Video & Film Camera Operator

Explore This Path

Capture the magic of storytelling through the lens of a camera.
Bring directors' visions to life with your technical expertise and creativity.
Explore diverse settings and scenes, from bustling cities to serene landscapes.

💰 Earn $51K-$99K

📚 Bachelor Degree

⏱️ 12–24 MONTH TRAINING

📈 1.9% JOB GROWTH

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What You’ll Do

Operate television, video, or film camera to record images or scenes for television, video, or film productions.

Compose and frame each shot, applying the technical aspects of light, lenses, film, filters, and camera settings to achieve the effects sought by directors.
Operate television or motion picture cameras to record scenes for television broadcasts, advertising, or motion pictures.
Adjust positions and controls of cameras, printers, and related equipment to change focus, exposure, and lighting.
Confer with directors, sound and lighting technicians, electricians, and other crew members to discuss assignments and determine filming sequences, desired effects, camera movements, and lighting requirements.
Operate zoom lenses, changing images according to specifications and rehearsal instructions.

Scoop

Minimum Education

Bachelor Degree

Career Prospects

Good (Increasing by 1-5%)

Training Time

1 to 2 years

Job Openings

3,100 Annually

Median Earnings

$67,950 in California

$61,800 Nationally

$25K

$50K

$75K

$100K

$125K

$150K

$175K

$200K

$225K

$250K

Real Talk Reel

Want to see what it's like to be a Video & Film Camera Operator? We've curated a playlist for you to get a glimpse into a day in the life.

@micahhaley

@spicywasian

Best For You If...

YOU Like 💕

Being creative or artistic
Working with my hands

You are skilled in 💫

Active Listening
Critical Thinking
Monitoring
Reading Comprehension
Speaking
Writing

You value 🙏

Having support
Having freedom
Personal relationships

Deep Dive

Video & Film Camera Operator

Explore career pathways, key skills, and what each role has to offer.

Pathways to this Career

Learn about the education and training paths that can lead to this career — and what to expect from each one.

Bachelor's Degree

A bachelor's degree typically results in increased knowledge about a variety of academic subjects, specialized knowledge in a focused field of study, and is considered the foundational qualification for many careers.

🎓 College

⏱️ FINISH IN 4-5+ years

Associate's Degree

An associate's degree typically provides graduates with foundational knowledge and skills for entry-level jobs in the graduate's industry, or serves as a stepping stone towards further education.

🎓 College

⏱️ FINISH IN 2-3 years

Vocational School

A vocational school typically equips students with specialized skills and practical training in specific trades or occupations, enhancing their employability and providing direct pathways to relevant careers.

🎓 Skills-Focused

⏱️ FINISH IN 6 months - 2 years