Cinematography Equipment Guide: Elevate Your Filmmaking.

Cinematography Equipment Guide: Elevate Your Filmmaking
Cinematography.

Cinematography Equipment: A Crucial Aspect of Filmmaking

Definition of Cinematography Equipment

Cinematography equipment refers to the tools and technology used in the art and science of creating motion pictures. It includes a wide range of devices that are essential for capturing, processing, and manipulating visual images, as well as recording high-quality audio. Some examples of cinematography equipment include cameras, lenses, lighting gear, grip equipment, sound equipment, and accessories like memory cards and batteries.

Cinematography equipment has evolved significantly over the past few decades, driven by advances in digital technology. Today’s professional filmmakers have access to an impressive array of high-tech devices that allow them to capture stunning visuals and create immersive storytelling experiences.

Importance of Cinematography Equipment in Filmmaking

Cinematography is a crucial aspect of filmmaking because it helps translate the director’s vision into a visual language that can be understood by audiences worldwide. The use of high-quality cinematography equipment can make a huge difference in terms of the overall production value and artistic merit of a film. Good cinematography can help evoke emotions such as fear or happiness through visual storytelling techniques such as contrast or camera angles.

It can also add depth to characters or scenes if executed correctly. In addition to enhancing aesthetic appeal, using top-of-the-line cinematography equipment can also improve workflow efficiency on set.

Cinematography is an integral part of filmmaking that involves much more than simply pointing a camera at something and pressing record. By understanding the importance from beginning to end including post-production workflows will enable professionals filmmakers to take their artistry to new heights which ultimately will result in engaging stories that resonate with audiences for years to come.

Here is a list of 50 cinematography equipment:

  1. Camera
  2. Lenses
  3. Tripod
  4. Monopod
  5. Slider
  6. Gimbal
  7. Steadicam
  8. Shoulder rig
  9. Matte box
  10. Follow focus
  11. External monitor
  12. Viewfinder
  13. Light meter
  14. Light reflector
  15. Lighting kit
  16. Softbox
  17. Umbrella
  18. C-stand
  19. Sandbags
  20. Gaffer tape
  21. Clamps
  22. Boom pole
  23. Shotgun microphone
  24. Lavalier microphone
  25. XLR cables
  26. Audio recorder
  27. Headphones
  28. Wireless transmitter and receiver
  29. Batteries
  30. Battery charger
  31. Memory cards
  32. Card reader
  33. Hard drive
  34. Laptop
  35. Editing software
  36. Color grading software
  37. External hard drive
  38. Camera bag
  39. Lens cleaning kit
  40. Rain cover
  41. ND filters
  42. Polarizing filter
  43. UV filter
  44. Graduated ND filter
  45. Variable ND filter
  46. Lens hood
  47. Camera strap
  48. Lens pouch
  49. Lens cap
  50. Lens adapter

Cameras

Types of Cameras

When it comes to cinematography equipment, the camera is perhaps the most essential tool in a filmmaker’s arsenal. There are several types of cameras available for use in filmmaking, each with its own strengths and weaknesses. Digital cameras have become increasingly popular due to their affordability and ease of use.

They offer high-resolution output, better color accuracy, and are more resistant to issues like scratching or damage to film stock. Film cameras, on the other hand, are still favored by some filmmakers for their unique aesthetic qualities.

Film has a grainy texture that can create a sense of nostalgia when used correctly. It also has a wider dynamic range than digital sensors, allowing filmmakers to capture highlights and shadows in greater detail.

Camera Features

Camera features play a crucial role in determining the overall quality of the footage captured. The lens is one such component that influences image quality greatly; its focal length determines how much of the scene will be captured in-frame as well as how close up you can get on your subject while retaining sharpness.

Sensor size is another important consideration when selecting a camera, as larger sensors tend to produce higher-quality images with better light sensitivity and less noise. Image resolution also plays a vital role in determining picture quality as it refers to how many pixels are contained within an image.

Popular Camera Brands and Models

There are numerous camera brands available in the market today catering to different budgets and needs. Some of the popular brands include Sony, Canon, RED Digital Cinema among others. Sony’s A7S III is particularly notable for its fantastic low-light performance thanks to its large sensor size which makes it easier to capture clean footage even at high ISO levels.

