...What does the DP do while the operator performs the shot? Some are total perfectionists...they watch a video monitor that shows the frame in real time...Some make mental notes on how to improve the shot for the next take.....Some don't care much at all--they bury their noses in a laptop or blackberry....I work with one who walks off the set to get fresh air and have a toke..er..smoke.....--He totally trusts me to keep his best interests in mind, and knows that If I F**k up the shot this time, I do what is necessary to fix the shot so it's good the next take. The status of my benefits is up in the air. I've worked enough hours over the years to be vested at a middle level-If I can get another good series (3-7 year series/episodic TV...) I can retire at 68 with a full ride:Top pension, full lifetime health benefits (ultra-important for me, especially..)...Both things I'd really like when I'm an altacocker..(sp.?)....My union doesn't have to give me an explanation why my classification was eliminated...I Know why...because the producers need more money for themselves. Jeez, I cost 'em $1500.00 on a good (16hr) day....How is it that that amount can be the straw that breaks the camel's back? Give me a break. The real sad realization came last week when it was revealed just how many of the other voting unions sided with the Cinematographers Guild--ONE--the Prop Local. Every other local (16 other crafts) voted to ratify the contract because the numbers that were offered were good for everybody else--about a million + workers--There's only about 3800 operators nationwide--apathy and complacency win. My choice now is to rerate up or down--Let's see, I was an assistant for 8 years about a decade ago.........gee, ya don't think the equipments changed at all do ya??Rerating back down to assistant isn't a thought--I don't love the business that much--rerating up to DP is a thought, but then I'd be this little fish who's just learned to swim vs. sharks that were born swimming...an adjustment to the cliche'. I'm not sure I'm up for the fight of little fish in big pond, especially considering I've been a good size fish in a little pond for some time....5Xwen....I think I'll do just that.....Thanks all, for the shoulder....