Camera operator

Camera operators compose and frame shots for film, television and video.

Also known as:

• Film camera operator
• Television camera operator
• TV camera operator

Work activities

Camera operators compose and frame shots for film, television and video. Before filming, the camera operator reads through the script to plan camera angles. These are then discussed with the director. During filming, camera operators wear a headset through which they receive instructions from the director. Operators position the camera precisely and focus the lens at exactly the right moment. Film and video camera operators have more opportunity to be creative than those working as part of a team in a multi-camera television studio. Experienced operators sometimes advise the director on the visual effect of various shots, to produce the most effective sequence.

In film, one of the top jobs is that of the lighting camera operator. They are responsible for both the technical and artistic quality of shots. In regional television, camera operators are likely to be technical all-rounders. Outside broadcast operators tend to specialise in a particular area, such as music or sport. Camera operators sometimes have to travel and spend long periods away from home, especially if shooting a film on location. Most camera operators work on a freelance basis. Camera assistants support the camera department and learn essential practical skills.

Personal qualities and skills

As a camera operator, you need:

• A practical interest in photography, lenses, lighting and simple electronics.
• The ability to compose skilful and artistic shots.
• Excellent hand-eye co-ordination and good hearing and eyesight.
• To be physically fit and able to carry heavy equipment.
• The ability to work as part of a team and take direction.
• Patience.
• Personal resilience and self-sufficiency, if working as a freelancer.

Sound, editing and other technical skills may also be required in some jobs.

Pay and opportunities 

Pay rates for camera operators depend on the type of production they work on, duration of the project and whether they are employed or self-employed. The pay rates given below are approximate. Most camera operators work on a single contract freelance basis. BECTU, the media and entertainment trade union, recommends pay rates for camera operators working in outside broadcast locations and in film and TV, which you can view on their website.

Camera operators often work long and irregular hours, especially when working on outside broadcasts. Early starts, late finishes and weekend work may be required.

Opportunities for camera operators are mainly in major broadcasting production centres such as London, Birmingham, Manchester/Salford and Leeds. Employers include television, film and video companies. Many of these use freelance camera operators on a contract basis.

Some large companies (for example, in manufacturing) have their own media production facilities. Pop videos and film and television commercials also require the skills of camera operators.

Self-employment opportunities occur for camera operators to work as self-employed freelancers.

Where are vacancies advertised?

Vacancies are advertised on:

• Employers’ websites such as BBC Careers and ITV Jobs.
• Job boards such as Broadcast Jobs, Grapevine Jobs, and 4rfv.

Entry routes and training

New entrants often start out in a camera assistant role. Many hold a relevant photography, film or TV qualification. Camera operators are likely to start out in local television or with video production companies. Many camera operators work on a freelance basis.

As an aspiring camera operator, you should gain as much experience of filming as possible. You could also try to get a place on a training course provided by the industry or apply for a relevant vocational course at college or university. ScreenSkills provides a list of relevant courses.

A number of degrees, foundation degrees and HNDs in film and television production/media production are available.

You could do a level 3 (advanced) apprenticeship in the role of camera prep technician and gain experience of camera operation before moving into the role of camera operator.

With experience, camera operators can progress to senior roles and positions in national television and film work.

Qualifications

Entry requirements for training schemes vary. The majority usually ask for a good general education along with an artistic, technical and practical interest in topics such as photography, film, video, lenses, stage lighting and simple electronics. However, as competition for places is so fierce, many successful applicants have qualifications such as A-levels, a degree and/or technical qualifications. Useful GCSEs include English, maths, physics and media studies. If you want to do an advanced apprenticeship, you will need GCSEs in English and maths.

Adult opportunities

Age limits: It is illegal for any organisation to set age limits for entry to employment, education or training, unless they can show there is a real need to have these limits.

Skills and abilities gained in related areas, such as professional photography or lighting/sound technician work, are useful.

Some colleges relax entrance requirements for applicants who have relevant paid or voluntary experience.

Related careers

• Video producer