The Canon C300 Mark III has garnered significant attention from professionals due to its excellent autofocus system and ability to shoot 4K footage at 120 frames per second. RED Digital Cinema’s cameras are widely used in Hollywood blockbusters and high-end productions due to their unmatched image quality and modular design.

Choosing the right camera is an integral part of the filmmaking process. Each type of camera has its own unique advantages and drawbacks, so it’s essential to consider your specific needs and budget before making a purchase.

Lenses

Types of Lenses: Prime, Zoom, Wide-Angle, and Telephoto

One of the most important pieces of cinematography equipment is the lens. Lenses are essential for capturing high-quality images.

There are several types of lenses available on the market. Prime lenses have a fixed focal length and are known for producing sharp images.

They are also great in low light conditions due to their wide aperture range. Zoom lenses allow you to change focal lengths without changing lenses, making them more versatile than prime lenses.

Wide-angle lenses capture a wider angle of view than normal human vision, while telephoto lenses magnify distant objects. Each type of lens has its own advantages and disadvantages depending on your needs as a filmmaker.

Prime lenses typically produce sharper images with a wider aperture range making them ideal for low light situations where you need to let more light in without sacrificing image quality. Zoom lenses can be useful when you need to quickly adjust focal length without having to switch between multiple prime lenses.

Lens Features: Aperture, Focal Length, and Image Stabilization

When it comes to selecting a lens for your camera, there are several factors to consider such as aperture size, focal length and image stabilization capabilities. The aperture size determines how much light enters the lens and ultimately affects the depth of field in your shots. A wider aperture allows more light into the lens which results in shallower depth-of-field shots; whereas narrower apertures create more focus throughout the shot.

Focal length refers to how far away an object appears when viewed through a camera lens; this is measured in millimeters (mm). A longer focal length means that objects will appear closer together while shorter focal lengths make it easier to fit more things into one frame.

Image stabilization technology helps reduce motion blur from shaky hands or movements during filming by stabilizing the image in the lens or camera body. Some lenses have built-in image stabilization, while others require a separate stabilizing mechanism. We also wrote about: Cinematic Techniques: Mastering the Art of FilmMastering Film Lighting: Techniques & TipsCrafting Cinematic Masterpieces: Mastering Shot Composition. and Cinematic Peril: Challenges Facing the Film Industry to learn more the industry.

Popular Lens Brands and Models

Several companies make lenses that are popular among filmmakers because of their quality and features. Canon is known for producing high-quality EF-mount lenses, while Nikon makes great F-mount lenses.

Zeiss is another popular brand that offers high-quality manual focus lenses with excellent sharpness. Some popular lens models include the Canon EF 50mm f/1.8 STM, which is a great prime lens for beginners because of its low price and versatility; the Sigma 18-35mm f/1.8 DC HSM Art Lens, which offers a wide range of focal lengths and a fast aperture; and the Zeiss Otus 55mm f/1.4 APO Distagon T* Lens, which produces incredibly sharp images but comes with a hefty price tag.

As a filmmaker, investing in high-quality lenses can greatly improve the quality of your work. The right combination of lens features can help you achieve your desired shot style more easily and create visually stunning images that tell your story effectively.

Lighting

Lighting is one of the most critical elements of cinematography. It can make or break a scene, set the tone, and convey emotions through the use of shadows and contrast. Different types of lights have varying effects on the scene, and it is essential to understand their characteristics to achieve the desired result.

Types of Lights

Tungsten lights are traditional studio-style lighting fixtures that produce warm light with a color temperature around 3200K. They are relatively inexpensive, widely available and can be used with various light modifiers such as diffusers or reflectors.

However, tungsten lights do emit heat which can be problematic in small shooting locations. LED lights are becoming increasingly popular in recent years because they offer more versatility and energy efficiency than tungsten bulbs.

LED technology has come a long way since its inception, producing high-quality daylight-balanced light without emitting heat like tungsten lights. This feature means the crew can handle them easily without causing burns or discomforts.

Fluorescent lights come in a broad range of sizes and shapes they produce cooler light that mimics natural daylight at approximately 5600K. They’re also more energy-efficient compared to other alternatives as they generate less heat over time.

