The GBCT is a non-profit organization that serves as a representative body for camera technicians who work in the film and high-end television production industry worldwide.
In 2011 the GBCT joined with the BSC, GBFTE and BECTU to form a not for profit collecting society, Screen Craft Rights,[2] to receive copyright payments from sales of film and TV productions to Finland, Germany, Norway and Sweden and distribute them to UK cinematographers, designers and editors.
Their intention was to create an organisation that protected the interests and aspirations of a growing freelance workforce while developing new talent and maintaining high standards.
Members could be working in a number of grades including (but not exclusive to) clapper loader, focus puller, camera operator, digital imaging technician, and director of photography/cinematographer.
Full: This category is specifically for current practitioners living in the UK and Eire Overseas membership: This category is open to British technicians resident outside the UK, or non-British technicians who work regularly in the UK Associates: Associate members are individuals closely affiliated to the GBCT Trainees: Membership services and facilities is provided to Guild trainees for the duration of their time as trainees Retired members: This section is only available to existing Guild Members Honorary: Honorary Membership is awarded to individuals who have been instrumental in helping to support the Guild in some form or other or by enhancing its standing within the industry.
[13] The programme uses existing practitioners' experience and knowledge to provide training and mentorship to trainees who are placed on productions including feature films, TV drama and commercials.
The GBCT and its members have worked with University of the Arts London to design, develop and deliver a series of accredited qualifications for the camera department that blend academic knowledge with vocational skills.
Revising it to reflect advances in optics and film stock technology the Guild worked with Kodak Ltd and Dr Stephen Jackson.