
- Opportunities to be listed online at the GTC website and in a Contact list booklet.
- Free Accident at work insurance for those under 70 (UK members only).
- Social events, offering the chance to meet with other cameramen.
- A highly respected online forum for exchanging news, views and information with cameramen from around the world, as   well as direct contact to manufacturers and other companies.
- Discounts on products from many rental companies, distributors and manufacturers
- An annual dinner where awards are presented for excellence in camerawork and lifetime achievement and where   products are awarded the GTC seal of approval.