Light Modifiers

Diffusers help soften hard shadows created by direct lighting by scattering it in all directions evenly. They typically come in different materials like silk, plastic or nylon that alters how much light passes through them depending on their thickness

Reflectors redirect the directionality of light; they bounce it off surfaces or objects to create fill lighting for areas where there may not be enough illumination from primary sources. Both diffusers and reflectors have an essential part in modifying light; using these tools improves image quality by softening shadows while reducing glare.

Lighting Techniques

Three-point lighting technique is a basic lighting setup that illuminates the subject from three different directions to produce an optimal image. A key light positioned at a 45-degree angle to the subject provides the primary source of illumination, leaving one side of the face in shadow and creating depth in the shot. The fill light, positioned opposite to the key light, adds extra light to reduce any shadows created by the key light.

The back or rim light added behind your subject separates them from their background by highlighting their outline. Lighting helps create an atmosphere and emphasizes how things look on camera with different shapes and intensity of shadows.

Cinematography Equipment Guide: Elevate Your Filmmaking

Understanding cinematography equipment like lights and modifiers is essential to creating high-quality images that convey specific emotions or messages successfully. Each type of lighting has its own advantages; therefore, selecting suitable equipment depends on available resources and desired effects in any given scene.

Grip Equipment:

Grip equipment is an essential part of cinematography equipment, as it helps stabilize the camera and create smooth movements. This section will cover the three most popular types of grip equipment: tripods and monopods, dollies and sliders, and jibs and cranes.

Tripods and Monopods:

Tripods are the most commonly used grip equipment in cinematography. They provide stability to the camera and ensure sharp images by preventing shaky shots.

Tripods come in various shapes, sizes, and materials such as carbon fiber or aluminum. The choice between a tripod or monopod depends on the type of shot needed; monopods are lighter but less stable than tripods.

Monopods are perfect for capturing moving shots when there isn’t much space available to plant a tripod. The cameras can be moved swiftly with ease using a monopod which enables flexibility for filmmakers to use it in different scenarios.

Dollies and Sliders:

Dollies—and sliders—are used to capture smooth tracking shots that show movement within a scene. Dollies have wheels that allow it to move along tracks on the ground while sliders rest on a flat surface with their horizontal arm extending outwards. Both pieces of equipment can be programmed for specific movements via remote control.

Dolly shots help introduce characters or set up scenes; they can also move around objects through small spaces while maintaining high-quality footage. Sliders are more versatile than dollies; they can be used for both horizontal movements (left/right) as well as vertical movements (up/down).

Jibs And Cranes:

Jibs—also known as boom arms—can extend from six feet all the way up to 40 feet high! These long arms allow filmmakers to capture intricate shots from different angles; jibs have been popularized recently by their use in drone shots.

Jibs are portable and can be used on location, in the studio, or on a sound stage. Cranes are similar to jibs but are mounted on a tripod instead of being freestanding.

They provide more stability for larger camera setups and can move in vertical and horizontal directions. Cranes are typically used to capture sweeping panoramic shots from high above the scene or follow characters through crowded areas.

Grip equipment is an essential element of cinematography equipment and should be carefully considered when planning a shoot. Each piece of grip equipment has its own unique function, which adds variety and depth to your films.

Sound Equipment

Sound is an important aspect of any film production and good sound quality can make or break a project. To capture high-quality audio, the right equipment is necessary.

The sound equipment used in filmmaking includes microphones, boom poles, shock mounts, and voice recorders. In this section of the article, we will discuss each of these elements in detail.

Microphones

Microphones are essential for capturing clear and crisp audio on set. Two types of microphones commonly used in filmmaking are shotgun mics and lavalier mics.

Shotgun mics are directional microphones that pick up sound from a specific direction while minimizing background noise. They are ideal for recording dialogue between characters or other sound effects that require directional focus.

Lavalier mics, also known as lapel mics, are small microphones that clip onto the clothing of actors or speakers to capture their speech directly and clearly. They can be wireless or wired and provide greater flexibility for actors to move around without being limited by their microphone.

Boom Poles and Shock Mounts

Boom poles allow filmmakers to position shotgun microphones as close as possible to the source while remaining out of frame. This equipment allows the boom operator to quickly move around the set with ease while following actors’ movements and capturing dialogue clearly. To prevent unwanted noise from handling or movement impacting recordings, shock mounts protect microphones from vibrations transmitted through boom poles or stands by suspending them with elastic bands or rubber mounts.

