by automated software which takes care of copying the relevant files based on metadata. Editing and VFX The video assist gear often includes an editing software, usually running on the same or a networked machine, so rough cuts can be made by the VA operator right on set. A portable video mixer, or a similar function built right into the VA software, is useful to check out key, blends or pre-visualize visual effects. A more complex effect involving motion control or programmable remote heads can see the VA system sending or receiving triggers to such systems, to sync up live and playback images to show the director the effect in real time - for example when the same actor is playing more than one character. Streaming and remote shooting Live streaming of the camera images has been around for a while, but it really took off during the 2019 Covid lockdowns. Film crews needed better ways of distancing, and get rid of the group of people standing around monitors. Streaming to personal phones and iPads allows crewmembers to socially distance while still watch the camera feeds. After the borders were closed, crews had hard time to travel, and were looking for solutions. Streaming encrypted live feeds from shooting to decisionmakers' homes was one of them. Directors shooting pickup shots, Agency and Creatives watching commercial shootings can now participate without travelling overseas. Streaming usually originates from the Video Assist cart (they have both video from camera and audio from sound). References External links On the Set with Video Assist by Michael Frediani Jerry's Crazy Tool: How Video Assist Came To Be by Mark Adler Handbook on video assist Film and video technology Cinematography