Film and video camera operators

Overview

Film and video camera operators operate motion picture and video cameras and related equipment to record news, live events, films, videos and television broadcasts. They are employed by television networks and stations, motion picture and video production companies and in-house communications facilities of large corporations.

This group performs some or all of the following duties:

  • Meet with director and senior members of camera crew to discuss assignment and determine filming sequences, camera movements and picture composition

  • Select and set up camera equipment to be used and attach lens, filters and film magazine to camera

  • Adjust focus, exposure, lighting and other camera settings

  • Operate film or video camera to record news, live events, films, videos and television broadcasts

  • Label and record contents of exposed film, and complete report sheets

  • Test, maintain and store equipment.

Job titles

  • assistant camera operator
  • camera operator
  • dance videographer
  • electronic field production (EFP) camera operator
  • electronic news gathering (ENG) camera operator
  • film camera operator

Employment prospects

Source: BC Labour Market Outlook 2024 edition

Annual salary

Low

$41,629

Median

$74,811

High

$120,756

Job openings

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British Columbia

214

expected job openings (5-year forecast)

Education and training

Employment requirements

  • Completion of a college or technical program in broadcasting, audio-visual technology or a related field and Experience as an assistant camera operator are usually required.

  • Creative and technical ability, as demonstrated by a portfolio of work and experience, may be required.

Additional information

  • Progression to supervisory or director of photography positions is possible with additional training and experience.

Certification requirements

  • No certification requirements

Post-secondary programs in B.C.

Explore programs related to this career offered at post-secondary institutions in B.C.

Beneficial post-secondary programs (not required)

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