MARINE CORPS AIR STATION IWAKUNI, Japan -- The shutter falls at the push of a button - instantly a moment in time is captured forever. From the "tip of the spear" in forward deployed locations to garrison commands here and stateside, combat photographers strive to provide lasting images of the Marine Corps as well as full-service audiovisual assistance to military units here.
Located in Building One, room 115, the Combat Visual Information Center can assist local service members and commands in a variety of ways, according to Sgt. Anthony J. Adamson, CVIC combat photographer.
"Our shop is here to support others with on-site photo shoots, where a photographer goes to your location and takes group pictures or documents an event, as well as studio photography, where service members come here and take individual photos for military use," Adamson said.
CVIC's services can range from staff noncommissioned officer selection board photos, command board images and brig chaser photos to no-fee passport photos and the United Through Reading Program videotaped storytelling for deployed parents and more, he said.
The center operates with four Marine combat photographers and one Japanese civilian studio photographer, who work hard to ensure each photograph taken is of the highest quality, but Adamson explains even the photo subjects have to put in effort of their own - ensuring that they are responsible for a neat and professional military appearance in the photo shoot.
"We recommend when taking a selection board photo, that you bring a 'buddy' to look over your uniform before you take the picture. You should check and recheck the placement of ribbons and devices as well. The photographers may adjust the subject's uniform if they notice a discrepancy, but it's only a courtesy. The subject is ultimately responsible for his appearance."
For passport photos, subjects must wear a dark colored, collared shirt and chaser card photos are taken in the uniform of the day.
The United Through Reading Program is another service offered by the center. The program allows deployed family members to record themselves reading a book to loved ones back in the States. The service is free and open to anyone and the only requirement according to Lance Cpl. Brian Henner, CVIC combat photographer, is parents must bring their own VHS videocassette to record to.
"They may call or come in and let us know they want to sit down and read to their children. We have a new, private reading area with a comfortable chair and lamp that is used for the program. Most people bring their own books to read, but we do have some books available for use.
"We set up the video camera and press record and let the parents read to their children and send a special message," Henner said. "We try to have the tape duplicated for use within the same day depending on work load, but the latest a tape will be ready is one business day."
Requests for other photographic services should be filled out one week prior to the event or desired project start date. The center generally utilizes a five-day turnaround time for services. The CVIC photo studio is open Mondays through Fridays from 8 a.m. until 4 p.m.