Voice Recorders

In addition to using external microphones on set, filmmakers often use portable voice recorders as backup recording devices. Voice recorders can also be beneficial when capturing ambient sounds such as wildlife noises or city sounds that aren’t always present during filming. When selecting a voice recorder for film production purposes, it’s important to consider battery life, data storage capacity, and audio quality.

Many models include features such as built-in microphones and XLR inputs, which make it possible to connect external microphones or mixers. Sound equipment is an essential part of filming equipment for filmmakers who want to capture high-quality sound.

Equipment such as microphones, boom poles, shock mounts, and voice recorders play a significant role in capturing clear and crisp audio on set. Understanding the different options available when selecting sound equipment can help ensure that you choose the right tools for your film production needs.

Accessories

Filmmaking requires more than just a camera, lens, and lighting equipment. There are several accessories that can enhance the filmmaking process and improve the overall quality of the final product. In this section, we will discuss some of the most important accessories that every filmmaker should consider.

Memory Cards

Memory cards are crucial to any digital camera setup as they store all of your footage and photos. They come in different sizes, speeds, and capacities.

It’s essential to choose a memory card with sufficient storage capacity and fast write speeds for your camera so you can capture long clips or high frame rates smoothly. SD cards are commonly used for cameras today because they’re small and convenient.

They’re available in various speeds – usually denoted as UHS-1 (Standard), UHS-II (High-end) or UHS-III (Professional). The higher speed lets you capture larger video files faster without buffering or losing frames.

It’s also important to have multiple memory cards on set so that if one card gets full or corrupted during filming, it doesn’t affect the entire shoot. Always format memory cards before each use to avoid technical issues while recording.

Batteries

Batteries are another essential accessory for any filmmaker as they power all of your cameras, lights, microphones, and other devices on set. It’s essential to invest in high-quality batteries with long-lasting life so that you don’t run out of power halfway through filming a scene. It’s also recommended to have battery backups for critical pieces of equipment like cameras or sound recorders when shooting on location because there might not be an outlet nearby for charging batteries.

If possible, bring extra batteries with you on set so that you can swap them out when one dies without interrupting your shoot. Remember always carrying spare batteries is necessary since some devices consume more energy than usual, such as the flash or Live View function, which can quickly deplete your battery life.

Camera Bags

Camera bags are an essential accessory for any filmmaker because they protect and organize all of your equipment. Camera bags come in different styles and sizes, so it’s important to choose one that fits your needs.

Backpacks are comfortable to carry around when traveling between locations. They can hold a lot of gear and usually have multiple compartments for separating lenses, cameras, batteries, and other items.

Roller bags have wheels for easy transport but can’t hold as much gear as backpacks. They’re more suited for traveling on smooth surfaces like in airports.

Hard cases provide exceptional protection but are bulky and difficult to transport for long distances. It’s essential to choose a camera bag that fits all of your equipment comfortably while also being manageable enough to keep with you during shoots.

What are some essential pieces of equipment for cinematography?

Cinematography is a complex and technical art form that requires a lot of preparation and the right equipment to achieve the desired results. Whether you’re a beginner or an experienced filmmaker, choosing the right equipment is crucial to the success of your project.

In this section, we’ll explore some essential pieces of equipment for cinematography, how to choose the right video production equipment, common pieces of equipment used on TV and film production sets, the best film equipment for your production, and basic equipment requirements for new filmmaking students.

Firstly, some essential pieces of equipment for cinematography include a camera, lenses, lighting, and sound equipment. A camera is the most important piece of equipment, and there are many different types of cameras available, from DSLRs to cinema cameras. Lenses are also important, as they can affect the look and feel of your footage.

Lighting is crucial for creating the right mood and atmosphere, and sound equipment is necessary for capturing high-quality audio.When choosing video production equipment, it’s important to consider your budget, the type of project you’re working on, and your personal preferences. You should also research different brands and models to find the best equipment for your needs.

Websites like desktop-documentaries.com and filmlifestyle.com offer helpful guides and checklists for choosing the right equipment.Common pieces of equipment used on TV and film production sets include tripods, dollies, jibs, and cranes. These tools can help you achieve smooth camera movements and create dynamic shots. They can also be used to add visual interest and variety to your footage.

