Zoran Perisic's book, The Animation Stand: Rostrum Camera Operations, is a technical guide that details how to use a rostrum camera, an analog filmmaking device. While Perisic is also known for inventing the "Zoptic" special effects process for films like Superman (1978), this book focuses on the traditional, hands-on mechanical techniques used for classic forms of animation. 
 
Content of the book
- As part of the "Media Manuals" series by Focal Press, The Animation Stand provides a practical, step-by-step approach to using rostrum cameras. The 168-page book details a wide range of camera operations and effects, including: 
- Camera movements: Detailed instructions on how to pan and zoom for dynamic camera movement.
- Optical effects: Techniques for creating effects such as double exposures, superimpositions, and travelling mattes.
- Animation techniques: Guidance on working with cels, cutout animation, and animating solid objects.
- Technical operations: Explanations of core filmmaking concepts, including focusing, exposure, and lighting for animation. 
 
Description of a rostrum camera
- The book focuses on the use of a rostrum camera, a film device that consists of a camera mounted on a movable frame above a horizontal animation table. The camera can move up and down, while the table can move in all directions. This allows the operator to execute movements like panning across a background painting or zooming in and out of a scene. The device was crucial for producing analog animations and creating titles and credits for documentary and feature films. 
 
Relevance today
- While digital technology has replaced the need for analog rostrum camera operations for most filmmakers, the book remains a valuable resource for several reasons:
- Manual operation: For animators working with older equipment, the book functions as a helpful instruction manual.
- Understanding classic techniques: The manual provides insight into the workflows and technical details of classical animation, which can inform work in the digital domain.
- Historical context: As a historical text, it preserves the knowledge of an analog craft that shaped decades of filmmaking and visual effect.