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Do you want to make movies as part of a production team? Is your passion shooting videos and taking pictures?
Are you creative? Do you have a good eye for photography, and love recording videos?
If your answer is yes, an exciting career as a camera operator might be your future career path!
What Do Camera Operators Actually Do?
A camera operator is a media professional who:
operates the camera and captures the footage for films, TV programs, news, and other video content.
works with directors, cinematographers, and many other crew members to set the shot, film it and create the best visual story of the script.
may also work with drone operators, drone pilots, and dolly grips.
Did you know?
Wondering If You Have What It Takes?
As a camera operator, you should have:
An artistic eye
A technical mind to know well your camera and all film equipment
Excellent hand-to-eye coordination
Creativity to set unique shots and capture exclusive footage
Aptitude to follow instructions of directors, cinematographers, choreographers, and other creative personnel
Physical fitness to carry all heavy filming equipment
Ability to focus and block out distractions
Patience
Work well with others in a busy studio or a film location environment
Quiz
How would you describe a good camera operator? Select all that apply.
A creative mindset and an artistic eye are a must for camera operators.
Did you know?
How Do I Become a Camera Operator?
Do I need a degree?
Not really! There are no essential educational requirements for camera operators. However, a film school diploma will give a camera operator formal qualifications, and open more doors. Check local schools and community colleges offering Film and Broadcasting degrees and certifications.
⚡Guess who has the potential to become a successful Camera Operator!
Ray wants to find full-time employment and a steady job.
Robert likes to build robots in his garage with his father.
Carol is interested in photography and likes to work with people.
Marley uses a GoPro camera to take videos of her riding a dirt bike for her TikTok channel.
Quiz
Who has the best chance to become a camera operator? Select all that apply.
Both Carol and Marley would be a good fit for this career. Carol is collaborative and interested in photography so she has a good potential to become a successful Camera Operator. Marley is physically fit, knows how to use a camera, and capture footage in extreme conditions. Robert and Frank would do well to consider other careers more suited to their interests and abilities.
Will It Pay The Bills?
it's a competitive field and salaries vary significantly depending on the location, employer, and your experience.
In the US, the average salary for a camera operator is USD$30k - USD$121k.
Is Being A Camera Operator A Good Career?
Pros of the job:
Interesting and creative job
Collaboration with other creative people
Rewarding results
Can pay well
May lead to other opportunities in film and TV
Cons of the job:
Potential for extended periods without work between projects
Overtime work to meet deadlines
Possibly work in uncomfortable conditions or in dangerous locations
Take Action
If you think it’s the right path for you, there are many ways to get your foot in the door:
This Byte has been authored by
Tatyana Thorp
Instructional Designer/Multimedia Designer