The best film equipment for your production will depend on the production design, budget, and creative vision. For example, if you’re shooting a period piece, you may need to use vintage cameras and lenses to achieve an authentic look. If you’re shooting a low-budget indie film, you may need to be creative with your lighting and sound equipment to achieve professional results.

Finally, basic equipment requirements for new filmmaking students include a camera, tripod, microphone, and editing software. These tools will allow you to practice your skills and create your own projects. Websites like nofilmschool.com and indeed.com offer helpful guides and checklists for beginners.

In summary, choosing the right equipment is crucial to the success of your cinematography project. By researching different brands and models, considering your budget and creative vision, and practicing your skills with basic equipment, you can achieve professional results and create compelling films that engage and inspire your audience.

What is a boom mic and how is it used?

A boom mic is a type of directional microphone that is mounted on the end of a long, flexible pole called a boom pole. It is used in film and video production to capture high-quality audio while minimizing background noise. The boom operator holds the pole and positions the microphone close to the actors or subjects being filmed, while staying out of the camera’s view.

This allows the microphone to capture clear dialogue and sound effects without picking up unwanted noise from the surrounding environment. Boom mics are commonly used in film and television production, as well as in live events such as concerts and theater performances.

What is a dolly and how is it used?

A dolly is a piece of equipment used in film and video production to create smooth camera movements. It consists of a platform with wheels that can be moved along a track or other surface. The camera is mounted on the platform, and the operator can push or pull the dolly to create a smooth, gliding motion. Dollies are commonly used for tracking shots, where the camera follows a moving subject, or for creating dynamic shots that move around a scene. They can also be used to create a sense of movement or to add visual interest to a shot.

What is a reflector and how is it used?

A reflector is a piece of equipment used in film and video production to manipulate light and create a desired effect. It is typically a flat, reflective surface that can be used to bounce light onto a subject or to diffuse harsh light. Reflectors come in a variety of shapes and sizes, and can be made from materials such as silver, gold, white, or black fabric.

They are commonly used to fill in shadows, soften harsh light, or create a specific mood or atmosphere. Reflectors can be handheld or mounted on a stand, and are an essential tool for any filmmaker looking to control the lighting in their shots.

What is the difference between a boom mic and a shotgun mic?

A boom mic and a shotgun mic are often used interchangeably, but there are some differences between the two. A shotgun microphone is a highly directional microphone that is designed to pick up sound from a specific direction while rejecting off-axis noise. It is often used in film and video production to capture dialogue and sound effects while minimizing background noise.

A boom mic, on the other hand, is any microphone that is mounted on the end of a boom pole. It can be any type of microphone, including a shotgun microphone. The boom pole allows the operator to position the microphone close to the actors or subjects being filmed while staying out of the camera’s view.

This allows the microphone to capture clear audio without picking up unwanted noise from the surrounding environment. In summary, a shotgun mic is a specific type of microphone with a highly directional pickup pattern, while a boom mic is any microphone mounted on a boom pole.

which type of microphone is better for recording dialogue in a film?

When it comes to recording dialogue in a film, a shotgun microphone is generally considered the best option. Shotgun microphones are highly directional and can be pointed directly at the source of the sound, such as an actor’s mouth, while rejecting off-axis noise.

This makes them ideal for capturing clear dialogue while minimizing background noise. Shotgun microphones are often mounted on a boom pole and positioned just out of frame, allowing the operator to capture high-quality audio while staying out of the camera’s view. Some popular shotgun microphones for recording dialogue in films include the Rode NTG5, Sennheiser MKH 416, and Deity S-Mic 2S.

While there are other types of microphones that can be used for recording dialogue, such as lavalier microphones or large diaphragm condenser microphones, shotgun microphones are generally considered the best option for capturing clear, high-quality dialogue in a film.

What is the price range for the recommended microphones?

The price range for recommended microphones can vary depending on the specific model and brand. Generally, shotgun microphones for recording dialogue in films can range from under $50 to over $1,000. For example, some affordable options include the Rode VideoMic series, which ranges from $99 to $299, and the Audio-Technica AT897, which is priced around $250.

Some higher-end options include the Sennheiser MKH 416, which is considered one of the best shotgun microphones for filmmaking and is priced around $1,000, and the Deity S-Mic 2S, which is priced around $350. Ultimately, the price of a shotgun microphone will depend on factors such as its features, build quality, and brand reputation.

What is the best shotgun microphone for professional filmmakers?

The Sennheiser MKH 416 is widely considered the best shotgun microphone for professional filmmakers. It is a highly directional microphone with a supercardioid pickup pattern that is designed to capture clear dialogue and sound effects while minimizing background noise. The MKH 416 has been a go-to microphone for professionals in the film and television industries for decades and is known for its high-quality sound and durability.

It is also versatile and can be used in a variety of settings, from indoor dialogue recording to outdoor field recording. While it is a more expensive option, priced around $1,000, many professionals consider it to be a worthwhile investment due to its superior sound quality and reliability. Other popular options for professional filmmakers include the Audio-Technica AT897 and the DPA 4097 CORE Shotgun Microphone, which are also highly directional and designed to capture clear audio in a variety of settings.

What are the most important factors to consider when choosing a camera for cinematography

When choosing a camera for cinematography, there are several important factors to consider. Firstly, you should think about your filming style and the type of footage you want to capture. This will help you determine the type of camera profiles and features you need. Secondly, you should consider the camera’s image quality, resolution, and dynamic range. These factors will affect the overall look and feel of your footage.

Thirdly, you should choose a camera with interchangeable lenses, as this will give you more flexibility and creative control over your shots. Fourthly, you should consider the price of the camera and any additional accessories you may need to purchase.

Fifthly, you should consider the user-friendliness of the camera, especially if you’re a beginner. Finally, you should consider the size and form factor of the camera, as this will affect its portability and ease of use. By considering these factors, you can choose a camera that meets your needs and helps you achieve your creative vision.

What are some common pieces of equipment used on TV and film production sets?

TV and film production sets require a wide range of equipment to ensure that everything runs smoothly and that the final product looks and sounds great. Some common pieces of equipment used on these sets include cameras, lenses, tripods, dollies, jibs, and cranes. Cameras are the most important piece of equipment, and there are many different types of cameras available, from DSLRs to cinema cameras.

Lenses are also important, as they can affect the look and feel of your footage. Tripods are used to keep the camera steady and in place, while dollies, jibs, and cranes are used to achieve smooth camera movements and create dynamic shots. Lighting equipment is also crucial for creating the right mood and atmosphere, and sound equipment is necessary for capturing high-quality audio.

Other common pieces of equipment include cables, monitors, and editing software. By having the right equipment on set, filmmakers can ensure that they capture high-quality footage and create compelling films that engage and inspire their audience.

Conclusion

Investing in Quality Cinematography Equipment Pays Off

Cinematography equipment plays a vital role in the overall production value of any film or video project. High-quality cameras, lenses, lighting equipment, sound gear and accessories are critical in achieving stunning visual and audio quality.

Filmmakers who invest in the right equipment can create more engaging content that stands out from the crowd. The impact of high-quality cinematography equipment is multifaceted.

Firstly, it ensures that every detail is captured and presented to the viewer in a way that inspires emotions and captures their attention. The use of cinematic techniques such as shallow depth-of-field or slow-motion shots can add an artistic touch to scenes that might otherwise be unremarkable.

Secondly, having top-notch equipment makes workflows smoother and more efficient. With higher performing cameras, there is less time spent on post-production edits; with more energy-efficient lights and longer-lasting batteries, there are fewer disruptions during filming.

These advantages ultimately translate into shorter production times while delivering better results. Investing in superior cinematography equipment reflects professionalism to all stakeholders involved- from crew members to investors- instilling confidence that the project will deliver premium results worthy of investment.

Overall, high-quality cinematography gear helps filmmakers create outstanding productions that capture audiences’ attention with engrossing visuals and sounds’ quality. While investing in superior gear requires a considerable financial commitment initially, this cost is offset by its impact on making production more efficient while creating an overall feeling of confidence amongst stakeholders involved – indicating a path towards success for any filmmaker serious about their craft.

I am a highly experienced film and media person who has a great deal to offer to like-minded individuals. Currently working on several exciting projects, I am a film and media practitioner for over a decade. I have achieved a great deal of success in my professional career.

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Author – Dennis

am a highly experienced film and media person who has a great deal to offer to like-minded individuals. Currently working on several exciting projects,

I am a film and media practitioner for over a decade. I have achieved a great deal of success in my professional career.